INTERVIEW

With hits like “Ishq Karenge”, “Naina”, “Ambarsariya”, “Jiya Lage Na”, “Bedardi Raja”, and “Daav Laga” among others, Sona Mohapatra has become a celebrated name in Bollywood. Her energy on stage is infectious and she can easily make you groove to her tunes. She speaks to Guardian 20 and shares her insights on how an outsider can enter the music industry in Bollywood and about the importance of training as a professional singer.

Q: You came into Bollywood from a non- musical background and still made a name for yourself in the industry. Can you tell us how a newcomer should pave one’s way in the Bollywood music industry? A.

It is required that an interested person should make a great demo which should clearly demonstrate the abilities of the person in the vocals. One can also meet up with people you want to collaborate with. Having said that, I am of the opinion that music can’t be restricted to get that so called big break in Bollywood. I think having the internet has been the boon for an artist like me. I have counted a lot on the internet as an ally where I constantly kept on putting on stuff with or without a big release plan. So my audience has been always in touch with me via my music on a daily basis.

Q. Talking about riyaz, how important is riyaz for a singer? A.

Riyaz is very critical; even if a singer gets an hour to practice it should not be missed. You owe a wonderful rendition to your audience.

Q. At what age did you start training? A:

I remember going to a music class at seven. My parents are both aficionadas of music. While they didn’t sing or perform there was still a great environment of music at home. My mother believed that we should train in music so I, along with my two sisters, was trained in Hindustani classical music. Later on you develop your own style and taste but my initial cultural foundation was established early on. And I never planned to become a classical singer.

Q. Which singers do you admire the most? A.

I admire singers with soul, singers who have the ability to tell you a story. Girija Devi, Nina Simone, Sting and now have grown to appreciate Lata ji. She is an encyclopedia of fine singing. You can’t have a list without Lata Mangeshkar. She used to do 90% of the work for the actors. I also admire performers who add many layers to a song.

“I remember going to a music class at seven. My parents are both aficionadas of music. While they didn’t sing or perform there was still a great environment of music at home. My mother believed that we should train in music so I, along with my two sisters, was trained in Hindustani classical music. Later on you develop your own style and taste but my initial cultural foundation was established early on. And I never planned to become a classical singer.”

Q. Which songs are there on your playlist nowadays? A.

I listen to the desi music but of late I am listening to a lot of jazz. I have always heard appreciation about jazz and blues from other sources particularly blues due to the storytelling it includes. So now-