I was thrilled: Shraddha Kapoor

Shraddha Kapoor-starrer Rock On 2 released this week. It may have performed dismally at the box-office, but there is a silver lining yet. The actress who has sung four songs in the film, has won high praise from Lata Mangeshkar herself.  She talks about the experience...

You have sung four songs in the film and that too, without formal training. Comment.

I trained with my Nana (Pandharinath Kolhapure) when he was alive. He was a well-known classical singer, but unfortunately, I did only a few classes with him. I wish I had done many classes… It’s as if there was a treasure in my own house, but I didn’t spend enough time on music with him. For Rock On 2, I did a few classes with jazz singer and vocal coach Samantha Edwards. We did voice exercises which were really fun. Basically, all these exercises are a workout for the vocal cords and helps control them. They are like biceps in your throat (laughs)! While singing Udja Re, I was a bit hesitant as it’s a challenging song but Shankar-Ehsan-Loy were there throughout to guide me along.

Has your aunt Lata Mangeshkar heard you singing?

I met Lataji ages ago and I wish to meet her again soon. She speaks to my mother and aunt every now and then and she said something really sweet. She called them up and said, ‘Please tell Shraddha that she’s a really good singer.’ And I was thrilled! It made my day! I really want her to listen to the songs I have sung.  

Like Jiah in RO2, you come across as aloof and guarded…except with friends and family.

Possibly... I like to be in my own little bubble. That’s all that I have actually — my family, friends and work… And of course, there’s food (laughs) which I enjoy A LOT! I eat dinner and sleep very early. I don’t follow any diet or avoid any foods. I eat, I have a little petu (tummy) also, haan?