"I have this new method of fighting boredom and making the drive more pleasant"-- Shabnam

Illustration: SABYASACHI MISTRY

How important is it for an artiste to comprehend the true meaning of a song?
Any good song essentially contains a literary allusion. It is most important for an artiste to comprehend the true meaning of a song, which is contained in its lyrics. Without it, the rendition becomes imperfect and fails to touch the listener's heart.

Your fans would remember you for...
That is for them to say. However, deep inside I feel that I have tried to popularise many melodious compositions by our National Poet.

Ever felt insignificant?
Never.

When did you last lose your temper?
I am basically very calm and don't go ballistic easily. However, I have a grudge against the ill representation of our National Poet in state programmes. Nazrul was a creative genius. He has composed songs covering every aspect one can think of. His songs are important and it should not be performed as just background music for dance recitals only.

You never get tired shopping for...
Magazines, perfume, costume jewellery, shoes, groceries and what not.

Best compliment you have received so far...
That I am elegant, dignified, well turned out and have a melodious voice.

You never leave home without...
The inevitable traffic jam on the roads bores me to death. So I have this new method of fighting boredom and making the drive more pleasant: I never forget to take the newspaper and my favourite collection of songs, which range from Ghazals, to oldie goldies. And most recently, I have developed a special inclination towards the songs of the film Parineeta.

Worst thing people say about you...
I hate to backbite. That's why I often flee from the scene when there is any debate.

Interesting fan mail...
Once I received a mail from a fan ---where he mentioned that he had taped my song, Lailee Tomaar Eshechey Firia on both sides of a cassette which he played through out the day without fail, for months.

Do you consider yourself to be laid back?
I guess most artistes are very laid back. I enjoy catching up with old friends, calling them over and arranging get togethers. All this is after I finish my routine chores and of course anything that is related to my performance.

An ideal day for you is...
When I wake up early in the morning feeling relaxed and fresh, I say my prayers, then I sit for my routine rewaaz, and look forward to my performance in the evening. Nothing could beat that as a perfect day to me.

What is your opinion on the current trend of making music videos of Nazrul songs?
The current trend of music videos has both positive and negative aspects. Since the poet himself acted in cinema, I believe there shouldn't be any objection to music videos. However, preference should be given to the total impact of the composition--the lyrics, tune and the emotion of the song. Just flashy outfits and outlandish presentation do not in any way synchronise well with the Bangalee outlook.