A songbird called Nandita
Deep dark kohl eyes, mesmerising smile and a silvery smooth voice- Sanzida Mahmood Nandita has been ruling over our hearts with her soothing performances in Coke Studio with "Darale Duaarey" and "Bulbuli".
Amidst the rainy season, the gorgeous singer dropped by The Daily Star for a hearty conversation.
How did your love for music begin?
My love for music started when I was just 3 and a half years old, my mom wanted me to become a musician, and so I started getting training under Ustad Dilip Majumder. I was so small that I couldn't even play the harmonium properly – he would take me in his lap and helped me play. Sweet memories they were.
An old video from Bangladeshi idol, where judge Mehreen predicted that you will excel, become viral again on social media.
It was really great seeing the video again. I am really happy that I was able to impress people with my recent work so much that they dug out an old video which showcased my journey in showbiz.
Bangladeshi idol was really special and Mehreen mam's comment about me being a 'beautiful soul' stayed with me. I am really thankful to that person who uploaded or shared the audition video. Thanks to them people got to know about my beautiful journey.
Tell us the backstory behind your Coke studio songs "Bulbuli" and "Darale Duaarey".
I started my journey with Coke studio with Shuvendu. He is the music composer of both the songs. At that time, Ritu Raj and I were together at an event, and he approached us to sing "Bulbuli". Thankfully, our song was a hit and everyone who listened to it thought my portion was catchy.
In season 2, I didn't have any time to prepare for "Darale Duaarey", but I still gave my best. Ishaan was amazing in the song, he voiced it with so much ease. While rendering the song, I tried to incorporate a few improvisations. Shounak played the sarengi so perfectly, especially the chord which made it hauntingly beautiful. I remember I couldn't hold my tears while listening to the song.
You are Arifin Shuvoo's 'celebrity crush'. How does it make you feel?
I saw the video and thought it was really cute. My friends tagged me to the post, and didn't know how to reply! He is really sweet.
Do you have any special fan moment to speak of?
I was travelling in Dhanmondi, when a girl approached me. I was wearing a casual tee with mask on my face. She told me that she loves 'Bulbuli' and that she has been a fan since Bangladeshi idol and hugged me. I was feeling sick at that time, but that moment literally gave me goosebumps, as it made me feel special for the first time in a while.
Sanzida Mahmood Nandita's red dress has been sponsored by Oboni. MUA: Farhana Perveen Stylist: Protyasha