Music from the hills

Every artist needs an inspiration and in singer Mohit Chauhan's case, most of it is home-grown. "It's very easy to connect with your soul in such beautiful tranquil surroundings," says Mohit, who grew up in the small town of Nahan in Himachal Pradesh. With hits like Tum Se Hi, Masakali, Tune Jo Na Kaha, Yeh Dooriyan, and the recent Pee Loon and others in his kitty and a new album coming up, it's obvious that the stunning landscape has worked wonders on this Pahadi lad's heart and soul. CS spoke to Mohit about his untrained voice and unexpected success in B-town:

WHO: Mohit Chauhan
WHAT: Talking about nature inspiring his music


On my own
I have always been curious about music, and was blessed with an intrinsic sense of rhythm and melody. My early years were spent listening to the radio, jamming with friends and picking up tunes from every possible source. I used to trek a lot, which exposed me to folk singers and their music. There was no formal training as such. A lot of time was spent on trying to create new notes and tunes.

Frankly, Bollywood was never on my mind. I knew that I wanted people to hear my music but I didn't aspire to become a film playback singer. I guess growing up in a beautiful place like Himachal also helped me. The serene landscape of snow capped hills, rivers, forests and flowers are conducive for creativity. You can contemplate better in such surroundings.

A little lost
My success in Bollywood has been a little surprising for me. I also feel a little out of place with the filmy hullabaloo around me. I love my space; I enjoy being alone, which is not to say I am a complete recluse (laughs). You will see me at concerts and I have also been on reality shows. But I am most comfortable when I am sitting quietly somewhere musing over life, love, death and music. I would not be able to judge for myself if I am a romantic at heart. For me, love is like a journey. It could start probably at a mountain top or a crowded place. I find romance in all beautiful and peaceful things in life.
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Musical magic
I enjoy working with almost every composer. Rahman Sir (AR Rahman) has been a huge inspiration for me, as have people like Pritam, Vishal- Shekhar and others. I guess people want to make you sing songs you did be able to deliver best. I feel there is enough space for every singer in Bollywood. Besides films, I am also coming out with a solo album early next year.

Save The Tiger
So, when I got a chance to associate with the Save the Tiger campaign I took the opportunity. For someone like me, who's spent his life in close proximity with nature, it's disheartening to see the ecological deterioration in our country. The tiger is our natural heritage and we should work at preserving it.