Hargun Kaur Interview
But with so much synthetic content emerging, I believe authenticity will stand out even more in the next decade
Q. You’ve grown from reality-show stages to becoming a recognised voice. What part of that journey shaped you the most as an artist and as a person?
Every stage has shown me a different version of myself. Reality shows taught me discipline, resilience, and how to hold my ground under pressure. Live concerts taught me honesty, because a real audience can sense everything.
And travelling across the country made me realise that music isn’t just a career for me; it’s a form of connection. That mix has shaped who I am today.
Q. You’ve performed in extremely high-pressure environments. What internal mechanism or mental routine helps you stay centred before stepping on stage?
Before stepping on stage, I always pray, that’s what centres and grounds me. Even if I feel butterflies, I take them as a good sign; they keep me alert and never overconfident. But the moment I step on stage and slip into my performance, I become completely fearless.
Afterwards, my routine is simple: I analyse, I express gratitude, and I remind myself to be kind to myself. This industry can be taxing, so I’ve stopped being harsh on myself. I’m just focused on becoming a better version of myself every single day.
Q. Many young artists struggle to find their ‘true voice.’ At what moment did you realise this is the sound you want to be known for?
I’ve grown up listening to a wide range of musical styles, and my sound naturally became an amalgamation of all those influences. But the one thing that truly defines me is my Punjabi rootedness.
That blend of ethnicity with modernity is what makes my voice distinct. I’m consciously shaping that as my signature sound, and continuously working towards refining it.
Q. Your music often blends traditional emotion with contemporary performance. How consciously do you balance authenticity with innovation?
I believe tradition gives me depth, and innovation gives me freedom. I never want to lose the soul of what I sing, but I also love giving it a modern texture. So I let the emotion remain timeless, and the presentation evolve with me.
Q. You’ve been a brand ambassador for social causes. Has using your voice beyond music changed the way you view your role as a public figure?
Being a brand ambassador for the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign was deeply personal for me because it’s a cause I truly believe in. Using my voice for something beyond music made me realise how powerful visibility can be when directed toward meaningful change.
It shifted the way I see my role, not just as an artist, but as someone who can influence conversations that matter. It made me more conscious, more responsible, and more grateful for the platform I have.
Q. In an industry that thrives on virality and speed, how do you prevent the pressure for ‘constant output’ from affecting your artistic integrity?
I remind myself that longevity > velocity. Virality is unpredictable, but sincerity isn’t. I would rather create something meaningful, even if it takes longer, than chase a trend that doesn’t reflect who I am.
Q. What’s one professional mistake you’re grateful for because it redirected you toward a better path?
Mistakes are a natural part of any artistic journey, but I don’t really label them as 'mistakes.' I look at every misstep as learning and growth. So there isn’t one specific professional mistake that stands out for me, each experience has taught me something and shaped the artist I’m becoming.
Q. You’ve performed for diverse audiences across India. What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about Indian listeners and their relationship with music?
Indian audiences feel music with their entire being. They don’t just listen, they relive memories, emotions, celebrations. Every city responds differently, but the depth of connection is the same. That keeps me inspired.
Q. If the next decade of Indian music is going to be defined by one major shift, what do you think it will be and how are you preparing for it?
We’re stepping into a world shaped heavily by AI, and I see it as an incredible tool that artists should absolutely learn and use. But with so much synthetic content emerging, I believe authenticity will stand out even more in the next decade.
Real stories, real voices, and music that comes from lived experience will continue to break barriers. I’m constantly expanding my craft, learning new tools while also protecting the authenticity within me, without getting carried away by external noise.
Q. If your life had a background score, which song would be playing right now and why?
Right now, the background score of my life would be the Coke Studio song “Yeh Sab Tumhara Karam Hai Aaqa, Ke Baat Ab Tak Bani Hui Hai.” In English, it means: “It’s all your grace that everything in my life is still holding together beautifully.” It perfectly reflects the gratitude and alignment I feel at this phase of my journey.
Bio:
Hargun is an Indian singer, lyricist, and composer. The only child of her parents, Hargun was born and brought up in Amritsar, Punjab, and is now putting up in Mumbai to pursue her musical career.
She is an amalgamation of classical and contemporary styles of music, a combine of ethnicity and modernity. She has her own unique texture of voice suited for sufi, folk, western and contemporary styles. She sings devotional music and ghazals very fondly. Her command over harmonium makes her singing more impressive. She has been gifted a mellifluous voice which she has laudably polished with her hard work and endurance.
Interviewed by: Nidhi
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