Young guns of Kollywood 7 Jul 2008, 0001 hrs IST,TNN Print<http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/msid-3203349,prtpage-1.cms> EMail <javascript:openWindowmail('/mail/3203349.cms');> Discuss New Bookmark/Share <javascript:void(0)> Save<javascript:showdivlayer('3203349','t','close');> Write to Editor<http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India_Buzz/Young_guns_of_Kollywood/articleshow/3203349.cms#write> <javascript:openslideshow('/slideshow/3203385.cms')> <javascript:openslideshow('/slideshow/3203385.cms')> READY FOR A SHOT: Krish, Haricharan and Ranjith (TOI Photo) On a breezy evening, we met the trio who spoke about their journeys to stardom.
"I used to perform in small associations and won several prizes. Later, I learnt Carnatic music," Ranjith, who initiated the conversation said. Haricharan, who also has a musical background, chipped in. "My grandfather had a sabha. I have been learning Carnatic music for the past 14 years. My father introduced me to classical music." However, Krish had a different tale to narrate altogether. "I never learnt music but I listened to a lot of music at home. My family members encouraged me to take up singing. They were also my first critics," he added. Ranjth, who has been mesmerising the audience for almost half-a-decade now, got nostalgic when reminded of his first song. "I made my debut with Hey Penne in Aasai Aasaiyai. I was thrilled to see my name on the CD. A lot of FMs were launched at that time and I was excited to hear my voice on radio." For Haricharan, the Kollywood journey began in 2004 with Unakkena Iruppen... from Kaadhal, which was a super hit. "My friends did not believe me when I said that I was the one who had sung the number. Only when they saw my name on the CDs and cassette did they accept the truth. I went to the theatre with my friends for the movie and every time, my song was played, my friends leapt with joy." Every singer shares a special relationship with the music directors who introduce them to the industry. And these singers are no different. "I admire Harris Jayaraj. Working with him helped me identify his real personality. He is down-to-earth and concerned about others," said Krish. Ranjith, while commenting on his mentor Mani Sharma, said, "I lived in Mani's studio. His passion for music is amazing. He never compromises with his tunes. "I also loved working with A R Rahman. I am glad to have participated in two of his live shows, Unity of Light and Three Dimensional Tour," he added. Haricharan, for his part, praised Joshua Sridhar. "I share an excellent rapport with Joshua and feel free to work on my songs. I also loved working with Dharan in Parijatham," he added. While there are several people who feel that music reality shows on television provide youngsters an opportunity to get into the film industry, these three disagree. Commenting on the issue, Haricharan said, "I participated in Sapthaswarangal. Earlier, there was pure competition among the participants. But, now these shows are flooded with lavish prizes and popularity determines your success." Ranjith too had a similar opinion. "Even though I had been a part of Sapthaswarangal, I had to begin from scratch in the film industry. I was picked from the chorus. I believe that the individuality of a person counts. These shows put you in a place where you never belong. There is no shortcut to success," pointed out Ranjith. When asked about the reason for the increasing number of young singers in Kollywood, Krish instantly reacted, "All credit goes to A R Rahman. He came at the right time and did the right thing." Haricharan felt that the current music directors were ready to experiment with new voices. Bollywood has always had a fascination for singers from the south. Would they be willing to sing in Bollywood? "Singing at the national level is not an easy task. But I would love singing in Hindi," said an eager Ranjith. "If Bollywood beckons me, I would definitely sing," added Krish. Haricharan however did not seem to be fascinated by Bollywood. "I prefer what I am doing now," said the proud Tamil singer. On their dreams, Ranjith said, "I want to sing more, experiment and perform in more live shows." Haricharan seemed to be more interested in music albums. "I want to bring out my own album," he said. "I want to become an actor, earn more money, buy a BMW and pay off all my loans," concluded Krish. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/India_Buzz/Young_guns_of_Kollywood/articleshow/3203349.cms -- regards, Vithur HELP EVER; HURT NEVER; LOVE ALL; SERVE ALL
