A Harvest of Inspiring Tales

Sujatha, a veteran writer of about seventy years, is bursting with many different skills including story writing, screenplay writing and viewpoint articles. His refreshing ideas and unique way of writing appeals to both young and old, which makes it possible for him to reach people belonging to various demographics and psychographics.

Sujatha 1 - 1st April 2006

1. How did an ordinary man become a promising writer Sujatha?
In my case, I guess, my background played an important role in me becoming a writer. As a child I was away from my parents and hence I experienced some kind of loneliness, my interest in Tamil, my Sreerangam background...all these could have been contributing factors. Hence, you cannot really say, this day is when became a writer. I guess one evolves spontaneously as a writer.

2. What do you think are the factors in your development into a writer?
I would say my interest in Tamil has been the major factor. My brother was good in Tamil poetry, which influenced my interest too. I had very good Tamil teachers in school and college. One significant factor was that, during my university, there was a short story collection from the British writers, which provoked my interest in writing, and there too, I had an excellent teacher who sort of created an interest in the craft of writing stories. I would consider these as major contributing factors.

3. Is it that you started your writing career only after your tertiary graduation?
Yes. After only I got my job, I really began and developed as a serious writer.

4. At what age did you first publish your work?
At the age of twenty seven, my first piece was published in Kumudam magazine, It was a short story.

5. What is your schedule for an ordinary day?
It depends on the day. If it is a holiday, I wake up late. One thing is that I always read late at night. I have two offices. So, I spend two hours a day in each office. If the deadlines for the articles are fast approaching, then I concentrate and finish my columns accordingly. It is quite flexible.

6. When you say you read a lot, has there been a shift in your reading?
Nowadays, I read a lot online. There is a shift in the type of my readings. I do not read much fiction these days.

7. There is a spontaneous flow in your writing that is distinct from the other writers. How is this possible?
I think the main reason for that is, I read a lot both in Tamil and English. When you read, you feel like writing like that. My classical readings also do shape my writing. There are so many good writers, who possess unique styles of writing. I guess vocabulary is also important for good writing. I have exposure to both ancient and modern literature. Thus, I am able to simplify and explain even the Sangam age literature.

8. Can you give a single potent message to the upcoming writers?
My single message would be, the key to good writing is good reading.

10. What is your advice to the aspiring writers?
One has to be honest and truthful to themselves. The most important quality for a writer is that he should look at things beyond his liking and disliking. I would advise them to read a lot. Any kind of reading whatever it is, will give them a message and it can reflect in their writing in one way or another.

Sujatha 2 – 1st July 2006

1. What does 'Success' mean to you?
Success to me is that, 'It is not me who has been successful, but it is my writing that has been successful.' I differentiate strongly between 'me as an individual and as a writer'. What people are appreciating is my writing and not the person behind it. If you can isolate this key fact, then the concept of success will not enter your head.

2. Have you had any demanding situations from your fans because you are a writer?
Yes, of course, there are. I have received 'Love Letters' from my fans expressing their love. I clearly tell them that it is my writing which has appealed to them and not my personality. As a person, I am free to choose my friends, lead my own life. From the beginning, I have not been mixing up my personal life and my writing career.

3. Does today's spatial pervasive Tamil cinema protect Tamil culture?
Certainly, it does not. Very few movies like Thavamai thavamirundhu, Indian and Anniyan convey some potent message to the audience. So only one in eighty or ninety movies has the aptitude to convey a moral message. Today's Tamil cinema is totally alien to practical life. Who dresses in real life the way which is portrayed in cinema? They are investing heavily in Cinema. So, if the prime intention is only to convey a message, then the movie would hardly survive for three days.

4. What is your idea on the Indian expatriates? What do you think they have gained and lost because they are away from their mother country?
When they live abroad, they become so prosperous. Those who have migrated overseas, after having spent their younger days in India, are guilty about their fellow citizens' poverty. There is no need for this. If you look at countries like India, ruling such a big country itself is a challenge. For those who come from overseas, small inconveniences like power cuts are a major problem. But for those living in India, these are all small problems and their primary concern is to wipe away the poverty. When we see countries like Singapore, we long for such a beautiful India. But you cannot compare Singapore to India. A well-regulated Singapore is potent to be prosperous. The situation in India is different to that of Singapore.

5. There is a wider consensus that the Tamil language will be wiped out completely in the long run. But when Tamil society is spread all over the world, why should this idea prevail?
I would say that this question itself is wrong. How many people did you ask? Ten people and did all the ten people take up to the same idea? No. I would not agree. I would say Tamil is growing. Many people are making this language live. Maybe the dynamics of a language might change; certain words, grammar can change. Tamil language will certainly grow and will not be totally wiped out.

6. What is your idea on 'Tamil and its progeny' in Singapore?
Tamil is prosperous in Singapore. It has had a glorious past and will be glorious in future too. My concern is that due to the advent of the Indian based Tamil Television channels, the mainland Tamil Cinema and Television programs might pervade into the local Tamil literature and culture. In this case, the Singapore Tamil Diaspora might lose its vernacular speech and symbols. They might not get the uniqueness of these so-called 'Singapore Tamils', like the 'Sri Lankan Tamils', who have their own dialect and culture.

7. What is your advice to upcoming writers?
Be truthful to yourself. Write beyond your own likes and dislikes. Read more. Anything you read will help you in your writing.

Editor, Sun TV and the Tamil magazine Kunkumam

1. What made you choose journalism?
I was drawn into journalism at a young age when I was 13. It was kind of a reaction to my reading habit then. I was keen to write but hardly had any guidance at that age. I was also told that I was too young for my works to be published. But my eagerness to express myself prompted me to launch a manuscript magazine when I was 13. Since then, my flair for journalism grew with me. As a result, at the age of 30, I became an editor of a full-fledged magazine!

2. "Pen is mightier than Sword". How much truth do you perceive in this proverb from your experience?
That is an old one. Now 'mouse' is mightier than the bandicoots. Of course, I mean the computer mouse and political bandicoots.

4. With so much craze for westernization these days, does it have any impact on the Tamil readership quality?
I do not want to make any qualitative analysis, as 'quality' is a subjective term but agree that readership has changed considerably. Westernization has opened a few windows. It introduced us to new forms of writings in the early 20th century and to new themes later. Free school education introduced in the mid-sixties revolutionized the reading habits in Tamil Nadu. A new generation of readers was ushered in. But in the subsequent periods, with the arrival of primary education through English as the medium, we have lost this crop.

5. With Sun TV being part and parcel of everyone's life, the messages delivered are most effective. Still 80% of the programme revolves around serials and movies. Don't you think concentrating on inspiring talk shows and programmes could change the mindset of the people for the better?
Television is a gift of technology rather than a social product like print media. It has its strengths and limitations. Before satellite televisions were launched, in India we had the monolithic, Government controlled channels, which were bureaucratic. It was highly Delhi centric and was promoting Brahminical culture. There was hardly any room for counter or alternative culture. To cite an example, Ramayan and Mahabharat were serialized for years and Silapathikaram had to wait. This milieu positioned satellite televisions at the other end of the spectrum. When they were born, they became more entertainment - and film - centric. In the last 10 years, Sun TV has bloomed into a bouquet of 10 channels and each one is dedicated to one theme. Sun TV is a channel for serials, KTV for films and Sun News Channel for news and current affairs. This segmentation offers options and variety to the viewer and has strengthened all the dimensions of the Media.

