Art takes multiple forms, each having its own aura and magic. While dancing, painting, acting and dramas attract a wide audience, singing remains to be the only art form that takes one on a joyous ride. Telugu film industry is blessed with many popular and soulful singers whose melodious voice lifts up one’s soul. Among them is the well known singer Kousalya. Marking her debut in 1999 and passing over two decades of her journey, Kousalya delivered 400 plus songs to the industry. The state government honoured her talent with 3 Nandi awards under the category of Best Playback Singer. In today’s episode of The Right Hour with TFN, we had the beautiful and popular singer Kousalya as our guest where she talked about her songs, career and coping with the Coronavirus pandemic situation and more.
Singing for over 400+ Songs exclusively for films, Did you ever put count on it?
Yes, technology these days has made things possible so now I am able to count them. Earlier we never had copyrights in India, now since they are issuing copyrights, everyone of us are able to put a count on our songs.
How Do You Feel After Singing 400 Songs?
I feel lucky because back in my college days it was my dream to see my name on the screen as a playback singer. Being a student of women’s college, there was a liberty to be whatever we like. As I joined for my post graduation for Carnatic music, my friends expressed their belief in me that I would be a popular singer one day and that boosts my confidence. When I first entered the industry, I could see more singers from Malayalam, Tamil background and very few from Telugu. Then I wondered if I would be able to get a chance, but then magic happened and I am here.
How is your experience in acting?
I made my debut with Navdeep’s Run (2020) movie which was released on the OTT platform Aha. I played the role of a Psychiatrist in the film. It was very interesting and I enjoyed it a lot.
Did you find any differences between singing and acting?
I find it interesting. Since my college days, I have always had this interest in dancing and acting. Back when I learned Kuchipudi, I was always given the role of Lord Krishna but never Rukmini and Satyabhama. So I stopped dancing because they weren’t giving any glamorous roles, Kousalya said giggling.
How is your experience in Padutha Theeyaga with S.P. Balasubhramaniam garu?
Earlier in Padutha Theeyaga, judges didn’t have a seating panel like we have now. Back in those days, Balu garu used to come and stand right beside us. It was my dream to see him, this used to induce excitement within me and I used to shiver. If we sing well he used to encourage us by smiling. He used to interact with us at every segment. It was a beautiful experience altogether learning from him.
How is your life being a parent?
My son is currently in his plus two and I consider this as a crucial period for his growth so I am currently busy finding colleges and admissions for him. Besides, I am also working on my Ph.D in music and shall submit my thesis very soon. Apart from this, I am serving as a joint secretary in the Cine Musicians Union.
Can you share your winning moment in Padutha Theeyaga.
The final competition was held in Vizag. I was from Hyderabad and the other finalist was from Vizag. There were two music composers supporting Hyderabad and Vizag respectively. They put a bet with each other on which of us shall win the competition. When I won the competition, I received accolades from them and they sent me a bouquet of flowers asking me to visit their studio. It was one of the best winning moments in my life.
Have You ever felt any of your songs could have been sung better by you?
I felt that often in the beginning of my career. Back in those days, we had cassettes, I used to sit all alone in my room and used to listen to my songs with utmost focus. I used to realize my pronunciation at certain times should be improved. Then I slowly figured out my mistakes and worked on them for my future songs. I learned a lot from my thesis since it is about voice culture.
Who is your favourite co singer?
Hariharan. We had many hit songs like Mona Mona Neela Kanula Sona from Shivamani (2003) and Vasthane Vasthane from Soggade Chinni Nayana (2016.)
Who are your best Friends in the industry?
Everyone in the industry is best friends as we all meet only for programs and rarely we have get togethers. We are like a musical family and we all share a strong bond. It never feels like we are away from each other but rather feels like we just met them yesterday.
What is your message to a woman?
I would tell them to get an identity for themselves, work and do things they like. They should work for their own growth at any point of time.
Which one do you choose singing or acting?
Singing and composing as well.
What is your daily routine in the Coronavirus pandemic?
I have music classes in the morning for U.S students. My day includes cooking and I browse the Social media for information about COVID 19 cases. I practise music and work for my thesis.
How is your experience getting the first dose of vaccination?
I got my first dose of vaccine and am waiting for the second dose. People are aware about the importance of the vaccination after all the speculations. We have to begin fighting at one point and I think vaccination is one form of taking control and preventing the spread of the Coronavirus. Everyone should get vaccinated and I hope children should get vaccinated at the earliest. Let’s stay strong and positive in these tough times. Stay safe and use kind words to your fellow humans.
[subscribe]
Watch Telugu Online Here
