Playback singer Palak Muchhal is best known for voicing super hit songs like "Meri Aashiqui" from Aashiqui 2, "Laapata" from Ek Tha Tiger, and "Kaun Tujhe" from M.S. Dhoni: The Untold Story among others. She recently released her new song “Kya Kiya Hai Tune” in collaboration with Armaan Malik and Amaal Malik.
What does music mean to you?
Music has always been a medium for me through which I can bring a difference in people's lives and I got this realisation at a very early age. It's like a superpower for me. I always knew that it's not just a hobby or a career but much more than that. Through music, I've been able to save lives.
When I was 6, and Kargil War was going on, my mom would recite newspapers to me every single day, and she’d tell me a lot of people are coming forward and donating for the soldiers. I told her I wanted to as well, and she let me because she thought as a kid I should be encouraged. I went to the shops around my house and would tell the shopkeeper uncle that ‘I would sing “Aye Mere Watan Ke Logon” for you, please donate something’. I managed to collect Rs 25,000 and that's when music made me feel powerful.
What motivated you to use your skill for a cause?
The intention of helping others is always there in all of us but the opportunity to convert that intention into action is something that I got. No matter how much you work or how many awards you get, or whatever heights you reach in your life when you bring a smile on somebody's face and you know that you are the reason behind that smile, that happiness is unmatchable. I have experienced that happiness in my life first-hand, and that feeling is my inspiration and something that keeps me motivated.
One life lesson you’ve always held on to
Just when I was entering the film industry, my mom told me that always set your priorities clear. Hence, I have always put forth my values and principles over work, and that's been the biggest lesson.
Your thoughts on music reality shows
People often get confused between reality shows and film singing. It's not necessary that if you've participated or won a reality show, you're going to get a break in the film industry. It's a completely different world. Even if you're at the top of a show you might have to start from scratch. It's not a ticket to the film industry. Sometimes people notice you and bring you from there into the industry and make you sing but that's not a sure thing to happen.
With a plethora of singers creating content, do you feel competitive?
It may sound a bit cliche but my competition has always been with myself. I would want to sing better today than yesterday and tomorrow than today. I want to get evolved with every song and that's my ultimate focus.
How do you handle criticism?
Fortunately, I have received very little. In fact, even on social media, there's almost zero per cent of negativity and I truly feel blessed for that. But again, if it's constructive criticism it's always welcome.
