Saturday, November 9, 2024

Singing for Sanjay Leela Bhansali was the ‘pinnacle of honour’

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Singer-composer Sharmistha Chatterjee, who has recently lent her voice to Heeramandi’s Tilasmi Bahein, speaks to The Pioneer about being a part of the composition, working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and more.

Subodhini Purohit
Sharmistha Chatterjee’s journey is as mesmerising as her voice. Breaking barriers and making history as the first Indian lead singer at Coke Studio Pakistan with the Mekaal Hasan Band in 2015 showcased her exceptional talent and ability to transcend borders with her music. Her enchanting performance in Tilasmi Bahein for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Netflix series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar has already captivated audiences once again, showcasing her ability to weave emotions into each note with her melodies. Her contribution to the music world is truly remarkable!
Heeramandi differs from her other ventures in the industry, as she shares, “Singing for Sanjay Leela Bhansali in the film industry was the pinnacle of honour and excitement for me. It fulfilled every artist’s dream I had ever imagined. Providing my voice for the song was an extraordinary opportunity, especially considering Bhansali’s reputation as a magician when crafting popular Bollywood film songs. The experience was overwhelming, and I am deeply grateful for this unique opportunity bestowed upon me. Collaborating with such a renowned filmmaker added an extra layer of significance to my artistic journey too. It’s a moment I will forever cherish, knowing that my voice will be immortalised in his cinematic creation.”
Songs certainly bring out the character’s emotions, and the same goes with Sonakshi Sinha’s character in Heeramandi and this song for her. She explains, “When I entered the recording studio, I was briefed on the essence of the song and the emotions it demanded. The instructions emphasised the delicate balance of femininity and the subtle power that needed to be infused into the performance! Although the storyline remained undisclosed, I was given a vivid portrayal of the character and the specific emotions to convey through my voice. It was a collaborative effort to envision how each note should resonate with the intended feelings. The guidance provided a framework for me to imagine the essence of the song and embody it in my performance. Despite the mystery surrounding the storyline, the clarity of the character’s emotions allowed me to channel the required attitude and depth into the rendition. It was a process of artistic interpretation and expression, guided by the vision and direction provided.”
“The song itself was a breathtaking composition,” shares the talented singer, adding, “and working with Sanjay sir, known for his meticulous attention to detail, was both exhilarating and daunting. His perfectionist approach ensured that every aspect, from the lyrics to the vocals to the composition, was meticulously crafted. Throughout my journey as a vocalist, exploring various styles and genres proved invaluable for this particular song. Its fusion of jazz and world music elements added an intriguing dimension that captivated me from the start. Each word of the song carried an enchanting quality, making the listening experience not only pleasing but also deeply compelling. Being entrusted with the vocals of such a meticulously crafted piece was both an honour and a thrilling challenge, pushing me to deliver my best performance yet.” The song she shared had a profound focus on bringing out the inner power of femininity within the character. The lyrics resonated with themes of self-discovery and embracing the hidden aspects within oneself. It transcended conventional boundaries, allowing listeners to connect deeply with the emotions of femininity on a profound level. Collaborating on such a transformative piece was an experience that stretched her artistic boundaries and left a lasting impact on my understanding of feminine empowerment.
Hindustani classical and voice intertwine to create harmony, and as an artist, she goes beyond her limit and explores various genres.  “Viewing my voice as an instrument stems from my foundation in Hindustani classical music, where I was immersed in a fusion of diverse light classical forms such as Ghazals and Dadra, complemented by instruments like the Sitar, Sundari, and Bansuri. This rich musical heritage also draws influences from Arab and Persian traditions. Embracing my voice as an instrument allows me to explore a vast array of genres, blending my classical training with contemporary styles. Each genre becomes a unique celebration of joy, reflecting the specialised expertise inherent in its approach. As an artist, I perceive learning as an ongoing journey, forever a student, constantly evolving and refining my craft to embrace the endless possibilities of musical expression.”
She doesn’t dwell much on meeting others’ expectations; instead, “I focus intently on staying true to my own style. Fortunately, I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with individuals who appreciate the uniqueness of my vocals, even in challenging genres. Each opportunity, including those that demand raising my voice, contributes to the evolution of my distinct style, influenced by a mosaic of experiences across various genres and recordings. When I step into the studio, I surrender completely to the vision of the music director, a process that often results in remarkable transformations, particularly evident in the Heeramandi series. As for authenticity, it’s not something challenged by these collaborations; rather, they enhance it. Anything that resonates with people must stem from the heart, embodying sincerity and honesty.”
She further adds, “When modulating my voice for a song, I strive to remain true to myself, ensuring that my authentic self shines through. Fortunately, maintaining authenticity hasn’t posed challenges, as directors have embraced my unique style, fostering fruitful collaborations based on mutual respect and appreciation. Being the first Indian at Coke Studio Pakistan stands out as a heartfelt moment of joy in my career.” Sharmistha Chatterjee is all set for her upcoming ventures into exciting collaborations and independent music projects. Alongside this, she is also nurturing a dedicated fan base through her independent music endeavours. “With a band by my side, we’re striving to infuse our performances with a unique fusion of traditional and modern sounds, captivating audiences with our distinctive style.” She signs off on a brighter note!

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