“I Just Wish To Sing”, Says State Awardee Aseema Panda

“I Just Wish To Sing”, Says State Awardee Aseema Panda

Ollywood has a long list of singers who have managed to carve a name for them and make their way to the hearts of listeners. State Award recipient, singer Aseema Panda is one such heartthrob who won her way to the listener’s hearts via her versatility.

Known for her popular hits like ‘Nadia Tela’ and ‘Haladi Gina’, Aseema has become one of the most popular singers of Ollywood with songs in more than 80 films to her credit in 14-15 years of her career. Her versatility reflects in the variety of genre she picks – from Bhajan and Sambalpuri folk tunes to dance beats and romantic numbers. Her online presence on YouTube because of the studio versions of her songs has made her a well-known celebrity in the virtual world as well.

The young scion from Dhenkanal lives with her family in Cuttack. Her recent achievement – the Best Singer trophy for the film ‘Mun Khanti Odia Jhia’ has added more to her stardom.

My City Links had an exclusive interaction with the singer. Excerpts:

Did You Ever Plan On Winning A State Award?

No, I did not. I was always inclined to sing professionally. However, I had no such plan of winning the State Award. I just wished to sing and make a career as a singer.

Tell Us About Your Journey. Who Is Your Guru?

Guru Prafulla Kumar Sahoo used to teach music to my cousins when I was only four years old. I used to watch them practice. My father noticed my interest in singing when I’d recite those notes in front of him every night. So, he took me to him and  requested to train me. I was studying in the first grade when I performed for the first time in school. I was learning Odissi music from Prafulla sir which I followed up with Hindustani music from Guru Artatrana Bhola.

I performed for a singing show on television when I was in the third grade. Veteran music director and singer Manmath Mishra saw me there and noticed me yet again at another competition some three years later. He offered me an Odia Bhajan song which we recorded at Sarthak’s studio. I was doing my intermediate when while singing for a show on OTV, I received the offer to sing for the film ‘Bande Utkal Janani’ from music director Sarat Nayak.

Whom Will You Give The Credit For Your Success?

I believe it’s because of the blessings of the Almighty. I always obey my parents, especially my father, who even guides me in choosing right songs. The credit goes to my parents. My whole family is very supportive.

Who Do You Share The Best Rapport With?

I share a good relationship with all the singers. I have a good rapport with Tarique Aziz, Satyajit Pradhan, Bishnu Mohan Kabi and now with Mantu Chhuria. Mantu and I have the same thought process, so work becomes easier.

Rumour Has It That You Will Feature In A Small Role in ‘Maa lMahu Jibana Mati’. Tell Us More?

I am doing a guest appearance in the film. About offers to act in films, I am used to getting regular offers from different production houses and directors. But I refuse because I am not interested in acting.

You Featured In The Video Of Your Song ‘Prema Ra Adhei Akhyara’ on Your YouTube Channel. Will The Audience Get To See You In More Such Videos?

I have sung a Kawali song for the film ‘Chirkut’ and I’ll feature in it. The song was in very high pitch and was composed for a male singer. The change in sequence of the film led Papu Bhai (Papu Pam Pam) to offer me the song. He also approached me to feature in it. I liked the lyrics and hence, agreed. I don’t get sufficient time to work for my own channel. I would love to continue doing more such songs and videos in future whenever I get time.

If Not A Singer, What Would You Be?

I know nothing except singing, so I can’t do anything else. Had I not been a singer, I might have been eating and sleeping at home, because I don’t like to work hard. Singing is my passion. The work I do for it gives me satisfaction.

How Is Regular Girl Aseema Different From Celebrity Aseema?

I began singing while I was in school which made me famous there. While in college, I sang for films which earned me name and fame. I am habituated already with this. Hence, it doesn’t make much difference.

What Genres Do You Like The Most?

I love Bhajans. I spend 17-20 hours per day for music. I can be seen either taking rest or meditating in my free time.

Who Are The Singers You Idolise?

In Ollywood, I admire singers like Ira Mohanty, Trupti Das, Nirmala Mishra and Gita Das and in Bollywood almost all the singers including legends like Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle.

Do You Have Plans To Work In Mumbai?

I thought of trying my luck in Mumbai someday. But I can’t leave the Odia music industry at this point. I am packed with work here and the audience love me.

Any Fan Moment?

My shows have always had at least five thousand people. I receive paintings of mine from my fans regularly; my home is full of such paintings now.

Recently Singer Human Sagar Joined BJD. Have You Thought Of Aligning Yourself With A Political Party?

I did receive a few offers. But it’d be a no from my side for political campaign or politics because I am not interested.

What Are Your Future Plans?

I plan to just sing (chuckles). I wish to recreate our Odia traditional music like Chhanda, Champu and Odishi, as we are forgetting them with time. I want to establish a music production house, where musicians would be free to work in their own way. Our focus would be on making good songs, based upon the taste of Odia people.

Any Message For The Newcomers?

They should have the courage to work hard. Earlier, it was tough for us to reach out to listeners. These days, they have better platforms to showcase their talent.