6. It has become a fashion to invite the cine stars to political power. Both fields being two different poles, if elected, how effectively can their roles be served?
Democracy is a system that offers equal opportunities to all. No one can rule the people without their consent, in a system of democracy. And film stars, if they fail to deliver, will be ousted out of power. In Tamil Nadu, in the past MGR era, no film star could make it to power. Many of them, Mr T. Rajendar, Mr Bagyaraj, even Sivaji Ganesan, were not able to run their own political parties. Even MGR's widow, Mrs Janaki Ramachandran, is no exception. Nowadays we see the films of superstars, whether it is Mr Rajanikanth or Kamal Hassan, flop at the box office in the absence of a convincing story line. Baba and Aalavandan are examples. All these show that the people are discerning and it would not be easy for a film personality to walk into the corridors of power, simply availing their film popularity.

7. What are your views of the Tamil language and its progeny in Singapore?
Tamil in Singapore has a glorious past and it will have a glorious future. It is now time to acquire a modern outlook. An intellectual approach to language would help more rather than an emotional approach. Instead of wearing Tamil on sleeves just as an identity, now Singaporeans have to handle the language as a tool for intellectual expressions. Singapore has all the potential to become a cyber hub of South Asia and Tamils must avail themselves of this opportunity. The Internet can be used to foster the language in many ways, namely, web archiving, web publishing and teaching and Singaporeans must use this opportunity to their best.

8. What do you think is the most important quality for a journalist?
In the profession of journalism, one will come across the darker side of society and its people more often than others. A journalist has to be positive minded. Other than this, the most needed qualities are commitment, objectivity and fairness to all views.

9. What is your advice to the youngsters who aspire to become journalists?
If you scroll through history, you will find that all great minds had been journalists. Mahatma Gandhi was a journalist. Jawaharlal Nehru founded the National Herald. Marx published his own paper. Bharathiyar was the youngest editor Tamil has seen so far. Periyar and Anna were journalists. Kalaignar still writes for Murasoli every day. Come and join the club!

Known popularly as Gnani, he is a columnist and journalist, a man of his own perspective. His enriching knowledge on world affairs that reflects in his columns distinguishes him from most of the other writers.

1. What prompted you to choose journalism?
My desire to become a journalist prompted me to take up journalism. I was interested in writing, debating and speaking right from my young age. So, I would say that out of my basic instinct I became a journalist.

3. Now as a veteran journalist, do you think the media can play an important role between the public and what is happening?
Without media, there is no news at all. Media is homogeneous. Today, there are many forms of media owned by different people. So, obviously, there will be a tendency to disseminate news from each one's perspective.

4. Right, what I want to ask is whether the media is more manipulating or playing an effective role?
It is up to the people to choose and accept the news. They should look at the media as a product and make the right choice as to how they buy clothing or groceries.

5. How do you choose that week's idea for the column?
When you run a column on current affairs, you cannot ignore politics. So, I touch politics as it is more dominant. Also, I take up social issues, which will have a long-term impact on society.

6. Have you ever had any response to your writing from the public?
Yes. There have been enormous responses to my writing. Some come and tell me that they accept my views and some do disagree with my ideas. Some say that they are not able to express their views and they see me as their representative. I am not bothered if people do not accept my ideas. I am happy that my ideas are getting discussed. I see where I differ with people. It helps me to analyse my position and to refine and fine tune myself.

7. When did you have mass appeal to your writings?
I have been in this writing field for more than thirty-five years and I have even been attached to big publications like kumudam, anandha vikatan, and kalki. So, right from the beginning, my writing has had mass appeal.

8. What are the pros and cons of being a journalist?
I would say, pros are more than cons. You keep yourself updated with the current affairs. You can express your views and will be happy when your ideas get discussed. The cons are that you may feel a little bit uncomfortable when people resent your ideas.

9. Who are your target audience?
My target audiences are middle class people who have a similar background to me, those who have come up in life through education.

Jaggi Vasudev, known as Sadhguru, born on 3rd September 1957 in Mysore, Karnataka is the founder of Isha Yoga. The reputed yogi is one of the most popular contemporary Indian spiritual leaders. More than just being a guru, merely discharging yoga techniques and spreading spirituality through talks, he is a visionary humanitarian. His powerful oratory power in English makes him appear regularly on various famous television channel talk shows and speak at world conferences. Thus, Isha Yoga is rooted in various countries with millions of followers. The foundation, apart from its spiritual discourse, is also involved in a lot of community and social activities.

When he came back to his normal state, it was late in the evening. He wondered if he had hallucinated, but in the days that followed, this experience recurred and each time it left him in a state of utter bliss. This episode entirely changed his way of life. Jaggi Vasudev decided to dedicate his entire life to the sharing of those experiences".

In 1992, Sadhguru established the non-profit organisation Isha Foundation to raise social awareness among people. Sadhguru often says that one can live a life full of ecstasy if people are awakened. He says that the power within one self is so great that the food we consume can just turn into energy. Whereas people unaware of that great power are sad cursing their own fate and destiny. So, he urges people to at least live a contented life if not a life of ecstasy.

Isha reaches out to the poor in many ways. Action for Rural Rejuvenation (ARR) was floated with a view to enhancing the health conditions of the poor. Likewise, Isha Vidhya takes care of the education of the poor; Go green projects in which millions of saplings are being planted all over Tamil Nadu was initiated to avoid environmental degradation and this large-scale tree planting project will enhance biodiversity, protect the soil, restore ecological balance and provide livelihood opportunities for thousands across the state.

I was very honoured to have the opportunity to interview Sathguru Jaggi Vasudev.

1. You often emphasise 'awareness'. How do we become aware?
'Awareness' is not learnt or cultivated by going to a class or a course. The innermost core of your being is awareness. Until and unless you have that application, then it becomes difficult to be 'aware'. If you have the awareness to be aware, then it becomes easy. When people are on this surface, they are only experiencing the surface of their life that is their mind and body. Nothing can be done to it - but in whichever way you are, you are aware.

2. Is it possible for anyone to liberalise themselves from this world?
Definitely. It is possible for everyone to liberalise themselves. It is purely within oneself to make it possible. For making it possible, you must place spirituality on top of your priority list. All your energy must be directed towards that. If you have spirituality among many other things in your life, then it is never going to happen. You don't need to search for it anywhere far. It is within you. So, when it is within you, who else can stop you from attaining it?

3. How can anyone ever maintain their inner peace?
If you are not going to make this little mind peaceful, how can you make this big world peaceful? What one actually sees is the projection of this world through their little mind. You cannot look outward when you are identified with something so strongly, as all the other doors are closed. You will only react in the way that you are thinking and you will less understand others' problems. So, it is better to understand through your intelligence than through your reaction. If you do so, then you will look at the things the way you are and not from an identity.

