Anushka Baduwal: With Originals Like Tum, Nagmein, and Aura, She Has Made A Mark on the Indie Scene (Singer-Songwriter)

Anushka Baduwal Interview

"Writing my thoughts on paper slowly turned into writing songs — almost without me realizing it — and that’s how my journey began."

1. What inspired you to start your journey as a singer and songwriter?

Since my early teenage years, I found it hard to express my feelings openly. I often felt people didn’t have the time to listen or understand me. Music became my safe space — listening and singing around the clock kept me going. I’ve always carried a lot of love in my heart and wanted to share it with the world, but communication wasn’t my strength. Writing my thoughts on paper slowly turned into writing songs, almost without me realizing it — and that’s how my journey began.

2. Your song “Tu Hi Mera” is quite heartfelt. What’s the story behind it?

Interestingly, “Tu Hi Mera” is entirely based on imagination. I merged two perspectives — my own and that of an imagined lover. The song conveys how I see the person I love as my source of happiness and healing. On a deeper level, it’s also about my yearning to experience that kind of love myself one day.

3. What challenges have you faced as an independent artist?

The biggest challenge has been managing finances. I’ve performed at live music events to sustain myself, but mostly by singing existing songs rather than my own. Even after four years of writing original music, financial constraints have slowed down my releases. I’m still saving up and searching for collaborators who share my vision, so I can finally perform and release my own songs on larger platforms.

4. How do you balance sharing personal moments and your music on Instagram?

When I first started, I posted my original songs for two years, but they didn’t get much traction because people didn’t know the stories behind them. I was always quite private, which made it harder for listeners to connect with me. At 17, I realized I needed to open up more, so I began sharing the emotions and stories behind my songs. Even today, finding the right balance between being personal and professional feels like an ongoing challenge.

5. Who are some artists or people that influence your songwriting style?

Surprisingly, no particular artist has influenced my style. I began writing songs as a child, without much exposure to music structures or techniques. Over time, I’ve explored literature, poetry, and countless songs, but my process hasn’t changed. I still write whatever I feel, exactly the way I feel it.

6. What’s a non-music passion or activity that brings you happiness?

Apart from music, my biggest source of happiness is watching anime. I love everything about Japanese culture — its animation, characters, voices, and storytelling. Whenever I’m unwell or unable to make music, I turn to anime. It never fails to bring me comfort and joy.

7. Fun one — If you could collaborate with any Bollywood or international singer for a dream duet, who would it be and why?

Without a doubt, Zayn Malik. He’s the reason I started dreaming about singing and songwriting. His music and voice inspired me to believe that I, too, could find my place in this world through music. Performing a duet with him would be a dream come true.

Bio:

Anushka Baduwal is an independent rapper and singer-songwriter from Rishikesh, India. Her music blends rap, hip-hop, and soulful melodies with heartfelt storytelling. With originals like Tum, Nagmein, and AURA, she has quickly made her mark on the indie scene. Active on Spotify, YouTube, and Apple Music, Anushka continues to grow a loyal fanbase. Guided by her mantra “Rap, Hustle, Repeat,” she embodies the new wave of fearless and authentic Indian music.

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Interviewed by: Niyati Gupta

Edited by: Shantanu Singh