There Is No Alternative To Learning

Andrew Kishore has captivated music lovers with his melodic voice since the '80s, and was once the highest-paid playback singer. In a recent conversation with The Daily Star, the National Film Award winning singer talked about his Christmas plans and more.

Which song put you in the spotlight?

Andrew Kishore: The track “Dak Diachhe Doyal Amare”, composed by Alam Khan in 1982. It gained great popularity.

How much does music matter in your life?

Andrew Kishore: To me, it's more than a prayer. It seems that I'm appearing in the SSC examination everyday when I sing a song.

What do you consider your best achievement as a singer?

Andrew Kishore: People's love and leading a simple life.

You do basically playback for films but rarely sing for audio albums. Why?

Andrew Kishore: I don't feel comfortable on audio. Film songs call out to me. Being the highest paid playback singer for a long time was certainly very satisfying.

What was your first playback?

Andrew Kishore: The track “Ek Chor Jaye Chole” for the movie “Protikhkha”. I started my career as playback singer with that song.

What are your Christmas plans?

Andrew Kishore: Nothing grand. I will celebrate the day with my daughter who is coming to Dhaka from abroad. Later, we plan to go outside Dhaka and enjoy the day.

Any special expectation from Christmas Day?

Andrew Kishore: I just wish for the country's welfare and prosperity.

How did you celebrate the day in your childhood?

Andrew Kishore: During my childhood, I spent my days mostly in Rajshahi. New clothes were a must on Christmas Day and so were food and festivities. We used to have great fun with friends.

What do you think about the singers of the current generation?

Andrew Kishore: They are very energetic. I think they will do very well if they practice more. In my view, there is no alternative to learning.

How do you spend your leisure time?

Andrew Kishore: I hang out with friends and family. You can't become an artiste or writer without having fun time.