4. Why has God created 'Human Beings'?
First, you must understand that each and every human being is only a tiny speck in this universe. Today, we are living. Tomorrow if we are going to die, nobody is going to question us. Only if you do not lead a blissful life, then you will raise this question. Somehow this life has become a struggle and pain. If you are leading a blissful life, then, you will not ask this question. Do not keep asking this question to numerous people and try to find a solution to it. Every culture, region, country will unravel its own stories. So, instead of asking 'why', you should put the question as 'how'. Then you will soon find a solution.

5. Hindus believe in life after death. What do you say about this?
You should first live the life here. Instead, why think and ask about life after death? That is totally a different dimension. First, you must understand the world you are in and should stop asking questions about something that is in a different dimension. You must only understand the limitations that you are bound to. If you are going to keep questioning, "What is heaven?" "What is God?" then it will only lead you to hallucinations. If you understand and free yourself from these bonds, where you will have to go anyway you will go.

6. How do we understand the support from the people around us and gain their faith?
If you are just dealing with only one person, then you will only need to understand them and act accordingly to gain their support. If you happen to work with a thousand people and expect all the thousand to understand and support you, you will not be moving an inch. Each one has their limitations and you must try to understand those boundaries. Then only you will have the power to move with that situation. If you want to get close to someone, you must first try to understand them well. Only then, can you enjoy the relationship and get their support. At the same time, if you are expecting that person to comply with you all the time with much understanding, then you will be opening an avenue for more differences of opinion. That attitude will be far more than between the enemies.

Tmt. Soundara Kailasam, a veteran poet even at the age of eighty, keeps herself occupied reading books and daily papers and is well updated with the current events. Recently, she authored a book called Ellaiyilla aruzhazh in praise of Lord Allah. This is evidence of her relentless spirit. Here are some excerpts from an interview with her, taken at her residence in Chennai.

When did you marry?
At that time there was the Saradha act which prohibited women's marriage before the age of 14. So, I got married, when I turned fifteen. My husband, Thiru Kailasam, was a High Court Judge for seventeen years, Chief Justice for a year and retired after working as a Supreme Court Judge for 3 years and eight months. When I was 16, my first daughter Vimala was born. I have two other daughters and a son. My first daughter, Vimala Ramalingam, is a doctor. My second daughter, Mrs. Nalini Chidambaram, is a lawyer. My third daughter, Mrs. Padhmin, is an industrialist at Tiruppur. My son, Sadaiyavel Kailasam, is a doctor.

At that age, unlike today, not many women were into a public life. Whom would you attribute your entry into public life to?
I really don't know how I got into public life. My father was well versed in Tamil literature. When I was a kid, my father sang thought provoking Vallalar songs like "One should know them first" and many others to me, which I was pondering in my mind. So, I guess my father's meaningful song recitals to me at my young age, must have ultimately influenced my interest in the Tamil language in my adulthood.

Can you recall your first public appearance?
At that time, we lived near Pachaiyappa's Arts College. I used to attend the literary events that took place in that college. They had an oratory competition and in the absence of a judge, I was called upon to judge the competition by Mu. Varatharasanar. I bluntly refused that call, saying that I had never been to college. They persuaded me and I was one among the three judges. Once the competition was over, to my surprise and shock, I was called up onto the stage to announce the winners. I was literally shivering, and somehow managed to speak on stage. Once I came off the stage, everybody praised my oratory skills. I gradually developed my skills.

How old were you then?
I was about 18 or 19...

How did you balance your family and career then?
I never failed in my duties. In the absence of maids, I made sure I do all my household chores. My husband was very supportive. He encourages me to read, write and give public speeches. My husband told me about the country, leaders like Gandhi, Barathiar and others. When I was given a topic to speak about, then I read up on it. Likewise, I was developing my knowledge in various fields. At that period, none of our relatives lived in Chennai. So, we used to get a lot of relatives coming for treatment, college admissions and so on. It used to be a very cordial relationship among our relatives.

You have lived in Chennai for a very long time. Still, are you in touch with your relatives?
Oh, yes. We attend all the functions, in our family. Recently, I celebrated my eightieth birthday at the Taj Coromandel, Chennai. I bought pink color sarees for all my relatives. It was very beautiful to look at everyone in pink. All my relatives had come for that function.

Your daughter, son, granddaughter and grandson all have inter-caste marriages. How do your relatives perceive that?
None of my relatives has expressed their resentment over these issues. Right from my grandmother's age, we are not against inter-caste weddings. The reason for such a kind of belief is that, when Rajajie was in Thiruchengodu Gandhi Ashram, Gandhiji was his guest. At that time, Rajajie's daughter Lakshmi was in love with Gandhi's son, Devadoss Gandhi. They got married. So, the elders in my family were of the idea that, when these great people accept the inter-caste weddings, why don't we?

What is your idea? Do you regret it?
No, absolutely not. I have never regretted it. All of them are happily married. So, I have no such kinds of feeling.

What do you think are the pros and cons of the Tamil society?
In Tamil society, I don't see any cons as such. In the villages, people are financially backward. That is what I think is something to worry about.

Do you think to-day's women have been uplifted?
Definitely I am very happy for to-day's women. It is due to the education; they have really been uplifted in their lifestyle.

What suggestions, would you recommend for women in today's lifestyle?
My suggestion would be to get the girls married at the right age, say at twenty. You cannot wait for a correct match. Girls must develop patience and tolerance, to succeed in their married life. If they are over twenty-five years or so, they have their own opinion and ideas. Then it becomes difficult to get an apt match. So, it is better to get the girls married at the right age.

Kavignar Vairamuthu, poet and writer, needs no introduction. He has won many awards, which include the Padma Shri and Kalaimamani Awards. I was happy to do an exclusive interview with him.

What is your schedule for an ordinary day?
I don't have a scheduled normal day in my public life, which has totally been stolen away. I have very little time for myself. I look at this lifestyle in two ways. In a way, I think I am living the right way. For example, when my writing has changed the fate of many people and when they express their gratitude for their betterment in life, (there are even situations where people have changed their mind about committing suicide and are living happily), it gives me immense satisfaction with what I am and I feel my life style is totally on the right path.

When I don't have enough time to spend with my family and friends and little time for myself, then, I feel I must sacrifice my own pleasure for the benefit of others.

There is a spontaneous flow of poetry in you. How is that possible?
Tamil language made it possible. I made sure that I enriched it further. On the other hand, I try to be more organized and it is the capacity of an individual as how they handle things. I don't brood over anything. I keep my mind clear. I see to it that I don't get into problems that will take me to a police station, court or get me indebted to anyone. The support from my family too makes it possible.

What does success mean to you?
What I am going to do hereafter is success. So far what I have done is all deeds. Deeds do not mean success. They are directed towards success. Even if people call me a successful person, I would say it is just what they perceive about me. I genuinely feel my success is to start only now, when I am reaching fifty.

