Maniesh Paul on singing in Punjabi: It was easy; I’m a Dilli ka munda

Actor Maniesh Paul has always been a favourite with viewers and Bollywood actors alike, thanks to his quick wit and humour. He has hosted many award functions and television shows, such as Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa and India’s Got Talent, and has also been seen in films such as Baa Baaa Black Sheep and Mickey Virus (2013).

After recording his first ever single, Harjai, with model-actor Iulia Vantur earlier this year, Maniesh has now released his first Punjabi single, titled Munde Town De, in collaboration with UKbased singer and music producer PBN (Punjabi By Nature). Excited about the same, Maniesh tells how it all came together.

“I am passionate about singing. Earlier, it was a hobby, but when your hobby turns into your profession, that, I think, is the best thing that can happen to anybody. My elder brother, Vivek, knew about my love for singing, and we both are fans of PNB. So, he said, ‘Why not collaborate?’ That’s how it happened. They met first and decided what all has to be done. When the song came, I really liked it,” says Maniesh, for whom singing in Punjabi wasn’t an issue at all.

“It was very easy, as I am a hardcore Punjabi... Dilli ka munda. The moment I heard the title Munde Town De, I said this is the song,” adds the actor, who was born and brought up in Delhi.

Apart from music, Maniesh has a lot on his plate right now. “I’m busy with the song’s promotions, and recently finished working on a short film for my production house. There’s also a feature film, which is in post-production. Then I leave for the concert with Salman Khan in June,” he shares.

How does he ensure that, among all this, he’s able to take out time for his family? “I think God is kind. I never thought I’ll do this much work. Whenever I get time for whatever, I do that. During my tours, too, we’re working on songs, and once that leg of the concert is over, we work on that. My family knows I love my work; whatever I am and whatever we have till now is because of it. But I also make it a point to take them for holidays, like recently, when I took a leave for 15 days, I did not attend to calls and messages on my phone,” he says.

PHOTO: SHIVAM SAXENA/HT TV host and actor Maniesh Paul’s first Punjabi single is titled Munde Town De