Madhubanti Bagchi has truly made her mark in both Bollywood and the Independent music scene with hits like ‘Nazariya Ki Maari,’ ‘Barbaadiyan,’ and ‘Shayad.’ Known for effortlessly moving between ghazals, classical music, and commercial tunes, she has also lent her voice to major brand campaigns. Additionally, her success in Coke Studio Bangla Season 1 with ‘Dokhino Hawa’ further solidifies her talent. Notably, Madhubanti stands out as one of the rare female singers who is also a music composer, currently focusing on creating her own compositions.
The versatile singer who is at the cusp of releasing some peppy tracks in the coming months, got candid about her musical career, her shift from a settled career to crooning songs in some of the most acclaimed movies, her collaboration with Sanjay Leela Bhansali for Heeramandi and more.
Here are the excerpts:
Can you share with us the story of your transition from a settled career to pursuing music full-time in Mumbai?
Initially, I never had concrete plans to pursue a career in music professionally. However, my family always encouraged me to study music thoroughly in a traditional way. After completing my engineering degree, as my friends were securing job opportunities, I also appeared for job interviews and even managed to secure a couple of offers. Despite this, I felt uncertain about following that path. I realized I needed more time to explore whether music could be a feasible career option for me. At that point, I wasn’t sure whether I would delve into playback singing, form a band, or explore other avenues within music.
To buy time and gain clarity, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in engineering. While pursuing my master’s, I started attending auditions and performing at live shows in Calcutta, where I began earning some income. This experience boosted my confidence and made me believe that pursuing music full-time was indeed viable. In 2014, after completing my master’s, I made the bold decision to fully immerse myself in music. I spent three years honing my craft in Calcutta before eventually relocating to Mumbai.
What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when making this career shift, and how did you overcome them?
Transitioning into a music career came with its challenges. One of the main obstacles I faced was the absence of a clear roadmap in the music industry. Unlike traditional job searches with defined processes like applying, interviewing, and securing a position, the music industry lacked such structure. This ambiguity made it difficult to navigate the industry and understand how to establish a successful music career.
Despite these challenges, some opportunities started to emerge as I performed with a band in various events, catching the attention of music composers who invited me for auditions. This initial breakthrough opened doors for me in the industry. However, the journey didn’t become instantly smooth. After landing my first song, I encountered issues like financial instability and self-doubt, common hurdles that many artists face.
Throughout the ups and downs, I learned to persevere, stay focused, and remain resilient in the face of obstacles. While the path wasn’t always easy, I embraced the challenges, knowing that overcoming them would only strengthen my resolve and drive to succeed in the music industry.
You effortlessly transition between genres like ghazals, classical music, and commercial songs. How do you approach such diverse styles creatively?
Listening to various music genres has been a significant part of my musical journey from a young age. Initially, my exposure was primarily to classical music during my middle school years. However, as I mingled with friends who enjoyed different musical styles like pop, rock, and metal, I found myself captivated by their sounds. Delving into these diverse genres became a source of immense pleasure for me, and I immersed myself deeply in understanding their nuances. I continue to find joy in exploring different musical genres as they not only broaden my musical horizons but also play a crucial role in shaping my vocal abilities.
My Guru often emphasized that musical growth relies heavily on active listening, attributing 70% of musical development to listening and 30% to diligent practice. While the distinction between good and bad music can be subjective and debatable, I believe it boils down to personal taste—music that resonates with you on a deeper level. Immersing oneself in various musical styles molds one’s listening abilities, making it easier to adapt and transition between different genres seamlessly. For me, the exposure to diverse genres, particularly pop music, has been both enjoyable and educational, contributing to what might appear as an effortless versatility to others.
What is your process for preparing to record a song in a genre that might be outside your usual style?
Studying the genre is a crucial step in preparing for any musical performance. Understanding the nuances and roots of the genre is essential, especially when venturing into unfamiliar territory. When faced with a genre outside my comfort zone, I make a conscious effort to delve into its core elements and seek out simpler songs within that genre to grasp its essence effectively. Singing, although a skill that may come naturally to many, demands a deeper comprehension of the genre and its origins to deliver a genuine performance.