Tamil society has a lot of values and culture. Do you think Tamil movies, which have a mass reach, are watched with a view to protecting the Tamil values and culture?
Cinema is a field initiated with an ambition and ends up as an entertainment business. With so many scientific inventions and globalization of modern technology, Tamil cinema has lost its originality. When the very folk arts and entertainment (Karakattam, Theru kuthu) which is free of Media and modern technology have maintained their originality, Tamil cinema sent through modern technology has lost its originality. There is so much western impact; it cannot be avoided in this internet culture. It has become much commercialized. But you should also accept the fact that, there are standard movies that intend to protect the Tamil culture from being extinguished and there are promising entertainers today. But that number is less.

What is your idea about the expatriate Indians? In which way do you think they have lost and gained because they have settled overseas?
The main reason for people to migrate is economic constraints. As they have migrated overseas, they become monetarily sound. But they lose the affinity towards their mother land. Here, parents are the beneficiaries and the children are the losers. It becomes impossible for those children to move towards the Tamil Culture. The reason is much attributed to the globalization and the development of modern technology and media.

There is a wide consensus that the 'Tamil language will be lost in the long run'. Where, as Tamilians have settled all over the world, how and why do you think this idea still exists?
It was true that there was a belief that Tamil language might be lost in the long run. But now, new research has found that Tamil will survive. Unless Tamilians live with Tamil the language will not be enriched. For example, if you take Mauritius, Tamilians are living there, but there is no Tamil. This is the same case in most of the western countries. When there is no opportunity to learn Tamil, then they will live with colloquial Tamil but written Tamil would be missing. In this case there is a very little chance for them to have affiliation towards the Tamil language. So, in fifty years' time there will be a change. The exceptions are a few overseas countries like Singapore, Malaysia and Sri Lanka, where Tamil is one of the official languages. The most important thing is to make sure that Tamil language is enriched in Tamil Nadu first and Tamil and its progeny must be given its due respect.

Kavignar Thamarai is the one and only women poet in today's Tamil cinema. Her lyrics add spice to the songs in almost all the latest blockbuster hit movies. The most successful lyric writer was in Singapore to present a show along with other three poets and she graciously granted me an interview. Excerpts from the interview:

2. So you mean to say they are not born?
Gene factor contributes a little. Those who hail from educated families generally have an aptitude to observe and grasp things easily. In contrast, those from uneducated backgrounds tend to be slow. They are most likely to start from scratch like a toddler, crossing each stage such as crawling, walking, talking etc... This difference matters in shaping a poet. Whatever it is, as said above, one's experience is the bigger teacher. So, in my view a very little percentage is attributed to the genes factor.

3. What attracted you to this field?
My competence to fight the evils of society brought me here. Today, a lot of social evils exist, like the dowry system, forced marriages and caste problems. Being a girl from a moderate family I was so helpless. Also, I was not able to accept others. All I could do was to fight within myself. I wanted to do something on a large scale. So, I guess, I opted to express my views through poetry.

4. These days songs do not have a potent message compared to those of Kavingar Kannadasan's age. Why is that so?
In those days, directors created the story line. Now the concept has totally changed. Can you quote a single story-oriented movie out of the last fifty movies that have been released now? Only if it is a story-oriented movie, then there is a scope to write meaningful songs that are in line with the movie. Nowadays, songs are squeezed into the movies. The trend has totally changed. These days' movies are purely commercial. The prime focus is on the youngsters. So basically, movies are based on love stories and so there is little scope for sentimental songs. It is not that we cannot write songs on par with those days' poets. As days have changed, we are helpless.

5. Almost all songs are shot with women wearing skimpy clothes. When you write a song with emotions, and ultimately when those songs reach the audience in such a way, how do you feel?
Well, I am well aware of all these facts. If I had entered the movie field so naive, I would be the most innocent. If you are that innocent, you can't even move an inch ahead in the film industry. My job is only to provide the lyrics for the song. I have no right to set the scenery of the song. Though initially I was very hurt, I have learnt to cope up now.

6. How do men perceive women poets? Are they proud of women poets or envious?
There is no field free of male chauvinism. Have you ever come across a non-male-chauvinistic notion? This is very normal. But also, I should agree, there are also people who just focus on the outcome of the song. If you have done it to their expectation, they are full of praise for you. They don't care who you are. That's the reason I am still able to exist.

Dr. Justice A.R. Lakshmanan, Chairman of the Law Commission, gives his candid views in this interview.

2. What inspired you to take up law as your career?
Even as a high-school student, I used to read the judgements published in the newspapers, which inspired me to become a lawyer. I was also inclined to become a judge and, therefore, took up the noble profession.

3. How were the initial years of your profession?
I cannot claim any heredity in the legal profession. I had a humble beginning in the profession. I had to struggle hard in the profession.

4. What are the various positions that you have held in your law career?
I was enrolled as a lawyer in 1968. In 1989 I was appointed as Government Pleader for the State of Tamil Nadu to represent their matters in the High Court of Madras and in the Supreme Court. I was appointed as a permanent Judge by the President of India in 1990 and I served in the Madras High Court for 7 ½ years. Thereafter I was transferred to Kerala and served there for 2 ½ years and was also Acting Chief Justice on three occasions. Thereafter I was transferred to Rajasthan High Court as Chief Justice and served there for two years. Again, I was transferred to Andhra Pradesh as Chief Justice of the Andhra Pradesh High Court. In 2002 I was elevated as a Judge of the Supreme Court representing the State of Tamil Nadu.

I retired as a Judge of the Supreme Court on 22nd March 2007 and in May 2007 I was appointed as Chairman of the 18th Law Commission of India, which post is held by a Judge in the rank of a sitting Supreme Court Judge. I am the first Nattukottai Chettiar to be appointed as Government Pleader, Judge, Chief Justice of three High Courts and Judge of the Supreme Court of India and now as the Chairman of the Law Commission of India.

5. Can your share with us the turning points in your career that have led you here?
Though I was selected as an officer at the interview conducted by the Indian Bank and the Indian Overseas Bank, I did not join in those posts and continued as a lawyer throughout my career till I was elevated as a Judge. The turning point in my life was my meeting with the then Chief Justice K. Veeraswamy, who was the Chief Justice of Madras High Court. He hails from Devakottai, my native town. As a Secretary of the Old Students' Association of Nagarthar High School at Devakottai, I invited him to our School for inaugurating the Association. He asked my father whether I was practicing Law at Devakottai. My father told him that I, being his eldest son, wanted my presence in Bangalore, Mysore, Madras and other places to look after our business. However, Justice Veeraswamy persuaded my father to send me to Chennai to practice law at the Madras High Court.

I started my practice with Shri G. Ramanujan, the then Government Pleader and then as a Judge of the Madras High Court. I was also a junior under Mr. K. Venkataswami, former Judge of the Supreme Court and Mr. R. Krishnamurthy, former Advocate General of the Madras High Court. I have learned a lot only through them. But for my meeting with Chief Justice Veeraswamy at Devakottai, I would not have become a lawyer, a Judge, Chief Justice of three High Courts and Judge of the Supreme Court and later Chairman of the Law Commission of India. This was the turning point in my life.

