Sunday Edition

Talktime

Pioneer

Sonu Kakkar

She made the nation swoon to Babuji Zara Dheere Chalo and gave hits like Aali Re Saali Re and Yeh Kasoor Mera. Kakkar is soon going to launch her band, her singles and will feature in Coke Studio Season 3. She talks about her plans with SANGEETA YADAV

‘Eventful journey’

From Babuji to Mahi Bin, how has the journey beenIJ

When I got my first Bollywood break with Babuji Zara Dheere Chalo, I was on cloud nine, all thanks to Sandeep Chowta who composed for the film. Aali Re Saali Re from No One Killed Jessica and Yeh Kasoor Mera from Jism were big hits too. But Madari, from Coke Studio 2, is a milestone in my career and is close to my heart. I also bagged MTV Video Music Awards India for most popular Indi artist female for Mahi Bin from my album Heer.

How was your association with Coke StudioIJ

Ever since Coke Studio started in 2011, I was desperate to be a part of it. When I got a call for Season 2, I just grabbed the opportunity. Madari became quite popular and had over a million hits on YouTube. The response I got from listeners was tremendous and unexpected.

You are making a comeback in Coke Studio Season 3...

This season, the song is Aisi Bani which starts off with Kabir’s doha.

Is it true that singers don’t get true credit in BollywoodIJ

Nowadays, the scenario is getting better as we have a lot of platforms like music awards, channels, shows & live performances.

What are the changes you’ve seen in music industryIJ

Things have become very instant and there is no fixed rule or formula for success. The industry is always in search of a new voice and platforms like Indian Idol and SaReGaMaPa come in handy.

Don’t you feel insecure with the rising competitionIJ

I take competition in a good spirit as it pushes me to do my best.

What are your upcoming plansIJ

I’ll be soon releasing my singles on a sufi track. The audio has been wrapped up, we will start shooting the video soon.

Who is your best criticIJ

My brother Tony Kakkar who is a music composer and singer.