“If not a singer I would have been a historian" … Ferdous Ara

Ferdaus Ara has established herself as one of the outstanding Nazrul artistes in the country. A versatile singer, Ferdous has also popularised some patriotic and adhunik songs. She often hosts programmes on Nazrul sangeet as well. Here's a look on the crooner's casual side:

What is your nickname?
Marine.

And your sun sign?
Libra.

What are your recurrent dreams?
Many a time in my dreams, I have gone back to my childhood. Sometimes I have seen myself with a handful of chocolates -- even though I am not particularly fond of sweets.
I have also visualised my name being announced for an award and hurrying to reach the venue -- but I don't know how to get there.

Any ambitions?
Life is too short. There is too little time for achievement. I sometimes feel that I haven't used my time well as an artiste in the media for the last four decades. Basically, I go for quality rather than quantity. Having said that, my first goal is to look after my family and then devote my time to music and only music.

What would you have been if not a singer?
Music is my life but I also love history. I remember particularly my university days when we used to go on excursions to the archaeological sites. It was quite frustrating when we would come across the dilapidated historical monuments in remote areas. These are gold mines, which could be turned into tourist attractions like any other country. Maybe if not a singer I would have been a historian.

What people don't know about you...
I was a champion all along in the inter-college competitions. I was an avid fan of the young Russian gymnastic star Nadia Comaneci and tried to emulate her. And believe it or not, I also used to love boxing.

An interesting story: Once I had gone to Rangamati for a shooting of a music video, directed by Khalid Mohammad Mithu. There I was supposed to climb to a hill top. I had no qualms because of my love for games and the outdoors.
Meanwhile my husband, who was in a boat nearby, expressed his disapproval of my endeavour. Much to his and everyone's surprise, I clambered up easily and even changed my attire and touched up my appearance while precariously balanced on a rock!

What are your prized possessions?
My father, late engineer AHM Abdul Hai, was a renowned classical singer of the early '50s. His old harmonium and four new ones and particularly a sur mandal gifted to my father by the great classical singer Ustad Ayet Ali Khan are amongst my prized possessions.

Are you a shopaholic?
Yes! I love buying exclusive knick-knacks for the house.