6. Which posts have you enjoyed the most? Why?
I enjoyed my career as a Judge of the Madras High Court and as Chief Justice of the Kerala, Rajasthan and Andhra Pradesh High Courts. I enjoyed my judgeship at the Supreme Court. In the Supreme Court I had many opportunities to try cases of various natures and varied branches, which came from different parts, different states, of India. In short, I can say I enjoyed every minute of my stay in the Supreme Court and because of my hard work, I was able to deliver several landmark judgments during my career.

7. Which of your judgments do you think as a milestone in your career?
I delivered 98,676 judgments on various subjects such as Tax Law, Matrimonial Jurisdiction, Testamentary, Patent Law, Trade Marks, Insolvency, Company Law, Civil Laws, Criminal Jurisdiction, Writ Jurisdiction and all other subjects. I deem it a milestone in my career the judgements delivered from Kerala High Court sitting with another Judge in a Division Bench which banned smoking in public places such as railway stations, parks and bus stations, which according to us is a health hazard and it affects the health of the public who inhale the smoke. There are many other judgements too.

8. Have you ever felt guilty about or dissatisfied with any of your judgement?
I never felt guilty about or dissatisfied with any of my judgments since every judgment of mine was prepared with meticulous care and devotion.

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1. Which do you think helps you most in managing your vast empire - your overseas education or your Tamil culture?
Tamil culture helps you to remain with honesty, to be genuine and to live with other related virtues. Overseas education helps you in the strategic planning of the business. So, only when both aspects blend together, can one manage efficiently.

2. Your father Mr. M.A. Chidambaram Chettiar is a legend. What values did he impart to you?
I would call myself my father's shadow. There was absolutely no generation gap between us. We had a wonderful working relationship. When my father was there, we made decisions according to what would be more beneficial for the company. I am more risk-taking than him. I try to follow the same with my sons and sons-in-law.

3. You are very systematic. In India, there is less emphasis on punctuality. How do you deal with that?
If there is a problem, then, we will have to first analyse the basic reason for it. If there is a problem with someone, then you should put yourself in their situation and must try to find a solution to it. At times, we have got to be flexible and emotionally balanced. I am well adjusted to this kind of situation and these have never been my concern.

4. We have heard a lot about your inclination towards sports. Can you talk to us about that please?
I am a keen polo player. I was the President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for two terms (1999-2000 & 2000-2001). I was the President of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association for eight years and am a member of many prestigious Sports Clubs including the Marylebone Cricket Club, London.

5. Can you tell us about your philanthropic activities through education?
I am connected with a number of educational institutions in areas as diverse as Engineering, Biotechnology, Mathematics, Pure Science, Management and Music. I am chairman of various institutions and I am also connected to various other institutions in various capacities.

6. Do you welcome women working, these days?
Yes... Of course yes... I am receptive to women exploring themselves in various fields. As days are changing, we must cope with the changing times. In fact, both my daughters do have their own businesses.

7. You are a busy man. Still do you have enough time to spend with your family?
Yes. If you can balance your life, then you will find time for everything. Usually on Sundays we have breakfast together with our grandchildren. They bring a diary in which they write down what they did that week. So, I will get updated on their routine, their likes and other things. So, I perfectly spend happy time with my family.

8. Who is your role model?
I consider my father a role model. I try to follow his patience, persistence, administration, planning, etc. He is the kind of person who is bold when he loses and calm when he wins. Another person is Mr. J.R.D. Tata, for his business acumen.

9. What is your advice to aspiring youngsters?
If one works hard with optimism, sure they can succeed in life. Their hard work should be coupled with honesty and integrity.

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Q: How much time do you get to spend with your children?
With two children aged 12 and 8 years it is quite a handful. We are quite focused on spending quality time with them. It is very important that my husband or I drop them at school.

Last night I had a dialogue session with the Prime Minister and when I got back home, it was about 11pm. My daughter was still awake and even before I could change my clothes, I spent a few minutes with her. I try to be a good mother to the best of my ability. My daughter's Primary School leaving exams just got over. I was on leave working from home and teaching her. I thought when the children grew older, it will be better. But as they grow the demands change.

Q: How do you organize your day?
She says that she has her valuable diary in which she lists down that day's work and thus she is very organized.

Her husband is Editor of The New Paper, and though both are busy on their own work, they still manage to spend quality time together.

"We have our coffee together in the morning. It is usually during Saturday nights that we spend time together. Usually after we attend to our invitations, say about 10pm, we go out on our own. I think these kinds of little things should be done to ensure that there is a good communication flow among the family members."

Q: How do you manage the household chores?
Oh, I have always been fortunate in having good maids. Without the help of maids, parents and in-laws it would be difficult to manage. When I don't have lunch appointments, I go home and during evenings, I just pop in and have a look as to what is happening.

Q: How do you deal with male chauvinism?
Initially when I came on board, I experienced the element of chauvinism. If being women is hard, then being Indian women is harder. Generally, there is a tendency to look at you as a woman and not as an editor. Whenever I was hurt with criticism, I just focused on revamping the paper. Now the paper has been doing well. Now I think people have accepted me and once you have proven yourself, then they support and respect you.

Q: Are women given equal rights to men?
Yes. It is only for women to take it. Women tend to self-censor and apologise more. Whatever and whoever you are, if you can do the job, it is fine. But I must confess that we are still in a male centred, traditionally patriarchal society. That mindset has not changed. It will take many more years to change.

She further says, "I am not cynical about it as it is our culture and tradition and that is the way we Indian women are brought up. We do accept that. I must also accept the fact that, in the last ten years, women have become more dynamic and their earning capacity too has changed for the better. It is a choice of each woman, whether to be a housewife or a career woman. If you choose to be a housewife, then you should not worry or feel inferior about it."

Q: How do you relax?
My relaxation comes from reading. We go on a family tour and we get a good break.

Q: What is your advice to those who want to be successful career women?
I would ask them not to worry as to what people say. Instead, do what your heart and dream say.

Q: Are you pious? Do you celebrate festivals?
Yes, I am a Hindu. I do pray. As we do publish the paper on the festival days too, I am usually in the office on the festival days. So, we celebrate it in the office itself. During Diwali we are off. Generally during Diwali and Pongal we go to my in-laws' and my parents' place.

Now it was time to say bye to Dr Chitra Rajaram. Yes! If you could balance both the family and career, there could be many more successful Chitras!

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1. Can you tell us about your formative years - like where you were born, your interest in music during your childhood, your school, college, friends etc...
I was born in Chennai, at St. Isabel's hospital. My father sought after the blessings of Sirkazhi Thiripurasundari - Bhrammapuriswarar temple. So, soon after my birth, I was taken to Sirkazhi for a bath in the holy Tank Temple and to proffer pooja. The day I was born, my father was recording a duet song "Vandu Aadaatha Solaiyil" with Smt. P. Susila, for the film Veerath Thirumagan composed by Sri. K.V. Mahadevan. The song coincidentally was a welcoming song for a child in the movie.

