Who was your main inspiration while growing up?
I have always been passionate about music. It was something that I was drawn to from a very early age. My family was an immense inspiration. I remember my mother used to look up singing competitions in the paper and would put my name. My family was certainly a great support. If I have to say which artiste was a major inspiration, then it would have to be Lata Mangeshkar. The way she presented the songs, the tunes, her voice, it was like no other. Another main inspiration was Asha Bhosle.
What do you consider one of your more memorable moments?
For the movie ‘Geet Gata Chal’, the song ‘Shyam teri bansi’ was very well received and I got positive responses and I also very much enjoyed singing the film’s other songs like ‘Kar gaya Kanha’, ‘Main wohi darpan wohi’. ‘Geet Gaata Chal’, by Rajshri Productions was certainly an enjoyable experience. I remember after that, I went to England. Not only were the songs played on BBC, but I performed in the Royal Albert Hall in 1977. The crowd in attendance knew my songs very well, and to perform there, with the presence of so many respected people, it was an unforgettable experience. It was the admiration of the songs that lead to this performance. I remember that during the programme, I was given 45 minutes extra for my performance. Then in 2000, performing in Madison Square Garden was also an amazing experience.
What advise would you give to individuals who would want to follow the same career path?
The advise that I would give is that one should certainly look for inspirations. Support from family and friends are definitely important. It is also crucial to have a ‘guru’ who can teach properly, and one should also follow and respect their ‘guru’. Literature always plays a role towards music and inspiration. Listening to music is important and by music, it should not just be restricted to vocal music but also instrumental. Many people may find inspirations from many different things. It has to come from within. l
Photo: Arif nur