IF YOU HAVE been humming Kis Raste Hai Jaana with Kangana Ranaut from the film Judgementall Hai Kya, you are lip-syncing Surabhi Dashputra. The Birmingham-based singer-lyricist who is known for creating jingles and giving lyrics to songs in films like Calapore and Titoo MBA is ecstatic about her major Bollywood release last week. The kathak and sitar exponent talks about her latest single, Laage Nahi Mann, with singer-music composer Arjuna Harjai. Excerpts:
Did you know that Kangana would be singing the song in the film?
To be honest, I wasn’t aware that the song would be picturised on Kangana until a week or so before the release. I was overjoyed when I heard it.
The song is a soft one, is that your forte?
Given that it was a situa tional song, it demanded that the emotions be conveyed without overpowering the narrative and be in sync. It is a very fine balance between what you are capable of as a singer and what is needed for the song. As far as my forte is concerned, I wouldn’t limit my singing to just a handful of specialities. I believe that I can do justice to any composition, irrespective of my forte.
Tell us about your latest single with Arjuna Harjai.
Arjuna Harjai and I have known each other for the past 13 years and have worked on various projects given that we complement each other when it comes to our musical repertoire. Laage Nahi Mann, our latest single, is a YouTube original where Arjuna is seen with Shruti Prakash and has also composed the music for this single. I have been fortunate to pen the lyrics for this song which has had a tremendous reception worldwide, with more than a million views and counting. This is a very romantic song picturised in Manali. The song has a very relaxing feel to it with a tune which grows on you every time you hear it.
Who else are you looking forward to collaborating with?
I am currently working with some UK based artistes and am also in talks with few Mumbai-based artists for future collaborations.
What kind of songs are you looking forward to sing?
I am open to any composition which would bring out the best in me and challenge me. I prefer Sufi songs as they have a mystical element to them and help you connect with your inner self and a higher power.
Who are your favourite playback singers?
From the golden era, I have always been a big fan of Lataji, Mohammed Rafi and Suresh Wadkar. From the current lot, Arjit is a very versatile singer who does justice to every composition he renders. Neeti Mohan is again a very well accomplished singer who has a very unique style of singing. Last but not least, Arjuna is someone who can make singing any difficult composition look effortless and is very soulful.
Any other Bollywood projects happening?
I am working on a few Bollywood projects which are in their nascent stages. Her new single drops on Youtube at the end of the month.