My elder sister, Dr. Gnanavalli Pradhaban, now practising in the USA, was my father's pet. I was a mother's pet. All my relatives, family and even my children claim this. I did my schooling at St. Bede's High School in Santhome, Chennai, where many celebrities' children studied. Hence, I had an opportunity to mix with students from different backgrounds. My Tamil teacher Mrs. Florence and Hindi Teacher Mrs. Alamelu, who were in charge of the cultural programs, encouraged me to participate and sing in the Parents' Day celebration.

I did my Pre-university at Loyola college, Nungambakkam, Chennai, where education is more emphasised. That was the time when emergency was declared in India with strict enforcement. I entered medicine with my merit well before the election in which the Government under Dr. M.G. Ramachandran was formed. I studied medicine at the Madras Medical college. I did my undergraduate and postgraduate studies at Madras Medical college, trained under stalwarts of medicine.

I started learning music when I was ten years old, much to the displeasure of my beloved father, who did not want me to become a musician, in view of his experience in industry. My mother Smt. Sulochana Govindarajan, who is an embodiment of patience and humility, was the driving force in my life. She convinced my father with a promise that my studies would not be compromised for music and that I would prove myself in academics academically too. My father's classmate, Sangeetha Vidwan Sri. B. Krishnamurthy, was my chosen guru. He shared the same wavelength as my father. With the blessings of the Almighty and my lovely parents and most respected Guru, I did my best in achieving my bit in Medicine and Music.

2. How would you describe your school days as a legendary singer's son?
At school I loved being one among the whole lot. Though we had cars and people to take care of, I always preferred using a rickshaw, public transport or walking to school. My father liked our simplicity and appreciated the quality which we imbibed from him. The teachers in the school got excited, when my father drove down to my school, which eventually paved the way for my musical talents to be unravelled. Thereafter, I was involved to sing the invocation in the Tamil mandram meetings and participate in the special musical skits in Tamil during the Parents' Day celebration in the school.

I held several positions like President of the Tamil Mandram, House Captain and class monitor in school days. My best musical encounters in school, was when my music class teacher with her grand piano at St. Bede's High School auditorium was teaching us the nuances of western music with a breathing exercise session preceding it. My teachers were excellent task masters who moulded me for what I am today. Being a legend's son, there were a lot of expectations and I am lucky that my teachers guided me to take up music with sadhana and rigorous practice.

3. Though a father can teach many other students he often cannot teach his own child. You being your father's disciple, how was it in your case? Were you very obedient or naughty?
One of the Annual Parents' Day performances fetched me a special prize from the Chief Educational Officer, Mr. Karuppiah, who presided over the function. He was excited and rushed to the stage to announce the prize and I was dumb struck with joy. At home my father was totally upset with me seeking his blessings and appreciation for the prize won. He was literally in tears, when he explained his turbulent past in music. He made me realize that education was the most important thing in life. My determination made my mother convince my father that music training is important for a legendary musician's son, since people look at him with an expectation. Then, I started my music lessons from my father.

4. Can you recall any off-beat incident while taking classes under him?
With utmost disinterest my father started to teach me the initial lessons of music. He made me wake up early in the morning at 4 am and practice while I would still be asleep. In the initial stages, I use to make mistakes with the rhythm Tala counts. For those mistakes, I use to get stronger Tala counts in my lap with his palms. I was made to practice rigorously. If there was still no progress, then the next bed time milk would be cut. My father was a very strict disciplinarian and there was no compromise. I was an average student, but with hard work, I had remarkable results in my academics and music.

When my father realized that he was being overstrict with a learner, my father put me under his close friend and classmate, Sangitha Vidwan B. Krishnamurthy, who shared a similar sentiment like my father about children pursuing music as a career, from whom I have learnt music till date. I am my guru's pet student and treated like a son in his family.

5. Would your father sing to his family members while at the dining table or during some casual talks? Would the family members criticise him for fun or was he a strict disciplined father?
My father was a lovable and affectionate person. He was the embodiment of humility and kind to all. He had an excellent sense of humour, which he used to share with the family. He was cheerful always. He was annoyed over even the slightest disorganisation or imperfection. He had gained perfection through rigorous training during his young days in the drama stages of Devi Nataka Sabha and the Gurukulavasa during his music college days with a strict guru, Sangeetha Kalanidhi Thiruppampuram N. Swaminatha Pillai, the flute maestro. Hence, naturally he would expect perfection in the family. His favourite quote was, "Work while you work and play while you play", which is my mantra until date, to train my children. Whenever a song was recorded, he made it a point to sing it for us at home and make us happy. We were lucky as his children for that. When composing a song at home, he used to respect our views on the raga and would even be ready to alter, if we could justify our point. He made us enjoy life with good food, quality friends, sharing of his experiences, providing us opportunities to experience the music and its people etc. He was a totally innocent person without any commercial tricks. He respected and expected only love and affection from his relatives and musicians. He never bowed down or compromised on his principles for money and opportunities. He was projected as an angry person, which he was not, in reality.

6. Though your titles, accolades, awards and achievements speak for your "identity", more often you are perceived only as a shadow of your father. What have you got to say on this?
It is not easy to be a shadow of an irreplaceable and incomparable legend. By virtue of my being Isaimani's son, the people and fans have great expectations. I am working hard to fulfil these. It is up to me to accept the criticisms. I work on my father's advice of taking his inspiration and not becoming his imitation. I have developed my own voice culture and style. I have imbibed the good qualities of my father in life and music. People praise me for the clear open throat, expressive singing with clear and distinct diction, which is my father's forte. Thus, I am compared and appreciated. This kind of a perception is common with the next generation of followers in any profession, be it film acting or politics. I have worked wholeheartedly for my own identity, my own recognitions, my own awards and accolades, my own achievements in my musical career. But I am also proud to be the only legal heir, follower of my father's footsteps, shadow etc. as a wholesome God-given hereditary copyright for the boundless musical wealth of my father. There is nothing wrong in the way people perceive me, as long as they enjoy my good music style. It is their own will and pleasure to perceive whatever they want. But remember, truth prevails.

7. There is a wider gap between the audiences of Carnatic music and cine music. Your efforts have sort of bridged that gap. Can you tell us the challenges you faced in that transformation?
There is absolutely no secret. The truth is the true flawless music style of my father which I follow. His principle to sing the song (be it a film song or classical krithi or a devotional song, anything for that matter) with utmost dedication and devotion, to reach the audience with ease, with his expression intact. No one challenged. In fact, everyone enjoyed the songs being sung in such a nice way that the music was easily understandable and enjoyable, be it in any language of the universe. Unnecessary crooning of a classical song in the name of classicism or rendering a light film song too plainly without imprints of musical values like finer brigas or sangathis is considered wrong in our style of music. Times and technology have changed and transformation is not a problem.

