National Award Winner reveals the “Push” she got from A.R. Rahman

National Award Winner reveals the “Push” she got from A.R. Rahman

Shashaa Tirupati received her National Award for “Vaan Varuvan” from Kaatru Veliyidai, AR Rahman also won two National Awards this year — for the songs of Kaatru Veliyidai and the background score of MOM. Shashaa admitted to being more excited about Rahman winning two awards, forgetting her own accomplishment. Her unmasked admiration shines through as she spoke of Rahman, her mentor, in between long pauses as she frantically searched for the right phrases to express her gratitude.

“I was nothing when Rahman sir took me in under his wings. And, I feel “Vaan Varuvan” is so gorgeous that anyone could have sung it and won an award for it. It is completely Rahman sir.” And, when Rahman congratulated her for the win and told her that the award is a product of her hard work and perseverance, Shashaa told him that it was Rahman’s faith in her voice and abilities. “He has pushed me beyond what I thought I could do. I never thought I could sing things that sir has made me sing, like a Naane Varugiren.”

Also Read : A.R. Rahman shortlisted for World Soundtrack Award 2017

Shashaa might be humble but there is no denying that she can truly enchant with her voice and beautifully intricate aalaps — a feature that has been part of several of her chartbusters. Take “Naane Varugiren”, or “Paranthu Sella Vaa” or “Raasali”. It began with wanting to be able to sing difficult pieces, listening to it online and practicing it diligently. “When I was really young, it was more about showing off. But that is how it began,” she said with a chuckle.

Honoured, humbled and given a huge responsibility with the National Award for Best Playback Singer: Vaan Varuvaan. Grateful beyond words to my guiding light @arrahman Sir, the jury, my family and all of you for the love. Miles to go! #NationalFilmAwards #NationalAwards2018 pic.twitter.com/8I8a8X287B

— Shashaa Tirupati (@sashasublime) April 13, 2018

Another defining moment in Shashaa’s musical journey was when she decided to drop out of a pre-medical course in Canada to pursue music full-time. Listening to AR Rahman’s “Dum Tara”, Shashaa decided that singing was what she wanted to do. A huge fan of Rahman, the songstress had worshipped him for years. So, one can imagine her delight when she not only got her big break with the legend but also her first National Award for his song! “I get incredibly overwhelmed when someone asks me about my experience with AR Rahman sir. Gratitude is the first thing that hits me — for a girl from Canada to come to Mumbai, with no contacts, and get a break with someone whom she has worshipped for years? And getting my first National Award with the same person, it feels unreal,” gushed Shashaa.