'Chithralayam', Malayalees pride K S Chithra turns 60

Veteran singer K S Chithra turns 60 on 27th. Chithira is her birth star. A conversation with the blessed singer in this occassion.

Every single day of ours is blessed with the sweet voice of Chithra. She always wears a sweet smile on her face just like the her sweet sound. Chithra shares her thoughts on her 60th birthday with Kerala Kaumudi. She starts by saying about people who have influenced her musical journey.

Father (Krishnan Nair)

He was my first teacher. He wanted me to become a singer more than anything. My father was a singer himself, but he didn't get many opportunities in the field. He was a school teacher and participated in many art programs at that time. My father was my backbone, and I often think about the sacrifices he made for me. My life is a result of his dedication and support.

Mother (Shanthakumari)

She was like any other strict mother. She instilled discipline and taught me the value of life. She has been my greatest teacher.

Sister

My sister K.S. Beena studied music before me and became a singer first. I started singing after hearing my sister teach me. She was in the audience, supporting me, correcting me. Her approval boosted my confidence. She means the world to me.

Brother

My younger brother Mahesh plays the guitar. He was quite mischievous in childhood but has become a wonderful person now. I'm grateful for their prayers, which have contributed to our well-being.

Vijay Shankar

My husband is the one who takes decisions in everything, whether it's about music or life choices. He played a significant role in my decision to stay in the industry and pursue my career. Vijayan chettan has been a tremendous support throughout my journey in the music industry.

Nandana

She has brought immense fortune into my life. She lived happily with us for eight years before God took her away. She made many adjustments for me and even when I was away for concerts, she managed well. I miss her dearly.

Anandam (Vijay Shankar's mother)

She has always treated me with love and care, even more than her own daughters. She has been incredibly supportive and it saddens me that she's no longer with us.

M G Radhakrishnan

He made me sing for a two-year-old named Unnikrishnan when I was just five. He took me to Akashavani for an audition. I sang in the movie "Kummatti" and later in the movie "Radha," which marked the beginning of my musical journey with my sister.

Omanakutty

I feel proud to say that Omana Chechi was my teacher. I studied under her for seven years after receiving the National Talent Search Scholarship. I provided vocal support for many concerts and felt like a member of her family.

K J Yesudas

My first song with Dasettan was in the movie "Njan Ekanaan." It was a turning point in my life. Other music directors started noticing me and calling me to sing after that. I am deeply indebted to him for giving me that opportunity.

Ilayaraja

I sang for the first time in Tamil for Raja Sir (Ilayaraja) in the movie "Nokketha Doorath Kannum Nattu." Singing alongside him was a significant recognition in my career, and it opened doors for me to sing in Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada.

Latha Mangeshkar

Lathaji's voice has been familiar to me since I was born. Singing with her and S.P. Balasubramaniam in Chennai was a memorable experience. I had the privilege of singing in front of Lathaji at her 75th birthday celebration in Bombay. Speaking to her on the phone, especially on her 88th birthday, was a blessing for me. I was later honored with the Latha Mangeshkar Award named after her.

Bluebirds Orchestra

I began participating in concerts at a young age with the Bluebirds Orchestra, which inspired me greatly. I also sang for small clubs, arts clubs, and the University Youth Festival. It was a wonderful learning experience.

When did you decide that singing was your career?

My decision to become a singer wasn't planned; it just happened gradually. Singing for various music directors and receiving positive feedback made me realize that this could become my profession.

Happiest moment as a singer

The happiest moments as a singer are when the music director appreciates my work and expresses satisfaction. Such moments bring joy not only to me but to everyone involved.

To new singers

I used to sing with a lot of new talents earlier. Now with the advancements in technology and all, it is a bit tough for me. Some music directors complain that new singers come to the studio without a pen or paper. They should remember that music is our gift and it is the source of our living. Dedicate time and effort to practice and treat singing as a profession with respect.

Favourite songs of favourite singers

I can’t say a single song. I love to listen a lot of songs of my favourite singers.

Changes brought into food habits

As I was trained by Dasettan and other legends like him, I tend to avoid cold things as they can affect my voice. From childhood itself, cold food like icecreams was not in my house. I am not that fond of such things. I avoid any food that causes trouble to health like spicy, oily and sour foods especially on the days I have a recording or a concert.

Hopes for the future

I am a person who believes in the philosophy of ‘Take life as it comes’. No matter whatever I wish for, I will only get what I am destined to get. I belive in this philosophy.

Dearest friends

There are about five friends who are close to me. As they know my busy schedule, there is no constant communication. We try to get together atlest once a year.

If there is a rebirth

I haven’t thought about this yet. I wish to be a singer.