Paushali Sahu
Singer and Performer
Classical training helps to achieve technical mastery, but the ability to touch the hearts of the audience is a divine gift.
You are highly educated and hold many qualifications. Tell us how you got into music from a solid corporate career?
Born into a Bengali family, music was a part of my very existence. I began my music training with Rabindra Sangeet, Nazrul-geeti, and Bengali songs by Manna Dey, Lata Mangeshkar, Hemant Mukherjee, and others. I learned music primarily from my grandmother and mother, who were trained from stalwarts like Pandit Gyan Prakash Ghosh and Neeta Sen respectively. Later on, I have taken Hindustani classical training. However, study and work took precedence since graduation, and there was a little hiatus. Bombay’s demanding work environment, along with oppressively long commutes, saps creativity and passion. Only during lockdown did I comprehend the importance of this one life and the one passion that keeps me alive. During this time, I concentrated on music, and my singing landed me several appearances on music shows, interviews, and media outlets. The love and appreciation was beyond encouraging. That is when I resolved to devote my entire time to music.
Which was your first song which gave you recognition as a singer?
I believe in the adage that the best is yet to come. Having saying that, naming just one song is challenging. My renditions of Old Hindi songs garnered me acclaim and love over time. My newly released originals have received a lot of positive feedback, and I am excited to make some more.
Tell us how different is a career in music Vs a career in Banking Finance industry- from your personal experience?
With a certain set of qualifications, a career in BFSI is relatively conventional in terms of an individual’s growth path. Over time, success is attainable with enough effort, dedication, and applicable experience. Additionally, receiving a paycheck each month keeps you confident. A formula or set procedure cannot, however, ensure success in the sphere of performing arts, such as music. Our nation has a wealth of talent, yet only a small percentage of the country’s million musicians achieve their goals. Because of the internet, anyone may now publish their own songs, greatly democratizing the music industry. Even then, neither fame nor success are assured by that. It is a journey you undertake for the love of music alone.
Your singles are very well appreciated by the audience. Which is your own favorite single?
Like I said, I believe the best is yet to come. The first song you make is special though. My debut original solo, ‘Haule Haule Piya’, will always retain a special place in my heart.
What is the significance of struggle period in your professional career in the field of music?
Struggle period in BFSI is moderately predictable. It is usually a fixed growth curve with relevant experience and educational qualifications. Unless the economy is hit by a recession, job layoffs, or other unfortunate turmoil, initial years of struggle can lead to a comfortable career. In the sphere of music, however, the model is completely unpredictable. The struggle phase could be indefinite or brief based on a variety of things besides talent, the most important of which I feel is fate.
In the Music Industry, one has to face a lot of criticism also, what is your experience? How do you deal with it?
Criticism exists in every profession, and I believe it should be viewed as constructive feedback and a means of improving one’s learning. There is criticism and politics in the corporate world that one must be aware of and fight through. Similarly, with the stiff competition and shifting landscape of music, there are analogous difficulties in the music industry. An artist must mature emotionally and remain rooted in order to build strength in the face of adversity. It is critical to maintain contact with friends, family, and real admirers.
What is your message to upcoming singing talents who are participating in reality shows?
I don’t think I am equipped to answer this question as a singer because I have never been on a reality show. However, as a watcher and music fan, I would want to add my two cents. Music created only for the love of music will stand the test of time. Songs from the golden era are still popular today. ‘Kahin duur jab din dhal jaaye’ – will be with us and after we are gone. Create music that will outlive you once you achieve fame and the power that comes with it. Instead of following trends, start your own.
Do you love to sing classical songs? In comparison to conventional Bollywood singing, how tough is it to sing a classical song?
I enjoy singing semi-classical music, and doing so is a learning experience for me. During her show, Kaushiki Chakraborty ji had once stated that Lata Mangeshkar ji could elicit all of the emotions of an hour-long classical concert with a 3-minute-long Hindi film song! Aside from the fundamentals of sur and taal, film songs include several characteristics that a performer must keep in mind. Classical training helps to achieve technical mastery, but the ability to touch the hearts of the audience is a divine gift. A talented vocalist is one who can do so in any genre that he/she enjoys performing. It is only fair not to compare the ease with which classical songs vs. film songs can be sung.
Who is your favorite music composer and why?
Salil Choudhury, Hemanta Mukherjee, SD Burman, Naushad, Khayyam, Madan Mohan, Hridaynath Mangeshkar are my favorite composers besides Rabindranath Tagore. It’s difficult to put into words, why I enjoy their music. Their compositions can elicit every emotion that the human heart can feel. Their creations are filled with so much truth. One lifetime is not enough to listen to all of the timeless music they have left behind. In present times, I follow the music of AR Rahman and Amit Trivedi.
In your professional career of music, who is your biggest supporter?
My father was my biggest supporter, but he is no longer with us. I know dad is watching over me and blessing me to fulfill his dreams and mine.
Is ‘Paushali’ introvert or extrovert by nature?
I don’t think I fit into either category. I could give different impressions to different people. Having said that, I am really happy in my close group of friends and family. I also enjoy meeting new people and bonding over shared interests.
You are always fit and energetic. What is the secret behind your fitness?
I keep my weight under control with the help of a healthy diet and regular walks. I consciously avoid junk food. But I am not as fit or energetic as I would like to be. I am working on it. The best version of me is in the works.
What is your message for your fans?
I would want to take this platform to thank all of my supporters and well-wishers. I consider myself extremely fortunate to have them at my side through my highs and lows. I couldn’t ask for anything more.
Which music composer is it your dream to work with?
Salil Choudhury, through some time machine. Jokes aside, it would be a dream come true for me to be able to render my voice to one of AR Rahman’s compositions.
