Shreya Ghoshal - The Reigning Queen of Music: I'll even work harder

A chat with TOI, National Award winner Shreya Ghoshal talks about the importance of winning and being choosy about work...

You must be excited at winning the National Award for the third time?
More than excited, I’m grateful to God. I didn’t know that I had won the award because I was recording and my cell phone was switched off. My mom was trying to get in touch with me frantically to break the news. Only when I got back home did I come to know about the award.

The song for which you won the award was a chart-topper for a long time.
That’s the beauty of the song. When I recorded Yeh Ishq Hai for Jab We Met, I knew that it would strike a chord with a lot of people. It has a beautiful vibe to it and the composition was amazing. In fact, when I was recording the number everything fell into place. I enjoyed myself thoroughly.

So how important is a National Award?
This is my third National Award and I feel over the moon! It’s always good to be recognised for the hard work you have put in. As far as converting it to work is concerned, that’s not a point of concern. I’ve always had my kitty full with some good projects.

Are you going to be extra choosy now about the kind of songs you sing?
You know, composers have always approached me with good work. And they will continue to do so in future as well. I have no complaints. I have always put my heart and soul into singing a number. I’ve always strived to better myself with each song. If anything, this award will make me work even harder instead of being choosy.

You have also won awards for the songs you have sung in regional films.
The reason I like to sing in regional films is because it’s creatively satisfying. There are times when I don’t get to do certain things in Hindi films. That’s where regional cinema comes in and I get a lot of creative satisfaction. So far I’ve understood the nuances of the various South Indian accents. But I need to work hard on my Malayalam.

There has also been a drastic change in image. You have become more stylish.
I don’t know about the image, but yes, I love dressing up. At home and at my recordings, I’m dressed casually. But when I make a public appearance I like putting a fashionable foot forward. My sense of style is completely mine — be it the toga style gown or the short churidaars that I wear. I don’t have a stylist because it’s a drag to find a good one. I think with the ever growing scrutiny from the media — one tends to get a little conscious. But I see nothing wrong in being stylish.

Any plans of celebrating your win?
Well, as of now I haven't made any plans. Honestly I don't want to throw a party or anything. I would prefer to take a long break and go on vacation instead. That would be a great way to celebrate.