Entertainment: Alisha Chinai reclaims her voice

For a voice that once redefined Indian pop, silence was never surrender. Alisha Chinai’s return isn’t a nostalgic cameo, it’s a conscious re-entry, fuelled by instinct, conviction and unfinished music.The spark came unexpectedly. “It was a phone call from Shamir Tandon,” she says. “He spoke about recreating Kishore Kumar’s duet songs, two of my absolute favourites. I was all excited to kiss the microphone again.”That excitement carried into Ek Aur Baar Kishore Kumar, where Alisha revisited classics not as a tribute act, but as a performer fully present in the moment. “It was an absolute delight singing these unforgettable melodies. It felt like I had gone back in time… back into that moment,” she recalls.“I sang Kya Yahi Pyaar Hai with renewed freshness and romance and Nahi Nahi with that teasing, naughty seduction that’s built into the lyrics and notes. It was magical.”There’s a reason she connects so deeply with Kishore Kumar, beyond the music. “Eccentric, genius, multi-talented and totally misunderstood, that’s a lethal combination,” she says candidly. “And yes, a lot of that reflects in me too.” Alisha doesn’t shy away from addressing perceptions. “People say I’m arrogant, which I am not. I’m confident, reassured, I believe in myself. And I will always stand up for myself and for the truth.”Having witnessed the industry’s journey from vinyl records to viral reels, she has strong opinions on what’s been gained and lost. “Technology has slowly killed the real artiste,” she states bluntly. “The magic, warmth, melody, depth and sincerity have taken a backseat. Today it’s about production, 15 minutes of fame and chasing money.”Yet, she isn’t dismissive of the present moment. She acknowledges the shift, even if she remains wary of it. “Made in India was a pop anthem, the largest-selling album in Indian history. It revolutionised the music industry,” she says. “Now social media has revolutionised the modern music world. Unknown artistes pop up from everywhere.”The problem, she feels, is longevity. “Attention spans are limited and impatient. Fame is short-lived unless you show true talent and consistency. That’s why live performances are hotter than ever… because it’s Live.” Her advice to young musicians is simple and hard-earned. “Just hang in there,” she says. “Success and fame take time. Don’t give up on your dreams.”Despite stepping away from the spotlight for years, Alisha is clear that the break was necessary.“It was partly burnout and partly disillusionment with the industry’s work ethics,” she admits. “The system sucks for singers and musicians. I didn’t want to fight it anymore…it wasn’t worth it.” At the time, she adds, her solo career was booming. “Made in India kept me busy touring. I was fulfilled.”Today, she’s listening closely and selectively. “I love Arijit Singh and Zubeen Garg,” she says. “Their voices are incredible. They have that magical star quality.”As for collaborations, her ambition remains global. “A collab with Adele would be a dream,” she smiles.Beyond Made in India, there’s one song she holds especially close. “Tinka Tinka,” she says simply. “Ethereal and timeless.”And yes, new music is on the way. “I’m working on a new album project and will be releasing songs soon,” she confirms.If Made in India were to be reborn today, Alisha believes it wouldn’t need forced reinvention. “The right beat at the right time will recreate its own style,” she says. “That’s how real music works.”Decades on, Alisha Chinai isn’t chasing relevance, she’s reclaiming space. On her terms.

Entertainment: Alisha Chinai reclaims her voice

Gurnaaz

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