'I love keeping myself busy with arts and crafts'

Shalmali Kholgade is now  a brand of her own with her hit musical numbers. After the roaring success of her debut song ‘Pareshan’, she became the regular voice for some of the biggest songs. Her latest song ‘Baby Ko Bass Pasand Hai’ was termed the most successful song of 2016.

Being the multi-lingual singer that she is, Shalmali is finally ready to release her single ‘Aye’ which she composed herself. She speaks to Anila Kurian about her inspiration behind the song.

Tell us about your single ‘Aye’.
I’m beyond excited about the release of this song — I’ve been meaning to release a single for a while now. This song is very special to me. The word ‘aye’ is an expression often used to voice opinion or objection.

The inspiration for this song was the gender equality discussion we are all having now. I want this song to let everyone know that they should do what they truly want to do.

You also turned into a director for the music video...
Yes, while I was working on the song, I started visualising how I would want this song to play out. It was a different experience for me to direct the video and a definite peak in my learning curve.

The challenges you faced.
Being the director, I have understood that the cinematographer and the editor are very important. The cinematographer is the one who translates into visuals, how the director wants a certain thing to be done.  The editor, on the other hand, has a major job in bringing all of these elements together. Editing to the beat is not really an easy task but that is what makes the video what it is.

From all the songs you’ve sung, which one has been your favourite so far? 
‘Pareshan’ from ‘Ishaqzaade’ will always be on top of my list as it helped me start my career. I was well recognised for it and I couldn’t have asked for a better song.

You’ve also sung in many languages. Which one are you most comfortable in?
Bengali and Kannada are the easiest to grasp.

A language you want to sing in?
I have done a few jingles in Malayalam, but I would like to sing a complete Malayalam song.

Artistes you want to work with in the future.
A R Rahman and Shankar, Ehsaan and Loy.

How do you spend your time when not in the studio?
I love keeping myself busy with arts and crafts. Knitting and crochet work is my favourite. I’ve done a few carpets, cushion covers and scarfs.

Your favourite art projects so far? 
I started working on this lace cardigan a while back and it is absolutely beautiful. But it is still unfinished as I’ve been busy with work; it’s been lying in one spot for the last six months. I should get back to it soon.

Something you cannot live without.
I have to start my day with a cup of coffee and do a bit of knitting.

Any particular goals this year? 
I want to release more singles and learn more about the musical industry.