MUMBAI: Small-town lad to urban hombre, Brijesh Shandilya has come a long way since his arrival in Mumbai a few years ago. 

His song ‘Banno Tera Swagger’ from Tanu Weds Manu Returns (2015) fetched him the GIMA Award for best duet song along with new singer Swati Sharma. His other renditions include songs from the movie Oye Lucky Lucky Oye and Airlift. Only recently, Shandilya was in the news for his Mother’s Day special video ‘Oh Re Mai’. 

What made you sing 'Oh Re Mai’? How closely could you relate to the music video personally?

Two years ago, my friend and I came home, worn out and exhausted. That was the time we wished our mothers had been around to take care of us and pamper us. This feeling eventually grew into the song but it took us two years to execute it. And thanks to Dimple Dugar who did justification to the song through directing the music video.

What kind of bond do you share with your mother and how has she helped you throughout your career?

I share a congenial bond with her and she has always stood by me even when I went against my family to pursue my passion. I chose music, which was obviously difficult to follow, but she never questioned me and supported me throughout.

Your life is no less than a roller coaster ride. What kept you going?

I seriously have no clue. I literally suffered a lot. I guess because of nature’s support that I was able to go with the flow. Also, my ‘mama ji’ (maternal uncle) - his support never let me break down. He is a father like figure to me.

You were a ghazal artiste on AIR and Doordarshan. Tell us more about that.

I never thought of radio as a career. In 2003, someone close to me, who was working with AIR suggested that I apply. I worked as a singer for two years but sadly, it created no impact because of lack of recognition. The recording used to be a  one take affair and the payment was measly. It is the music industry that respects your work and values it.

Who do you think is the best contemporary singer in Bollywood?

I shall take only one name and that is Arijit Singh.  The kind of soul Arijit has, I wish I could acquire.

What are some of the new projects you are working on?

I am working with Pritam Da on a project and also with  Amit Trivedi. It was my dream to work with him. He is the kind of music director who neither pressurises nor takes pressure.

Also watch the new music video sung and composed by Brijesh.