Renowned singer Neeti Mohan, currently a judge on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2023, delves into topics like mental health, the music industry, sisterhood, and motherhood. Around two decades back, Neeti Mohan emerged victorious in a music talent show, triumphing over numerous aspiring singers, which catapulted her into the world of pop music stardom.
She, along with fellow winners Jimmy Felix, Sangeet Haldipur, and Vasudha Sharma, formed the band Aasma and delivered chart-toppers such as “Chandu Ke Chacha.” During that era, both male and female talents had equal opportunities to join a music band. Today, Neeti takes pride in her flourishing solo career, marked by a string of hits like “Ishq Wala Love,” “Jiya Re,” and “Sau Aasmaan.” However, she asserts that, regardless of the industry, women must exert extra effort to establish their presence.
When Neeti Mohan isn’t lending her voice to songs in Hindi, Tamil, Marathi, Telugu, Kannada, or Punjabi, she can be found gracing the stage, collaborating with her equally talented sisters, or being a dedicated mom. Neeti, a judge on “Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2023,” discusses her experiences, mental health, and various aspects of her life in this interview.
Q. You participated in Popstars two decades ago and now you’re a judge on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. How have these experiences impacted your mental health?
Neeti Mohan: Becoming an artist is a significant mental decision. It entails setting high expectations for oneself, unwavering dedication, discipline, and the willingness to work relentlessly. I promised myself that regardless of success or failure, I’d prioritize mental health. I’m focused on being the best version of myself every day.
Q. What factors do you consider when judging contestants?
Neeti Mohan: While judging, I aim to inspire and encourage every auditioning participant. I know the feeling of waiting in line, taking your turn, and performing under the spotlight. I’ve been a contestant in the past, and now, in 2023, I’m a judge on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa. It’s important to nurture everyone’s dreams because they might not make it this season, but who knows what they can achieve next season? I believe in their potential.
Q. Singers often say that music has a healing effect. How does music help you?
Neeti Mohan: Music is the most significant healer. It’s everywhere, from the sound of raindrops to the melodies I wake up to. I need spiritual music in the morning, Punjabi music while getting ready, and a special playlist while driving. I live for music, singing to my child, recording in studios, and performing on stage. Music is my life.
Q. Have you ever faced gender discrimination in the music industry?
Neeti Mohan: Women often have to work harder to establish their presence, no matter where they are. I believe in being so good that nobody can ignore you. Today, if I feel a song doesn’t have enough lines for females, I raise the issue and suggest adding more lines. I want to connect with the song and express myself fully. Let girls have their perspective in music too.
Q. You’re also known for your dancing skills. Is dancing part of your fitness routine?
Neeti Mohan: I used to be a dancer and love dancing. As a child, it was hard to choose between singing and dancing because I enjoyed both equally. Whenever I can, I indulge in both. I recently collaborated with Madhuri Dixit-ji, a dream come true. I want to be fit, and dancing is fantastic exercise.
Q. What else do you do to stay in shape?
Neeti Mohan: I enjoy working out, doing yoga, weight training, functional training, Pilates, cardio, and sometimes swimming. I want to maintain high energy levels since I have a two-year-old son. Being active helps me keep up with him.
Q. During your pregnancy, you continued to work out. Any advice for expecting moms?
Neeti Mohan: Enjoy your pregnancy—it’s a precious time. I balanced good food with workouts, including yoga and breathing exercises. Staying fit enabled me to have a natural birth, even at a later stage in life. I also did fun activities like duck walks with my husband holding my hand.
Q. What’s your beauty regimen?
Neeti Mohan: Rest and disconnecting from my phone when I’m home are crucial. I bathe twice daily to remove hair spray and makeup. I prefer a clean, healthy diet, and as a vegetarian, I eat plenty of fruits and avoid gluten. These habits help me stay in shape.
Q. You share a strong bond with your sisters (Shakti Mohan, Kriti Mohan, and Mukti Mohan), which isn’t common among adults. What’s the secret?
Neeti Mohan: We were raised in a close-knit family of four sisters. They are my lifeline, and we’re inseparable. Sisterhood is everything to me, and I’m grateful for my sisters.
