“It’s an honour to find and nurture the next wave of Indian talent” says Indian Idol Season 14 judge, Shreya Ghoshal

"Ek Awaaz, Laakhon Ehsaas," the captivating theme of Indian Idol Season 14 puts the spotlight on magical voices that have the profound potential to evoke a wide range of emotions in the heart of the viewer. In the newest edition of the singing reality show, singer-par-excellence and National Award winner Shreya Ghoshal will be seen gracing the judging panel, alongside Kumar Sanu and Vishal Dadlani. In a candid conversation, Shreya shares her excitement for this season, and her journey in the music industry.

How has your journey as a singer been so far?
Honestly, I never thought I'd reach the stage where I am today. I am someone who never plans and my journey in the music industry was no different. I encountered some exceptional mentors along the way, and my journey found its path. It was blissful and beautiful, and I consider myself fortunate to have had the opportunity to sing and be the artist that I desired to be. I am so that happy that I got to work with the country's finest singers, musicians, and composers.

Share something about the awards you received.
Whenever an award comes my way, I believe it occurs at an unexpected time. I don't expect that the song I sang will be on the list of award entries, but when it does, it feels motivating and pushes me to work harder and do more such award-winning projects.

How important is it to learn classical music?
If you are an Indian vocalist and are attempting to perform Indian music, start with classical music to lay the groundwork for your improvisation and to ensure that it is executed flawlessly. Music is the most nuanced kind of art, and it requires a lot of work to excel in Bollywood, jazz, or any other type of music. However, Indian classical music is comparable to an advanced music lesson that will help you improve, but you must truly put your heart into it. Even so, I wholeheartedly concur that everyone should give music a try before making it a practice in life.

What keeps you busy other than singing?
When you are a professional vocalist, it means that your entire life is devoted to singing and recording. But now, I make time for my son, as he is my current priority. Having a child is my most treasured accomplishment to date.

6) You are the winner of many awards. Which is closest to your heart?

When a national award is revealed, there is unquestionably great delight. Receiving that honor is every artist's greatest ambition since they have worked so hard all day to be recognized by the jury and the government. The same applies not just to the Hindi industry but to other regional film and entertainment industries as well. And when you are picked among them, it makes you feel proud.

7) What is your take on judging Indian idol?

Indian Idol has always been a fan favorite show and the acclaimed singing reality format has produced some of the most talented singers who have paved their way in the music industry. Re-entering the vibrant world of Indian Idol feels like a joyful homecoming. I enjoyed my stint as a judge on Indian Idol Junior, but there is an added layer of excitement for this edition of the show, as I have the privilege to reunite with fellow judges Sanu Da and Vishal. It’s an honour to find and nurture the next wave of Indian talent, and it’s a joy to witness their journey towards becoming India's next singing sensation. Moreso, my journey from being a contestant on a reality show to now judging a fan favourite format like Indian Idol has been hard yet rewarding. Shows like Indian Idol provide budding artists with a national stage to showcase their talent and experience the workings of the music industry. I have been an avid follower of this show and I am looking forward to commencing the journey as a judge on this highly anticipated season of Indian Idol.

8) What will be the criteria for choosing a gem from the contestants?

It is a huge responsibility for the judges to choose a gem out of many. The basic requirements for singing are emotion, vocal modulation, and sur-taal that must be met, and beyond that, we are searching for an outstanding voice that should be a one-in-a-million jewel which shines before us and subsequently in front of the public. When it comes to judging talent, I would look at nurturing the raw talent of the contestants and help them give some exceptional performances!

9) Tell us about your happiest moment in life.

The day my beautiful son came into my life. It was the most emotional and beautiful moment that I will cherish for life.

10) What do you say about the current music scenario?

I believe singers today arrive well-prepared. Not just musically, but their vision for the future is also very strong. It is an incredibly artist-friendly period, which I am loving. In today's technology-driven world, one can make their content famous from any corner of the globe. The power of social media has further made it possible to gain recognition in the music industry like never before, marking a significant musical revolution.

11) What according to you is a huge responsibility of the judge?

I believe the primary responsibility of judges is to put contestants at ease. We wouldn't want nervousness on the first day to hamper their performance. So, I always ensure contestants feel like they have a friend on the panel. They should sense that they're not being judged, allowing them to perform with a smile and positivity, giving their best.