For instance, if tasked with singing a blues song tomorrow, thorough research into the history and significance of blues music becomes imperative. delving into the message it conveys, and its cultural roots. Similarly, genres like country music carry unique histories that shape their distinct soundscapes over time. Despite maintaining certain thematic elements or styles, the evolution of these genres from the past to the present highlights the importance of understanding their evolutionary journey.
Hence, immersing oneself in the history and evolution of a genre not only enriches the performance but also provides a deeper connection to the music being sung. Even if one isn’t a regular listener, investing time in studying the genre before stepping in front of the microphone is crucial. This preparatory phase, coupled with rigorous practice at home, allows for a more authentic and polished performance when faced with the mic.
Can you take us through the creative process behind ‘Nazariya Ki Maari’ from Heeramandi? What was it like working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali on this project?
During the initial stages of the project, I vividly recall a pivotal meeting with Bhansali sir at his office, even before the shoot had commenced. I entered to find a collection of diaries, and he meticulously played through various songs in my voice, evaluating each one. While some songs resonated well, others didn’t quite encapsulate his envisioned essence. It was during this session that the song ‘Nazariya Ki Maari’ surfaced as a standout. Bhansali sir expressed his conviction that this particular song should be rendered by me.
Reflecting on our initial encounter, I had sung a thumri for him, a moment that left a lasting impression. His profound appreciation for Indian music, especially Indian classical and rooted melodies, underscored his discerning taste and expertise in the field. This deep-rooted understanding of indigenous music traditions informed his precise vision for the project, guiding his selection of vocalists tailored to each composition. Hence, his astute grasp of music and penchant for authenticity solidified his decision in entrusting me with ‘Nazariya Ki Maari.’
Can you share any insights into your collaboration with him and what you learned from working with such a renowned filmmaker?
Working with someone like Bhansali sir has been a rare privilege, given his immense wealth of knowledge and attention to detail. He is a beacon of information across various aspects, leaving no stone unturned in understanding every facet of a project down to the finest detail. His involvement in a film or project is marked by a thorough understanding of every element, be it intricacies in music production, nuances in sound engineering, or the specific tonal requirements of instruments like tabla or sitar. His meticulous approach and comprehensive grasp of the creative process serve as a source of inspiration.
One of the most admirable traits I seek to emulate from him is his unparalleled level of detail orientation and dedication to his craft. Bantari sir’s unwavering commitment to excellence is evident in every project he undertakes, with his signature touch guaranteeing an exceptional final product. His ability to immerse himself entirely in a project, prioritizing its success above all else, sets a standard of excellence that few can match.
Witnessing the transformative impact of a Sanjay Leela Bansali production underscores his tireless work ethic and unwavering pursuit of perfection. The hallmark of quality associated with his projects is a testament to the dedication and passion he invests in his work. These qualities, far from being insignificant, form the bedrock of his success and serve as a blueprint for aspiring creators like myself. While emulating his profound qualities may seem daunting, the aspiration to incorporate even a fraction of his dedication and attention to detail into my own work remains a driving force for personal growth and excellence in the creative realm.
Ek Kahani from Panchayat 3 is loved by many. What inspired your performance in this track?
Firstly, I am a huge fan of the show Panchayat, so when I found out that I was going to sing a song for it, I was overjoyed. Watching Panchayat is a family affair for us, and we all adore the series so much. The song I sang has a deeper meaning. It’s not just about the romantic relationship between the two main characters; it delves into all the various conflicts and struggles each character is dealing with. It was a challenge because the song is quite abstract and not focused on just one emotion like love, sadness, or celebration. It’s more of a philosophical piece, encompassing the complexities each character faces. Understanding the context of the sequence and having Anurag explain the significance of the song placement helped me grasp how to approach it. Despite the initial difficulty, I did my best to capture the essence of the song and deliver it in a way that resonated with the series’ themes.
