DISCOVERY

As the runner-up in the mega-finals of Metavision’s Meri Aawaz Suno in 1996, Pritha Majumdar, doesn’t have to prove her potential as an upcoming singer. “I was so disappointed with myself for not coming out tops. But the very next day, I got a series of calls from all my friends congratulating me. Even Asha Bhosleji called and complimented me. It was very encouraging, and I never looked back after that,” she recollects.

As promised, Pritha got the opportunity of singing a couple of songs in Yash Chopra’s musical telefilm Humko Ishq Ne Mara, under the guidance of music director Aadesh Srivastava. “Meri Aawaz Suno was the best thing that happened to me. It helped in launching my career as a playback singer,” a shy and soft-spoken Pritha says. Humko Ishq Ne Mara was followed by more songs in the Hindi film Mehndi and the Bengali-Oriya bilingual, Satyam Shivam Sundaram, for music director Babul Bose. She has rendered the title tracks for serials like Khiladi, Saazish, Parchchaiyan and an alaap in Meerabai. Apart from this, she also sings in orchestras like Bandish which comprises only RK hits, and Mane Taari Yaad Satave in Gujarati. Recently, she also recorded a song with music director Bappi Lahiri for a Bengali film Shu Kher Thikana. But her priority will always be Hindi films, she asserts. “I think Hindi has a broader appeal than regional films. It is important to an artist that he or she reaches out to a bigger audience,” she says wisely.

The youngest in a family of music lovers, Pritha’s formal training in music started at the age of two. “My family was quick to notice my interest and always encouraged me in my efforts. They were so supportive when I was required to shift to Bombay,” she says gratefully.

“I have always wanted to become a playback singer. Luckily, Meri Aawaz Suno presented me with a splendid opportunity to prove myself. “People have been very good to me. Though I am not taking any music lessons right now, Kalyanjibhai and Mohinderjit Singhji always help me if I have any difficulties in my riyaaz. Pamela Chopraji, Sanjeev Kohliji and Aadesh Srivastavaji were extremely patient and understanding with me. I couldn’t have done anything without their help,” she confesses.

Pritha appreciates the support and trust that everyone has placed in her and is aware of the expectations from her. “The only way I can repay their kindness is by making a name for myself in this industry,” she concludes.