MUMBAI: The 'Gerua Girl' who swayed listeners with her singing in Dilwale (2015) and other wonderful tracks, Antara Mitra has her hands full with several projects in her kitty. She shared her journey from her Indian Idol days in a short chat with radioandmusic.com.

Excerpts-

Tell us about your musical background.

I belong to a musical family. Music runs in my blood. I was a bright student and I never thought of taking up music as my career.

Finally, I even skipped my medical entrance exams for the Indian Idol auditions.

You were a reality show participant. What do you think about such new platforms?

These platforms are good for showcasing your own talent and obviously, one's face value increases. But after the show ends, you have to constantly present your skills because that is where the real hard work starts. But it is a brilliant platform where the small town and worthy talents get recognition.

Do you think reality show singers are overshadowed  by the ones who have Bollywood connections?

No, not at all. this is a misconception. Arjit is from a reality show Fame Gurukul (2005), Monali, who was my fellow participant in Indian Idol, recently bagged a National award. Sreeram Chandra, the winner of Indian Idol (2010) is doing fabulously well. There are others too- Neha Kakkar, Nakash Aziz...

How would you define a turning point in your life?

Deciding the fact that I had to participate in Indian Idol. I was too young (18) at that time and that wise decision took me here. Primarily, I used to get a lot of criticism about my choice of career. But I am glad my family always backed me.

How do you feel when good songs are not appreciated?

Music is a slice of the whole film. There are other things too in the movie that matter because honestly it is a complete package. It is all in the Kundali of the songs whether it works or not. I believe in keeping on going and continuing to sing my melodically rich tracks. Those who are real music lovers may bring out an underrated musical chunk.

Do you ever regret anything related to music?

The one and only regret in my life- I was too young when R.D Burman died. What would it like have been if I had got a chance to sing for him?

Any new projects coming your way?

Azhar's songs are already out. I have also sung some melodious numbers in 1920 London with the new music duo- Kaushik and Akash who are the new artistic birds in town. Simultaneously, I am doing so many shows and live concerts.

Antara's take on singers

Arjit Singh- He has come from a different planet

Shreya Ghoshal- She is and she will always remain perfect voice for heroines

Monali Thakur- Extremely talented girl and a brilliant singer and dancer

Mika Singh- Has shown the industry what a singer can look like

Sonu Nigam- Legend

Antara Mitra- Way to go