It's all about the swag!

Akriti Kakar is a singing diva who has entertained her audience with a number of hits.  She's the voice behind songs like 'Dil Vich Lagya Weh' from 'Chup Chup Ke', 'Marjani' and 'Khuda-ya Khair' from 'Billu Barber', 'Saturday Saturday' from 'Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania' and 'Iski Uski' from '2 States'.

She's also a judge for musical shows on television. But it's her single called '#SwagWaliBride' that's making the waves right now.  

Akriti talks to Anila Kurian about the song and some of the resolutions for 2018.  

What motivated you to release your single '#SwagWaliBride'?

I made a resolution this year that I will find the courage to release my independent music. I've been working on film songs and shows all this while and this just felt like the right time to do it.

Where did you draw the inspiration from for the song?  

It's my reinterpretation of the famous Punjabi folk song 'Chidya ya chamba'. I've recreated it in a completely different soundscape and given it a new take on the modern  day brides.  The song emphasises on how the brides and the mood of weddings have changed over the years.  

Are you hoping for it to become the bridal anthem now?  

I sure am! It says a lot about how we think these days and the kind of celebration we have for a wedding. It reminds me of how much fun my guests had at my own wedding and that's what inspired me to come up with the song. It's a three-part series. The remaining will be released soon.  

Have you made any other resolutions this year?  

I was doing a lot of shows and travelling last year which has taken a toll on my health. I want to  bring focus to that aspect of my life because I'm starting to understand that health is wealth (laughs)! Apart from that, I want to be known more than just a singer and performer. It's important to add more titles as a composer, director etc. You need to be more than what you are known for in this industry.

How comfortable are you in the industry now?

I used to be very nervous. I would just come to the studio, sing my part and leave. I wouldn't even know who the duet will be and which movie it is for. Now I'm a lot aware of my work and my stand in the song.  

When will you be singing with your sisters  Sukriti and Prakriti Kakar?

We sing a lot on stage but we haven't  recorded anything else. We have been discussing our single but they are still finding their way in the industry. Let them figure that out and then we'll decide what to do.

Do they come to you for advice?  

There is a good exchange that goes on between us. We discuss our work every day and rubbish each other's work.  My sisters make me feel young.  

How do you spend your time when you're not working?  

Oh, man! I'm always working. But I've made it a point to explore more places when I'm travelling  - maybe stay back a few more days. At home, I like to work on my music and cook.