Aditi Paul: Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s passion for cinema and music is truly inspiring – Exclusive | – Times of India

Following her success on Indian Idol, Aditi Paul‘s career gained momentum as she ventured into the world of playback singing in Bollywood. With a background deeply rooted in classical music, Aditi received formal training in Indian classical vocals from renowned maestros such as Pandit Ajay Chakraborty and Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan.
In an exclusive interview with ETimes, Aditi candidly shared her journey, her working experience with Sanjay Leela Bhansali, AR Rahman and MM Keeravani and lending her voice to her latest song Noodle Sa Dil.
You were among the top 10 singers on Indian Idol. How did the singing reality show help you make your dreams come true?
Indian Idol provided me with a national platform and instant recognition, giving me a household identity. However, what truly matters to me is my growth as a singer and musician. I believe in competition with oneself, constantly striving to learn and explore new horizons in my craft.
Are you still in contact with the contestants?
Yes, I am still in touch with many of them, including Abhijit, Prajakta, Amit, Vishal, and Harish Bhaiya. The bonds formed during our time on the show are truly special.
Ang Laga De from Ram Leela became immensely popular. What was your experience working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali and lending your voice to Deepika Padukone?
Working with Sanjay Sir was surreal. His passion for cinema and music was truly inspiring, and I learned a lot from him. Ang Laga De captured the fiery chemistry between Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh, and I am grateful to have been a part of such an iconic project.

You also lent your voice to Veeron Ke Veer in Baahubali 2. How did you land the opportunity to sing for MM Keeravani?
I had sung for Keeravani sir in a Telugu film before Baahubali 2. He promised me the opportunity to sing a romantic song, which turned out to be Veeron Ke Veer.
Tell us about working with AR Rahman in Lingaa and what you learned from him.
Working with AR Rahman sir was a surreal experience. His mastery in music production and his unique soundscape are truly inspiring. I learned a lot from him during the recording of Lingaa.
Since you come from a classical background, who are your inspirations among legendary Indian singers?
I have been fortunate to learn from maestros like Pandit Ajay Chakraborty Ji and Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan Sahab. Currently, I am learning from Pandit Bhavdeep Jaipurwale Ji. Legends like Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan Sahab, Ustad Salamat Ali Khan Sahab, and Pandit Bhimsen Joshi Ji inspire me immensely.

Tell us about your experience recording Noodle Sa Dil for Varun Grover‘s debut directorial All India Rank.
Recording Noodle Sa Dil for All India Rank was an exhilarating experience. The quirky lyrics penned by Varun Sir perfectly complement the film’s narrative, and the composition by Mayukh Mainak added a breath of fresh air to the album. Working on this project, especially under the direction of Varun Sir himself, was truly incredible, blending creativity, technical skill, and teamwork to enhance the movie’s emotional impact.
What reality check did you receive before and after working in the music and film industry?
I have learned to strive for better opportunities while being content with what I have achieved so far. Continuous practice and learning are essential for growth in this industry.
What do you do when you’re not singing, and how do you maintain the quality of your voice?
When I’m not singing, I enjoy playing the sitar, gardening, traveling, and spending time with animals. Regular practice and overall well-being contribute to maintaining the quality of my voice.