Chand Sadhwani Interview
Q. You describe yourself as someone 'born for music.' If music weren’t your profession, what would it still be in your life as a refuge, a discipline, or a form of prayer?
I believe the most honest answer is that without music, God wouldn’t have given me birth at all. Music is not just something I do; it is the very reason for my existence. It is my refuge in difficult times, my discipline in daily life, and my form of prayer. My life, in every sense, is my music.
Q. You move fluidly between composing, directing, and singing. Which role brings you closest to your most honest creative self, and why?
Composing music brings me closest to my truest creative self. Creating something entirely new feels like nourishment for my soul. It gives me a deep sense of peace and fulfillment, as if I am aligning with my inner self through sound and emotion.
Q. Your work often reflects a strong spiritual and cultural consciousness. How does spirituality shape your creative decisions, not just your beliefs?
I follow the teachings of Lord Shree Krishna, and those teachings guide me in every aspect of my life. They influence not only my beliefs but also my creative decisions, helping me remain grounded, balanced, and truthful in my work.
Q. In a time when patriotism is often loud and performative, your musical expressions feel measured and sincere. What responsibility do artists carry when engaging with national identity through art?
I was deeply shaken when I reflected on today’s reality—how we sleep peacefully in our homes while the Indian Armed Forces spend sleepless nights protecting civilians. Keeping this emotion close to my heart, I felt compelled to express my gratitude through music and my voice. Even if my contribution feels small, it comes from a place of genuine respect and responsibility.
Q. When starting a composition, what comes first for you the emotion, the melody, or the message?
When I sit down to compose, I always give preference to the melody. For me, melody becomes the foundation upon which emotion and message naturally unfold.
Q. The music industry today is driven by reels, virality, and speed. How do you protect depth and musical integrity in such a fast-paced ecosystem?
I simply follow my heart and listen to my inner voice. Staying true to myself helps me preserve depth and integrity, regardless of external trends or pressures.
Q. As a woman navigating music direction and production, what are the invisible challenges that rarely get discussed publicly?
I believe challenges exist for everyone, regardless of gender. However, things are improving now. With the rise of social media and multiple platforms, there is space and audience for all kinds of music. It truly feels like a great time for artists today.
Q. What kind of listener do you create for someone who listens casually, or someone who listens deeply? And does that choice affect your work?
Every artist naturally craves deep attention for their creation. When that attention is showered, I feel grateful. When it isn’t, I accept it as the Almighty’s will. It doesn’t disturb me, and it doesn’t change the way I approach my work.
Q. Indian music carries centuries of emotional memory. How do you balance tradition and innovation without diluting either?
As you said, Indian music carries centuries of emotional memory, and I’ve been listening to it since a very young age. It has become deeply inbuilt within me. When I compose, this balance emerges almost instinctively. The blend of tradition and innovation happens naturally.
Q. What is one mistake from your early career that fundamentally reshaped how you approach music today?
I wouldn’t call it a mistake, but I do wish I had taken digital platforms more seriously earlier. Much of my music, which is still in my bank, could have reached listeners much sooner. That said, everything has its own timing. Independent artists are rising now, and I’m actively working on several singles. I’m truly excited about this phase.
Q. With AI-generated music and algorithm-driven discovery on the rise, what do you think will remain irreplaceably human in music-making?
Humans possess an emotional depth that AI simply cannot replicate. That emotional connection will always remain uniquely human.
Q. If your life were a film, which one song your own or someone else’s would you want playing during the end credits?
f my life were a film, the most suitable song would be Jo Mile Hai Pal, composed and sung by me. I truly believe that life exists in the present moment—jeevan isi pal mein hai.
Bio:
Born in Jharkhand and raised in Kolkata in a Sindhi family, she showed an early inclination toward music, composing her first melody at the age of 11. By 18, she released her debut album with Universal Music, marking the beginning of her professional journey. She went on to work in Bengali cinema, the Marathi film Shortcut, and the Hindi film Jaane Kyun De Yaaron. Her repertoire also includes multiple independent singles, devotional bhajans alongside Bhajan Samrat Shri Anup Jalota, and pop collaborations with labels such as T-Series and Viola Digi.
Interviewed by: Nidhi
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