Popular singer Dilshad Nahar Kona is presently spending a busy time with playbacks, recordings and stage shows. In a candid conversation with The Daily Star, Kona talked about her current engagements and projects.

How does it feel to return to stage after the pandemic almost destroyed the industry?

Last month, I performed at a stage show in Chittagong, and it felt amazing to return to the stage after about six months.

I felt a little lethargic before getting on the stage. However, as soon as I started performing, everything felt very vibrant and I remembered how much I had missed this feeling. Nonetheless, I missed my octa pad player, Hanif bhai, a lot. He unfortunately passed away in a road accident in March this year.

Are musicians still facing financial difficulties?

Many musicians are indeed facing a financial crisis. However, if there are more stage shows, I am hopeful that they can get back their previous lives.

The amount of playback in films is drastically decreasing, as opposed to television dramas. Do you think this creates an 'identity crisis' among singers? 

Newcomers might face issues like this. However, when you get to a certain level, the issue does not persist. When I sing for a television fiction, it is usually known because of me.

Tell us a bit about your new songs and upcoming stage shows.

A few days ago, I had worked with Imran Mahmudul in the movie "Golui". Emon Saha composed the tune. This has been a very new experience for me. Moreover, I also sang a duet with Rizvi Wahid. Additionally, I had performed in about three stage shows this month.