8. There was more emphasis on the meaning and the clarity of words in the composition of songs in those days, whereas technology dominates the songs these days. Which trend do you think will be evergreen and for what reason?
Quality stands the test of time. We have observed that a newer thinking with melody and classicism intact will stand forever with the experience of the past. Orchestra back up music is only an outer look. The rendering voice and lyric are like the body and soul. The life of a song with a healthy body and soul will sustain with any type of shirt worn on it. Change is inevitable!

9. Not many choose music as their profession, unlike medicine, law, engineering, IT, etc. Why is this so?
Music was like IT jobs in the bygone era. Good performers had a lucrative deal. That was the case in both cinema and light music. Now, music related jobs, television channel music production units etc., are widening the opportunity and scope for music professionals. The disadvantageous aspect is that music as a reflection of soulful feel can be expressed by any one in their favourite formats. Most of the time, it even clicks with a grand following. Even non-conventional, untrained music is cherished nowadays. Formal training becomes secondary most of the time especially in cinema. Lobbying for opportunities in music is yet another discouraging factor for the trained musician. With other professions, especially on the technical side you are sure to make some money in a job which is more secure than music, which takes time and extensive life style alterations for survival.

10. You are a multifaceted man, a legendary musician, a renowned physician, a dedicated philanthropist. Still, you are a humble, simple and approachable man. What makes that possible?
I was brought up like that by my parents. We as children knew nothing else other than our parents. We the children of Isaimani live our lives in the path shown to us by him.

11. Which has given you more satisfaction - being a musician or a physician?
Both the professions are challenging and oriented towards the masses. Both give absolute satisfaction when I see a smile of relief. I get that in both the professions luckily with the Almighty's grace. I have been a man of action. Hence there is satisfaction.

12. Though you are born and brought up in Chennai, just saying the word "Sirkali" will immediately make people think of Mr. Govindarajan and Dr. Siva Chidambaram. What is your practical connection with Sirkali?
I was born in Chennai. My native place is Sirkali and my father came to Chennai for better prospects in his music profession. Though I was born in Chennai, my father insisted that my first bath was with the theertham of the famous temple of Sirkali, which had the Saint Thirugnanasambandhar Thevaram story. Sirkali has become our family name and my father did his best in bringing a good name and fame to his native place. We have our relatives, cousins and properties in and around Sirkali.

13. Are we soon to see the third generation of the "Sirkali family" hitting a hat trick in the musical field?
My children are interested in music. I have made them learn classical music during their school days. Now they are into the technical field, pursuing their studies seriously, respecting my father's sentiments. They are free to listen to their choice of music and take to their way of music in future, if they are really interested. God is great and things happen by his will and destiny.

14. Whether they take up music as a profession or not, can you kindly explain to us your role in developing their musical talent?
My role as father is to show them their guru. It is for them to learn and grow. I have done my conscientious duty without fail in all aspects. I am sure they will realise and be up to the mark in life.

15. Tell us your experience - What is "music", "the power of music" and "the pervasiveness of music"?
What is music: Music is a divine feeling, an expression to cherish good ideas and moral values. It is not just for the tune.
Power of music: They say money plunges to the underground world. Music goes even beyond that. It is the only thing in the world which makes the performer as well as the receiver happy. In other professions, the one who does it is happy whereas the receiver has a lacuna in satisfaction always.
Pervasiveness of music: Good music can pervade the body, mind and soul. But in today's world, such music is being perverted in the name of creating new music, denigrating classical values, commercializing with fusion concepts, forgetting the authenticity and orthodox aspects of our rich cultural heritage of music.

Mrs. Sudha Ragunathan, ranked number one in today's Carnatic music, needs no introduction. Although she has attracted millions through her music, she is a down to earth person. She has launched more than fifty music cassettes. She is a recipient of many awards including Kalaimamani. Her songs with enchanting melody are lively and enticing for the audience. Being a mother of two children, she was asked how she balances her life and career.

I started my music classes when I was nine years old. From my father's family nobody is into music. Though my mum sings, she did not give concerts. So, I would say I am the first in the family to give concerts! When I was sixteen, I started to perform in the temples. When I turned nineteen, I started to take advanced training under Mrs. M.L. Vasanthakumari. Actually, when you are young, your mum takes care of everything. But now you are a daughter-in-law, wife and mother. So, you have got to play three different roles at a time. But I have no problem balancing both my family and career. I would consider myself a normal housewife.

I have no regular schedule each day. When I have concerts then I go out and perform the same as when there are recordings. The rest of the time, I am at home taking care of my children. I cook, shop, clean, send my children to school, play board games with them, help them do their chart works, attend parent-teacher meetings, so I would say I am a happy and perfect housewife!"

So, coming to the question of privacy, I was curious to know how her family takes it when she is being spotted by fans during their outings. Wouldn't it upset her children, as it intrudes into their privacy?
"Definitely not, as my children do have their own heroes, they know how thrilling it would be to meet their heroes so they have accepted such situations. In fact, they are happy because my popularity is an honour for them too. Also, when I tour overseas for days together, they are used to getting help from their father. My in-laws are also very co-operative. At times I cannot attend some family functions and they do not make a big deal about it. Without all their co-operations, it would not be easy to be a singer."

How does she preserve her voice?
"To preserve my voice, I avoid eating cold and sour items and I don't speak loudly and for relaxation, I take a good walk. So, I would say absolutely I have no problem balancing my family and career. In fact, I do it beautifully!"

Nithyasree, the melody queen, is a well-known figure and she made her debut into the Tamil cine field through the blockbuster movie Jeans. It would not be an exaggeration to say that people get mesmerized when the song "kannodu kanbadhelam" is on air. A chat with her:

1. When did you begin your music class?
Actually, I began to sing when I was about six years old. But I started my proper vocal classes when I was ten years old. I practiced for about six hours when I was in school, from 5 to 8 a.m. and 8 to 11 p.m. At times, it would even extend till 2 a.m. in the wee hours of morning. So, I would say I was very committed from the beginning.

3. You hail from a musical background. So, there is no surprise that you have chosen the musical field too.
No. It is not like that. I have a lot of cousins. My sister gives concerts. But purely my hard work and dedication has made me into what I am today. If there is a will, there will be a way.

4. Which is your favourite raga?
I enjoy all kinds of music. So, if asked to specify a raga, which one am I to point out? I would say I like all. To point out a few may be kalyani, sahana, bairavi... Each one has its own charm and enticing melody.

5. Mostly you sing songs that have a Carnatic base. Why is that so?
After 10 years of stage experience (vocal) I made my entry into movies. That was the turning point in my career. Following that, I was offered songs with Carnatic base. But these days I sing all kind of songs.

6. What is your opinion on the budding singers in Singapore?
There are a lot of talented upcoming singers in Singapore. They need to improve their talent. They lack in synchronization. If they can overcome these shortcomings, then they have a bright future.

7. What do you think about the Singapore fans?
I have been to Singapore twice. Singaporeans are excellent fans. They are very friendly. They enjoyed the concert. We had an overwhelming response. They expressed their views spontaneously.

