She finds Kannada songs melodious and feels that they have an Indian identity. “I am much involved with the Kannada industry. Kannada is no more an alien language to me. The kind of music that is being made here is awesome and every music composer here scores great songs. And the good thing is, a lot of experiments are happening,’’ she says.
Many people might not know that when she was a child, she had won the first prize in the children’s episode of Sa Re Ga Ma. “I started singing when I was a kid. My parents encouraged me all the way and I got trained in Hindustani classical music under many gurus,” she says and adds, “I was looking for every possible way to nurture my passion. My film career began in 2000 with Devdas, where I got an opportunity to sing five songs.” Interestingly, she won two awards for her debut singing in Bollywood.
Since then, Shreya has sung in nearly 200 movies in nine languages under various music directors. It is surprising to know that Shreya doesn’t listen to her songs. “I get bored of crooning a song several times. I prefer listening to Lataji’s or Ashaji’s songs. And the influence of Chitraji is great on me,” she avers.
What does she do to maintain her sweet voice? “Nothing, I never sing when I am disturbed, upset or not feeling well,” says Shreya, who is ready to face any kind of situation. “I like all kinds of experiences in my life and don’t want to be the same all the time. I am open to all kinds of ups and downs, struggle and excitement,” she quips.
Though she was introduced to Kannada film industry in 2003 through Paris Pranaya, she became a household name with Mungaru Male. “The film revolutionised the entire film industry. The music was wonderful and I liked all the songs. After Mungaru Male, offers from Kannada poured my way,” says the talented singer, who doesn’t want to act. “It is not an easy task to act in films. It needs dedication and mehnath (effort),” she adds.
What does she feel about Bangalore? “The City is very nice and Bangaloreans are well educated. They are high spirited and know how to have fun,” she concludes.