Your song Dokhino Hawa in Coke Studio Bangla Season 1 was a superhit. Can you describe the experience of being part of Coke Studio and how it differed from other projects you’ve worked on? And the kind of significance it holds for you?
This experience stood out to me as it was unlike anything I had done before. Being in a different country with a unique music culture, the creative process differed significantly from what I was accustomed to. It felt liberating and fluid, with minimal restrictions or alterations once the creative direction was set. There was no external interference from labels or others; only the artists involved had a say in how things unfolded, which I found incredibly refreshing.
I appreciated the artistic freedom I was granted during my time at Coke Studio Bangla. This freedom allowed me to express myself in my own way, adding a sense of novelty and excitement to the experience. The song I worked on became a standout piece of that season and continues to resonate with audiences, occasionally trending even now. The fact that the song connected with so many people speaks volumes about the power of unhindered creativity and artistic expression. Overall, I treasure the opportunity to have been part of an environment that encouraged artists to fully realize their creative vision without constraints, making it a truly memorable and enriching experience.
As one of the few female singers who also composes music, how do you balance your time and creativity between singing and composing?
Balancing singing and composing can be incredibly challenging, especially as a woman. I often find myself overwhelmed by the constant need to prove myself and take on more than I can handle. I tend to struggle with delegating tasks to others, which results in me shouldering a heavy workload alone. This leads to sacrificing sleep, skipping meals, and neglecting my health, which is certainly not sustainable or healthy. I realize that I am still on a journey of learning and growth when it comes to finding a balance. Understanding how to prioritize tasks and when to let go of certain responsibilities is a skill I am actively working on. It’s a constant struggle to navigate these demands effectively. I ponder over how others manage to maintain this equilibrium and strive to uncover the secrets to a more balanced lifestyle. While it remains a steep learning curve, I am committed to figuring out what works best for me and refining my approach to achieve a healthier work-life balance.
Can you give us a sneak peek into some of your upcoming compositions? What themes or styles are you exploring?
I have some exciting projects in the works, particularly a couple of dance tracks that I’m eager to release. These tracks are my own creations and are designed to be lively, enjoyable dance numbers. They represent a departure from my previous work and showcase a fresh, new direction for me as an artist. While I also have romantic songs in the pipeline, I’ve decided to hold off on their release until later this year. My priority right now is to introduce these high-energy, fun dance tracks to the audience first. I’m enthusiastic about unveiling these tracks and curious to see how the audience will react to them.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences, and how have they shaped your approach to music?
My musical influences have evolved in phases throughout my life. Initially, I was deeply immersed in classical music, drawing inspiration from legends like Begum, Begum Akhtar Ji, Pandit Ulhas Kashalkar Ji, Girja Devi Ji and my guru Subhra Guha Ji. These classical maestros had a profound impact on me, even when I wasn’t fully aware of their influence.
As I grew older, my musical taste expanded to include a variety of genres. I found myself drawn to bands like Coldplay, Alter Bridge, and Meshuggah, exploring the intricate textures of progressive metal and other diverse styles. Alongside this exploration, I developed an appreciation for Bollywood music and the talents shaping the industry. Iconic figures like AR Rahman, Amit Trivedi, and Pritam Da captivated me with their magical creations, showcasing a level of genius that resonated with millions.
The singers in the industry, such as Shreya Ghoshal, Arijit Singh, and others, have also left a lasting impression on me. Each artist I encounter, whether established icons or emerging talents, offers something valuable to learn and draw inspiration from. I view them all as icons in their own right, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of music that continues to fuel my passion and creativity.
Can you share any particular moments or experiences that have significantly influenced your musical journey?
In 2017, I found myself at a low point in my life and made the decision to walk away from pursuing music professionally. This choice was not driven by my career performance but rather by personal struggles that had left me feeling demotivated and discouraged. While residing in Calcutta at the time, I was resolute in my decision to step back from music. My parents, acknowledging the uncertainty of the music industry, supported my decision and advised me to explore other, more stable career options given my education background and potential for lucrative employment.