8. There is a craze for western music. What do you have to say about this?
Western music is more on the lighter side. On the contrary, Carnatic music is on the heavier side. If you want to enjoy Carnatic music, you need to possess deep knowledge in that field. To put it more precisely, going for a Carnatic concert is like going to a temple, whereas going for a pop music concert is like going for a movie. The craze that exists towards western music is temporary. Carnatic music's credibility will never diminish.

9. Are you interested in composing?
Definitely. I have composed many songs. I recently composed for a series of devotional songs, Kuzhal Udhum Kannan.

Harini, a young Carnatic singer, also dabbles in today's cine field. A mother of two children, she is an absolutely down to earth person. Here are two interviews with Harini. Her husband, Mr. Tippu, is an equally popular singer and the duo heads for a bright future in their singing career.

October 2006

1. Let me start with a general question. It is believed that music has the ability to cure diseases. Is that true?
As far as I am concerned, whenever I have a headache, I listen to good melodious songs. It definitely helps reduce tension. They say music has a lot of other powers too. It is believed that if you sing the raga Amirthavarshini perfectly, then it rains.

2. Is it essential to have a Carnatic base to sing film songs?
It is not an absolute necessity. There are many singers existing now, without a Carnatic base. If one has a Carnatic base, then it enhances their grasping power. My Carnatic base has helped me a lot. I made my entry into the cine field due to my Carnatic base. You will be more confident, as you know that you don't stray away from that raga.

3. Can those without a Carnatic base last for a long time in the cine field?
Yes. With more practice and listening to more songs, they can last. Nowadays, expression is considered more important than knowing it technically. Constant practice is vital to sustain.

5. How do you balance your family and career?
I am not the kind who can shrug off my responsibility; I never give excuses for not taking care of my children. I do prioritize. My family and children come first. This is the first time I am away from my children for four days. I manage with the help of my mother-in-law and sister-in-law. My son is quite adaptive.

6. So, are you a perfect, happy mother?
Yes, I am. I do all the household chores like cooking, taking care of my children etc. As we are freelancers, it is possible.

8. How long did you study Carnatic music?
I started very early. For nearly ten years, I studied Carnatic music.

9. After how many years of training, were you confident of identifying the ragas?
After five to six years of my music training, I was confident of identifying ragas.

10. What is your piece of advice to the upcoming singers?
Most essential is that they must practice well. You should have interest in music. If you have the interest, with practice, it is easier to learn music. If not, even if you study for decades, it is difficult. More practice makes one perfect.

January 2007

1. How much is it different to sing a Carnatic song to a film song?
Both fields are different. In Carnatic song, the in-depth pronunciation of the song is important. Whereas, in a film song, you are expected to sing in a lighter way. Technology too has its influence in today's cine field.

2. Could you explain how?
Now, through technology, a singer's voice could be processed to suit a situation in a movie. Even if you don't have a Carnatic base, you can still sing film songs. In the cine field, expression is considered the most important thing.

3. Is it possible to excel in both Carnatic field and Cine field?
I don't think there is any female singer, now excelling in both fields. There are a few male singers such as Mr. Yesudoss and Mr. Unnikrishnan who excel in both fields. They say women's voices could get strained, if they try to overdo things. Female singers essentially have to balance between Carnatic songs and film songs.

4. What should one do to withstand in the cine field?
First, one should be dedicated to their singing career. Second, they should also be lucky. They should also maintain good relationships with everyone and should also work hard.

5. Do you think playback singing is becoming a highly competitive field now?
Definitely, yes. There are a lot of music directors continuously being introduced. Earlier, girls from orthodox families were apprehensive about entering the Cine Field. Now, the trend has changed. It is becoming more of an open field. Hence there are a number of singers getting introduced. So, now it is definitely becoming a competitive field.

6. How long does it take to record a song?
If it is for a movie, then it takes two to three hours to record a song. For a title song of TV serials, then it takes about one hour. You should have the aptitude to pick up and sing that quickly.

7. Have you performed in many countries?
Yes, I have performed in the USA, Africa, Australia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Kuwait and in Singapore.

8. What is your experience with Singapore?
I consider Singapore to be my special place. When I had come to Singapore during the late 90s for a show, I was a beginner then. The compere asked the crowd which singer they would like to perform. There were a number of established singers, and the crowd started to shout my name "Harini". They wanted me to sing the song from the movie Nerukku Ner. I was very much thrilled then.

9. Where and how did you meet your husband?
I met my husband, Mr. Tippu, in 2001 in Australia in one of Deva Sir's programmes. We thought we could get along well and so we decided to marry.

10. Whom do you attribute your success to?
To my family and to my Gurus Mrs. Radha Viswanathan (Tmt. M.S. Subbalakshmi's daughter), Mrs. Girijha and Mrs. Suguna Purushothaman.

Pop Shalini, a name with fame, is one of the known names in today's music field. Her enchanting melody is what people know her for, but one might get to know her as a writer too, as she says that she has plans to write a book in the future. In this interview, the smart and sweet looking Shalini talks eloquently.

Can you tell us about your family?
I am the only child to my parents and was privileged to have had both my parents' attention wholly on me. I studied in the Holy Angels Convent, Chennai. Since I was five, I have been exposed to western music as I took classes in "Alpha to Omega". Though my parents are interested in music, I am the first-generation singer from the family. I am married and my husband works as a General Manager for a Sweden-based company.

Who initiated you to join the music class?
It was my mother who made all the efforts to craft me into a singer. She would take me to classes, get feedback from the teachers; she made me practice and also encouraged me to perform. So, it was my mother, who took all the initiative.

Are you exposed to any other kind of music?
Yes. I also learnt Hindustani music for eight years and Carnatic music for a year.

How and when did you release your first album?
When I was eleven years old, there was a singing competition in tribute to R.D. Burman. The rule was to sing the songs of the movie 1942: A Love Story in karaoke form and to record an album. I wanted to participate and, with much interest, we had recorded an album. But unfortunately, we could not send the album to Mumbai, then Bombay, as the due date was over. I was so dejected, as I was looking forward to taking part in the competition. It really made me feel sad.

Then what happened?
But my destiny had planned another way. Magna Sounds' Mr. Madhav Das had heard that music album. He was very much impressed by my voice and that happened to be the turning point in my singing career. He came forward to help me release an album, and thus my first pop album was released.

How much does music mean to you?
My level of interest in music is so high that I never get tired of singing. All I know is music and songs, and it has become a part of my life.

What kinds of songs, do you enjoy the most?
Actually, I prefer to sing melodies. When on stage, I prefer to sing fast music as it reaches the audience easily and it is more entertaining.

Which song do you think gave you a break in the cine field?
The "Vai Rajah Vai" song for the movie Panchathathiram (in the year 2000) gave me a good break. I was then recognized for my musical talent.

In how many languages, have you sung?
I have sung in Bhojpuri, Telugu, Hindi, Malayalam, Kannada, Gujarati, Punjabi, Sinhalese, Mythili (language spoken on Nepal border).