Neeraj Sridhar's musical trails

After spinning some smashing remixes of old classics, and now a successful stint with Bollywood, singer Neeraj Shridhar plans to revive the group Bombay Vikings. Excerpts from an interview:  

Q: You became a household name with Woh Challi and Kya Soorat Hai… How does it feel in retrospect?
A: The journey has been great, it’s been wonderful. It’s always great to look back at the times when we recorded those songs, went all over the world to perform them and got the love of our audiences. Whenever I am a little down or low, I always look back and I feel so good. The good times cheer me up. It shows that hard work pays, it encourages me to work harder. It has been exactly the way I had expected my growth to be.

Q: You’re still the ‘Bombay Vikings guy’ for many. Is it endearing?
A: It’s not too important, but at a point you need people to know that you are the man behind the music. I come from Sweden, so people should know that and see how I am still connected to my roots. People would call me, ‘hey Bombay Vikings’, and I had to tell them my name. When I came to Bollywood they asked what nickname I want and I said Neeraj Shridhar. It is a little troublesome sometimes. On radio and TV I still say  ‘Hi, I am Neeraj Shridhar, also known as Bombay Vikings.’

Q: So, does it tempt you to revive Bombay Vikings?
A: Yes, I’d like to revive it but not right now. I do have lots of songs with me but maybe later. Not because people say it’s not the right time for a private album, but because I don’t have time to really do full justice to the music.

Q: What are your favourites of all your songs?
A: I enjoyed the one from Aashayein, Mera Jeena Hai Kya Marna Hai Kya. One very challenging song was Prem Ki Naiya Hai Ram Ke Bharose because it’s not my style but I loved singing it. Then my first big hit Bhool Bhulaiyaa is a personal favorite.

Q: Is there a secret mantra behind it all?
A: I believe in the almighty and his blessings. Many times people ask if I’m superstitious because I wear a lot of rings. But that’s just because I like jewellery…it’s cool.

What’s next on your mind? Any big collaboration?
I’ve already worked with a lot of good and big names in music. For me, collaboration does not need to be with overseas people. It has to be a learning experience. I would however, like to work with my friends in Sweden. They are great musicians and I would like to work with them to learn more from them. I can’t disclose yet but there are big plans in the offing. I will  announce  them at the right time.
b_shreya@dnaindia.net