Sanjeev Raina, an alumnus of National High School and Gandhi Memorial College, is a dedicated individual who excels both in his professional role as Vice President at Archidply Industries Limited and his passion for singing. He is known for his unwavering commitment and focused approach in all aspects of his life. With a positive outlook, Sanjeev has actively contributed to the preservation of Kashmir’s culture. Recently, he engaged in a conversation with Rajesh Prothi, the Managing Partner of Absolute Factor and the Founder of www.thecherrytree.in, discussing their shared dedication to promoting and cherishing the rich cultural heritage of Kashmir.
Can you tell us about your background and how you first discovered your passion for singing?
Like many children, I completed my 10+2 Standard from National School and Gandhi College, Srinagar and went to Bangalore to pursue computer studies. However, my passion for singing had already ignited during my school days. I eagerly used to participate in all school functions and events. As I grew up, I joined a music institute to further hone my skills, but circumstances led me to discontinue my formal training. Nevertheless, the fire of passion within me kept me connected to music, always finding ways to indulge in it.
It is not an easy task to hold on to your audiences and their tastes may differ from what you present on stage. How do you coup up with this challenge?
Indeed, this is one of the biggest challenges any artist may face. I would not hesitate to call it a singers nightmare. It took me time, but I was able to find a solution. Now, I only plan my first song and then it is all about the flow which is determined by the audience.
I’ve noticed that sometimes, when an artist is performing, the audience engages in side conversations, indicating that they may not be enjoying the selection of songs. To bridge this gap, I often ask my audience what they would like me to sing. This approach has worked very well with me and also it creates an emotional connection with the audience, and each person present can enjoy every moment of the performance.
For a singer, it is very crucial to maintain the health and strength of the voice. Is there true and what it your formula?
It depends from singer to singer. Personally, I don’t follow any extensive vocal training or warm-up routines. However, to keep my voice healthy and strong, I simply avoid consuming things that may irritate my throat, such as tomatoes, ice creams, or excessively cold items. This is my case. I have also come across many singers, who are just opposite to the regime I follow just opposite to mine.
Everyone is influenced or they look up to someone in the area of their interest. Who has been your muse?
Since my college days, I have been a devoted listener of the legendary singer Jagjit Singh Ji. I remember the time when his iconic albums like “Arth” and “Saath Saath” were released.
Jagjit Singh Ji’s mesmerising voice became a tremendous inspiration for me. I remember singing those ghazals with my college friends, and I cannot overlook the immense support and guidance I received from our own Kashmiri Sur Samrat, Vijay Malla Ji. We shared a personal bond that I dearly miss.
Any childhood memory which is still there, fresh in your mind of the time when the environment is Kashmir was more secular?
It’s difficult to capture a single memory since my mind is brimming with numerous beautiful recollections from my childhood. Growing up in Kashmir, I experienced a unique and harmonious blend of cultures. While there were occasional awkward moments also, overall, my generation fondly reminisces about that era and the co-existence of diverse communities.
How do you preserve and promote your Kashmiri culture in your daily life?
Around ten years ago, a group of friends and I initiated a Talent Hunt program called “Gaashtarukh” for the younger generation. Our primary aim was to reconnect them with our language, culture, and traditions, ensuring that they remain rooted in our heritage.
Initially, many people doubted our efforts since these kids were growing up in a different environment and rarely spoke Kashmiri. Teaching them to sing Kashmiri songs presented a significant challenge. However, we persevered, and I am immensely proud to say that our entire team at JKVM (Jammu and Kashmir Vichar Manch) made it happen. Today, we have a vibrant group of 30-40 young singers who are taking our culture to new heights. This achievement truly fills my heart with joy and serves as the best way to preserve and promote our culture.
How difficult was it to adjust to cosmopolitan culture?
As I mentioned earlier, I left Srinagar in 1988 to pursue my studies in Bangalore. Living in a hostel, I had already got exposure to coexisting with students and friends from different states and cultures. Therefore, adapting to a cosmopolitan culture was not as challenging for me.