It’s amazing to see India embracing concert culture: Aastha Gill

Pop sensation Aastha Gill, known for hits like DJ Wale Babu, Abhi Toh Party Shuru Hui Hai and Kamariya, was in the city to perform at a cricket tournament. Talking to Bangalore Times exclusively, the Bollywood singer tells us about her journey, struggles and upcoming projects. Excerpts:
‘Raftaar and Badshah have been my biggest supports’
Raftaar bhai was my college senior, and he discovered me while I was singing during a competition. One day, he called me and said he wanted me to sing for a song he was working on. In between, there was a time when I was making music, but I did not like anything. I nearly gave up. But that’s when Badshah bhai showed faith in me. He said, ‘Your career hasn’t started yet and you are talking about ending it. I expect so much out of you.’ This gave me a much-needed push to continue.

‘Music is in my blood; I was destined to be a performer’
Music was always a part of my life. My dad is a music director, my aunts are singers and my grandfather was also a music composer, so it runs in the family. But, I never wanted to pursue it as a career. In fact, I used to run away from it despite learning to sing and play the piano as a kid. But, I think this was my destiny.
‘There’s a lot of competition in this industry; it’s not easy to work here’
One has to struggle a lot to make a name for themselves in this industry. The pressure to prove yourself and make your way to the top is so real. I never dared to dream that I could become a star. But now, I tell young people, ‘do not be scared to dream, because it all starts from there’.