Ananya Sritam Nanda, who won the popular singing reality show Indian Idol Junior Season-II, has something we must learn from. Even after getting failure repeatedly at three attempts, the 14-year-old Odia girl did not leave her passion for music and kept practising. With that, she made herself stand out where she is now. She proved that if you have passion, you would definitely conquer one day with perseverance.
A 9th class student of the DAV Public School, Pokhariput in Bhubaneswar, Ananya dreams to become a space scientist in future. Her father Prasanna Nanda is a Director in the Industries Department of Odisha and mother Prashanti is a housewife.
In an interview with Ashadeep Mohanty of The Pioneer, trained classical singer Ananya speaks about her dedication to music, ambition, love for her mother tongue and much more.
Winner of Indian Idol Junior! How does it feelIJ
Actually, I had not expected to win the show. Because what I feel is expectation hurts a lot when it doesn't get fulfilled. And this was not even my first attempt. I had participated in the first season of the show in 2013. Apart from that, I had also taken part in the Sa Re Ga Ma Pa lil Champs in 2011 and 2014. Unfortunately I used to get eliminated at certain levels.
But I never stopped my hard work and practices. And by the grace of God and my parents and support from my all well-wishers, I emerged winner this time. I was completely surprised the moment I heard my name.
After this, you will get to have many offers in your hand. But you are only in 9th standard. So what’s your planIJ
Yes, you are absolutely right. Education is foremost important. So for now, I would fully focus on my studies. Exams are also nearing. And in case of offers, there is no hurry. I'm not going to do whatever comes on my way as it might hamper my studies. I'll accept if I get some good ones.
How the show has changed your lifeIJ
This show made me a versatile singer. Earlier, I used to sing only classical and semi-classical songs. Through the show, I learnt modern, rock, hip hop and other genres. Earlier, I was known by a very few people. After the show, so many people are calling up and congratulating me. So definitely, the show gave me much recognition and lots more confidence.
You started learning music at a tender age of 3. Was it your own or your parents’ wishIJ
Actually my elder sister was also good at singing. I used to sing along with her. It was then my parents noticed my singing skills and introduced me to Dr Nilamani Ojha. later on, I was trained under the tutelage of Hindustani classical exponent Pandit Dr Chittaranjan Pani.
What are your other areas of interestIJ
Besides music, I like dancing and playing harmonium. This apart, I also like to read books. I always crave for learning new things in life.
Who are your idols in music industryIJ
Shreya Ghosal and Arijit Singh are my favourites. I'm a diehard fan of them and it’s my dream to work with both of them. Their voice is truly amazing.
Given offers, would you like to sing for Odia music industryIJ
Yes, of course. I love my mother tongue. So definitely, if I get any opportunity ahead, I would love to sing for Odia music industry.
Would you take up singing as a profession in futureIJ
See, music is my passion. I wish to do playback for Bollywood music industry. Not only that, as I said, I would love to sing Odia songs also. But my dream is to become a space scientist. So if everything goes right and God blesses me, I'll definitely become a scientist someday.