Younger musicians eager to master all aspects of the craft, will help Malayalam music industry flourish: Sithara Krishnakumar | Music News

In an exclusive interview with indianexpress.com, Sithara reveals her passion for music, her love for dance, her bonding with her fans, and why she thinks there is a promising future in store for the Malayalam music industry.

How has your exploration of ghazal, Carnatic and Hindi music changed you as a singer and music director?

Sithara: I did not actively select this career; it’s more like this profession selected me. We don’t have the power to simply opt to be a full-time musician. We can, however, make the choice to become a music student and devote our time to honing our musical skills through practice. Becoming a professional musician is not a decision we can make outright; it’s a path that unfolds over time. Fortunately, I had the opportunity to be part of an industry that is highly esteemed in this region. Through this, I established connections with many individuals. I leveraged the recognition I gained there to pursue my own music independently.

As a judge on numerous music reality shows, what are your thoughts and insights regarding the prospects and potential developments within the Malayalam music industry?

Sithara: In my view, younger generations are approaching the music industry with a strong sense of enthusiasm and dedication. They are not merely aspiring to be playback singers for a few movies; instead, they are deeply committed to music production and becoming accomplished musicians. They are eager to master every aspect of the craft, which is truly commendable. Music has thrived in the past, continues to flourish in the present, and undoubtedly holds promise for the future. This represents a significant advancement within the Malayalam music industry.

The trend of including a song simply for the sake of it has reduced in the Malayalam film industry. Most of the songs in the latest movies are integral to the story. There is also an ongoing discussion about the reduced number of songs in contemporary films. What is your take?

Sithara: Indeed, filmmaking has undergone significant transformations over the years, and these changes have naturally influenced the realm of music. Nowadays, music plays an integral role in the storytelling of films. These shifts have occurred in tandem with the evolving landscape of the entire music industry.

Can we expect to see more of you as a music director in the Malayalam film industry?

Sithara: The role of a music director or composer carries significant weight and entails substantial responsibility, making it challenging for me to manage.

How does performing live in front of an audience make you feel? Does the direct feedback and audience energy impact your performance and your connection to the music?

Sithara: I am constantly anxious. The initial step onto the stage always triggers a sense of fear within me. I still feel like that four-year-old child who first stepped onto the stage. Thus, stage fright continues to haunt me. I experience a blend of emotions, including anticipation, sentiment, enthusiasm, and apprehension. However, the audience’s reaction only serves to bolster my self-assurance.

Can you share your perspective on the criticism surrounding the creation of cover versions of old Malayalam songs?

Sithara: We strive to preserve their core, making an effort not to diminish their intrinsic qualities, as they represent another person’s concept, significance, and viewpoint. I create cover songs because perhaps, somewhere, we adore a particular track to such an extent that it inspires us to craft our rendition.

In your various roles as a dancer, music director, anchor, and actor, which role do you find most challenging, and which one would you like to explore further?

Sithara: As a music student and a dance student, I have been receiving training since the age of 4. I pursued both with equal importance. However, after my 10th standard, I could not find as many opportunities in dance, particularly classical dance, which was partly my fault. I had more opportunities in music, which tempted me to focus more on it, shifting the ratio. Initially, they were equal, but things changed. It is disheartening for me to admit this because I have always loved dancing, and I still do. I used to practice for more than 6-7 hours, but now I struggle to find the time to practice as I used to. So, I don’t think I can do a 1- or 2-hour concert, but I create short videos to satisfy my urge to dance. The idea of prioritising music over dance and not being able to give equal importance to both is more challenging. I want to explore the possibility of pursuing both simultaneously.

Could you share some insights into your experience singing peppy numbers? (Sithara sang ‘Sami Sami’ from Pushpa in Malayalam)

Sithara: Playback singing can be likened to vocal acting, where we aim to sing in accordance with the expectations and intentions of various collaborators, such as the director, music directors, lyricists, and the film crew. Typically, they provide us with detailed guidance, and we essentially serve as a conduit for conveying the precise emotions and message within a song.

Kerala has seen a surge in indie music festivals. Your thoughts?

Sithara: Certainly, indie music festivals in Kerala have experienced a notable upswing in recent times, creating a captivating atmosphere. Renowned bands such as ‘Thaikkudam Bridge’ and ‘Avial’ have achieved legendary status. This transformation in the listening culture has led young enthusiasts to delve into diverse music genres. Consequently, music festivals are thriving in the region.

A few years ago, you had hit back at racist and body-shaming remarks on social media. Could you share your thoughts on celebrities’ online presence and how people’s reactions affect you?

Sithara: The post did not pertain to a specific event or message on my Facebook; it was merely a spontaneous reaction. People often mistake our identity when we are dressed up and wearing makeup, assuming we are someone else or playing a character. However, when we are at home, we prefer to be in our comfort zone. Consequently, they speculated that something was amiss with me. I encountered the post upon returning from an event and was astounded when I saw it. I subsequently responded to the post. That is the gist of it.