During this time of introspection, unexpectedly, I received a call from MM Kreem Sir in Hyderabad, inviting me to record a song for one of his films. Initially skeptical, I eventually realized the opportunity was genuine and decided to seize it. Within 24 hours, I found myself in Hyderabad recording the song. It was during the return flight that I had a profound realization – letting go of music would be a mistake. I recognized that my passion for music was deeply ingrained in me and that I had the potential to create impactful work in the industry.
Empowered by this epiphany, I made the bold decision to move to Mumbai, believing it to be the place where I could truly flourish in my musical journey. Mumbai proved to be the right choice for me, validating my belief that it held the opportunities and environment I needed to thrive as a musician.
How has your cultural and geographical background influenced your music?
Growing up in a family that placed a strong emphasis on music, I was exposed to a rich musical environment from a young age. In my household, there was a keen focus on the type of music I consumed, reflecting the cultural significance music held in our lives. Calcutta, known for its vibrant artistic and literary scene, further surrounded me with music, art, and literature that were hard to overlook. Regardless of personal preferences, these cultural influences were omnipresent and inevitably left a mark on me.
My upbringing was infused with a deep appreciation for classical music, with a particular emphasis on hardcore classical compositions. Even as a young child, I was immersed in this musical tradition, often singing bandishes without fully comprehending their meaning. This early exposure to classical music and literature played a pivotal role in shaping my musical identity and defining the person I have become today. The nurturing of these influences from infancy laid a strong foundation for my passion for music and artistic expression, ultimately contributing significantly to who I am as an artist.
Do you think featuring more folk music in mainstream shows and movies could help make it popular? Especially in light of sohar ‘Hind Ke Sitara’ from Panchayat or your thumri ‘Nazariya Ki Maari’ from Heeramandi gaining prominence among masses?
In addition to the songs you’ve mentioned, ‘Rangi Sari’ holds a special place as a mainstream dadra that is widely recognized, even among those learning classical music from a young age. This song, along with other folk classical compositions, represents a significant aspect of our musical heritage. These folk tunes were initially sung by common people and later adapted into classical forms by artists. Folk music, designed for mass appeal and understanding, is deeply rooted in our cultural DNA and deserves to be celebrated and preserved.
It’s essential to embrace and incorporate these musical roots into our modern perception of commercial music. By introducing these traditional tunes with modern adaptations, we can ensure their longevity and introduce them to future generations. Songs like ‘Rangi Sari,’ Sohar, and Kajri, Chaiti carry a unique charm and joy that resonates with audiences. Encouraging the inclusion of such folk elements in commercial spaces can lead to widespread appreciation and awareness.
I recently released a Chaiti, a beautiful song celebrating spring, which exemplifies the timeless appeal of folk music. By strategically integrating these pieces into commercial contexts that align with their essence, we can ensure their continued relevance and appreciation by a broader audience. Regularly incorporating these traditional elements into modern music spaces not only preserves our musical heritage but also enriches the cultural landscape for generations to come.
What advice would you give to young, aspiring musicians, especially women, who want to break into the industry?
While I may not be an authority on dispensing advice, I believe that a strong work ethic and a dedication to honing your craft are crucial in the music industry. It’s essential to identify your unique selling proposition (USP) – the special quality or talent that sets you apart
from others. Understanding what sets you apart can help you carve out your niche and stand out in a competitive field.
For women in particular, I believe it’s important to cultivate self-reliance and a willingness to master various aspects of music production. By being proactive in learning skills such as music production, song arrangement, and technical know-how, women can broaden their scope beyond traditional roles as singers. Diversifying into roles such as composers, music producers, and engineers can not only empower women in the industry but also contribute to a more inclusive and innovative music landscape.
The industry can benefit greatly from increased female representation in these technical roles, offering fresh perspectives and enhancing creativity across the board. By encouraging women to explore diverse opportunities within the music industry, we can collectively nurture a more dynamic and diverse musical ecosystem.
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