Tryst with music
Music for me happened by chance considering the fact that none from my family was into it. I was barely six when my school teacher Ramachary, who also runs the very renowned Little Musicians Academy, could identify me as a potential singer and inspired me to learn music. In fact, that was the turning point in my life. Soon, I was a student at the academy, for which, SP Balasubhramanyam was the chief patron. Both Ramachary Sir and SP Sir have been responsible in shaping up my career. After learning the basics at the academy, I did a certificate course for four years in Hindustani Classical and then I was before you all.
The saga of struggle
I was in Mumbai in 2005 for Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. That was my first reality show, a fact not many know. I reached till Top 14 and then got disqualified. Since I had left my engineering studies in the final year to come to Mumbai, I was asked by my dad to come back and complete the course. After completing the course in 2006, my family gave me an ultimatum - try for a career in music for two years, if you fail, get an IT job back in Hyderabad ! Initial days were tough in Mumbai. I had no money so I ended up getting a trainee job in Wipro. Worked the whole week and spent weekends meeting music directors. Thankfully, Amul Star Voice of India happened and I reached the Top 4 and then concerts started for me.
Bollywood break
My first break came from Mukesh Bhatt that too because his wife used to watch VOI and had compelled him to hear me. I was out of VOI and the next day was in the office of Vishesh Films to record a song for Jannat. Unfortunately, due to script changes in the last moment, the song was never released. But God has been kind. My debut came with AR Rehman Sir in Raavan. Then, came the opportunity of working with Mithun Sir for Lamhaa. Dil Sambhal Jaa Zara was in fact a surprise for me. I keep recording songs for Mithun Sir and that was one song I had not even recorded in a big studio. It was a scratch version.
Suddenly, I got the news that the song will feature in Murder 2. I was expecting a final recording but the Bhatts liked the song as it is and the rest is history. Then came Oh My God with Himmesh Ji and Ajab Gazabb Love with Sajid-Wajid. The film didn’t do well but my song Sun Soniye was very popular.
Odisha connection
I have done shows all over including many places abroad like Africa, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuwait, Abu Dhabi, Sri Lanka and Burma. But honestly, I love performing in Odisha where I have been coming for the last five years thanks to my connection with Enterten Events. The crowd here, particularly the college people love music and are very open about their appreciation. In fact, I have also sung quite a few Odia songs including the very hit album song Re Mana and two more for a couple of films.
Future ventures
When Jo Jeeta Wohi Superstar 2 happened this year, I was not even sure I want to participate but I did and also won the title. So, you never know what destiny has in store for you but yes I am sure I want to become a playback singer people would remember for all times to come. There are some good movies coming up in 2013 for which I am recording songs at the moment. This apart, songs down South are also in store. I have also composed music for a Hyderabadi Hindi film whose audio will be releasing next month. I can just thank God for his blessings and continue to work hard. Amen!