How did your musical journey begin?
I was born and raised in the Middle East in Doha, and singing has been in the family on both sides. When I was four years old, I began learning Carnatic music, since then music has always been a constant. During my college days, I was part of a band called Staccato, where we used to do shows together. Eventually, when I started working I managed to do shows on the weekends. After a point, work got incredibly hectic and it was taking a toll on me. I then decided to quit my job and thankfully along the same time, I got a call to audition for my debut song ‘Oru Paadhi Kadhavu’ from Thaandavam. What looked like an overnight thing was actually about five to six years of work that culminated in my debut. This kind of snowballed and it turned into my film debut. I also got a great opportunity to perform at the London Olympics with Staccato and team.
Tell us about the song that gave you a break?
My film debut ‘Oru Paadhi Kadhavu’ definitely gave me a lot of mileage. Also, when I ask a lot of people unanimously, it would undoubtedly be ‘Koodamela Koodavechi’. My debut song from `Thaandavam’, launched me as a playback singer while the one from ‘Rummy’ cemented that belief. Even though it’s been five years since the release of the song and despite several other releases, ‘Koodamela Koodavechi’ is more like a mandate in all my concerts. If I fail to put it in my list, it will certainly come as a request from the audience. That song really gave me a whole new identity.
Have you felt dejected while you were trying too hard for a break?
Yes, multiple times. I would be lying if I said no. There have been times when I have felt low. Although the highs are so glamorous, the lows are just as devastating. What happens to a lot of people is that they get carried away. Also, it’s important to be surrounded by people you really trust and have the best of intentions for you and are ready to put up with you in all your highs and lows. I have dealt with dejection several times and I have wanted to pack my bags and just kind of wind up overnight. But at the same time, I always used to console myself that I have chosen something that’s difficult and I’m responsible for it. Above all, I had a solid support system that I could turn to during difficult situations.
Your advice for budding singers?
Do not be consumed at the idea of fame because that should be secondary. Enjoying the art of making music is more significant and everything else is a bi-product and there is no guarantee that any of it will last. If you’re looking for fame and money, there are other ways to get there but don’t use music as a channel for that.•
