A Chat With Nandita

So, Nandita! Could you tell us about how you gained popularity amongst your fans?

I gained popularity at first by participating in the reality singing show, Bangladeshi Idol in 2013. I was ranked seventh in the competition. From there onwards, I started to get recognition.

Who have you been mentored by in your journey as a singer?

Primarily, I was taught by ustad Dilip Majumdar. I was also tutored by the late Gouranga Chandra Karmakar, Ashok Dey, Rituraj Sen, Sujit Mustafa and Prithviraj Bouddha.

What was the first song that you played using a harmonium?

With the help of my mother, the first song I was able to play using a harmonium was "Amader Deshta Shopnopuri". It was a rather joyous experience!

Tell us about the singers from whom you derive inspiration.

Well, I am highly inspired by Shakila Zafar's unique style of singing. I am also inspired by Sandhya Mukherjee, Pratima Banerjee and Haimanti Sukla to name a few.

Do you pursue yourself as a singer only?

I like to think of myself as a singer. Even though I have been hosting a TV program for a channel for the last two years, I would prefer to be acknowledged as a vocalist as singing is my true passion.

Which would you consider as significant songs you have voiced so far?

The vital songs of my career would be the songs I have sung in Ahmed Imtiaz Bulbul sir's album "Ruposhi Bangla" and Prince Mahmud's album "Kheyal Poka". I have also voiced a song for The Daily Star's Celebrating Life initiative. 

What about your experience as a playback singer for movies?

My first venture as a playback singer was in a movie titled "Bhalobashar Golpo". Later, I sang "Ayna Bolna" for the film "Ostitho", which was well appreciated by the audience. I am looking forward to more opportunities.

What are your aspirations regarding your musical career?

I consider it an immense success that I had the opportunity to work with Ahmed Imtiaz Bulbul sir and Prince Mahmud.  I am rather ambitious about signing songs that were written and tuned by Nachiketa sir. I also have a dream to sing with the famous A. R. Rahman, you never know, it may come true one day. 

Interviewed by Zahid Akbar and Narrated by Minam Haque