Singer/actress/TV host, Komal Rizvi has been in showbiz since the age of 16. Not only has she starred in hit serials and been a popular VJ but she also sung the oft played bhangra ditty Baooji back in ‘97, as well as pop and folk songs since then. Rizvi is all set to make a comeback with her new release Hello Ji. Komal tells Sana Zehra what it’s like being a female singer in Pakistan
Does Hello Ji have a message you want to share with your fans?
Yes, indeed. Hello Ji stands for all those people who love doing something or love someone but fear failure or rejection. The message in this song is that times have changed, don’t fear anyone or anything.
“Jo kehna hai kaho ji†(Say whatever you have to say.)
You have been described as “outspoken, energetic, bubbly†and as an “an all-rounder.†What do you feel when you hear people describing you in these terms?
I really don’t consider myself outspoken at all. I suppose it’s all relative. There are so many things I would like to talk about but I have to be politically correct for the sake of my family or the society. But yes, I am energetic and bubbly and that’s how I would like to remain always — positive and happy. Life is too short to take yourself too seriously.
The music industry still seems to be largely dominated by men. Do you think the industry is afraid of strong and independent women? If yes, how does it show? What are some personal experiences you have in this regard?
The industry is changing, but super slowly. It’s about time women artistes should be taken more seriously. We have to work harder. It’s true that women are dealt a lot of “Get out of jail free†cards. So being a woman has both advantages and disadvantages. I, for one, am extremely proud of being a woman. I would not have wanted it any other way.
Do you Google yourself or read what the internet has to say about you or do you feel like it’s better to not pay attention to these things?
Mostly, I try to not hear or read too much criticism because it does take a toll on my level of optimism and motivation, but it’s very hard to not be aware of any trolling whatsoever. Someone or the other in the industry feels the need to make you aware of your failings eventually.
You travel a lot for work. How do you keep your work-life balance?
Since I only work, and spend all my free time with the family, I sometimes have to really force myself to have some “Me†time. In fact, I have now made it a ritual to keep my mornings to myself. It has made a huge difference in my life and my state of mind. My meditation and my riyaaz is key to my inner peace and sanity.
How has your musical journey shaped you in becoming who you are today?
I shape my musical journey. My musical journey does not shape me.
Do you have someone special in your life?
Not yet!
What is one of the biggest misconceptions about you?
That I am a snob
Were any of your songs written to symbolize any life event?
I have over 100 released songs over the course of my career. So yes, a lot of them I have written and composed are relevant to an event in my life.
How do you feel about the way people interpret your songs?
At the moment I’m doing light, fun songs because I believe this country needs some women doing music that can uplift the mood. At some point, I want to do serious music too, but I’m not into the mood for that just yet.
What has been the most enjoyable song you have sung and why?
I like singing Tu Beh Gaya a lot. Rock ballads are just up my alley.
Ever considered joining a band?
Nope
What is your favourite song that isn’t your own?
Unchained Melodies
Any message for your fans?
Stay positive. Keep learning, self-improving and challenging yourself. Grow. Become a light for yourself and others. Stay strong. Stay cool. Pakistan Zindabad!
