In an era where masculinity is often squeezed into rigid stereotypes, Mika Singh stands tall as an unapologetic original. With a career spanning over two decades and anthems like “Sawan Mein Lag Gayi Aag” and “Mauja Hi Mauja” under his belt, Mika is not just a performer — he’s a movement. Yet behind the high-decibel concerts and chart-topping tracks lies a man deeply rooted in discipline, family, and an unwavering sense of self. He rarely gives interviews, and when he does, it’s never just about the fame. It’s about giving back — to the next generation of artists, to the idea of social good, and to redefining what it means to be a man today. In this candid conversation, Mika Singh speaks not as a celebrity, but as a mentor, a brother, and a man who’s lived every lyric he’s ever sung.
1. Let’s start with a fun one! What’s a typical day in the life of Mika Singh when you’re not performing or recording?
“Typical” is a rare word in Mika Singh’s world.
“When I’m not on stage or in the studio—which is almost never—I enjoy the simpler sides of life,” Mika begins with a smile. “I like jamming with friends at home, fiddling with new melodies, or taking long, late-night drives. There’s a kind of calm in those moments, a contrast to the energy I pour out in live shows.”
But such days are few and far between. “I do nearly 200 shows a year, both across India and internationally. I’m proud to say I am the busiest singer in India,” he says matter-of-factly. “Even during downtime, music never leaves my mind. I can’t sit idle—leisure bores me. That’s why I’ve set up a small recording studio right in my building. I record whenever inspiration strikes.”
And when he’s not behind the mic or the console, Mika’s energy finds other outlets. “I run an NGO called Divine Touch that supports nearly 10,000 underprivileged girls. It’s one of the most meaningful parts of my life. I’m also deeply involved with my music label, Music and Song, through which we’ve launched over 500 new artists. I like to fill the empty pockets of time with something that feels purposeful.”
2. You’ve been in the music industry for 26 years now. What’s one moment in your career that you still think about the most?
Without hesitation, Mika’s voice takes a quieter turn.
“It’s not a single moment, but a feeling that often returns to me,” he reflects. “No matter how much success I achieve, there’s a deep absence I carry—I lost my parents before they could see the heights I reached. We come from a culture that places such profound value on the love and blessings of our parents, and I’ve always been very attached to mine.”
There’s a pause before he continues, “I’m a car enthusiast. I have all these beautiful cars now—ones I used to dream about—but my mother isn’t here to sit beside me in them. That thought lingers. This is like a gardener who nurtures a tree, but never gets to taste its sweetest fruit.”
3. From being a young aspiring artist to now being a household name, can you take us through your journey to stardom?
“My story starts in Durgapur, West Bengal, though most people associate me with Punjab,” Mika says, tracing the arc of his journey with both pride and perspective. “Music was in our blood. My father was a classically trained kirtan singer, and my elder brother Daler Mehndihad already made a name for himself. I grew up watching him, absorbing everything.”
Mika began by singing devotional music and kirtans. That changed with Sawan Mein Lag Gayi Aag. “People pointed out that it had a nasal tone. I didn’t care. My focus wasn’t perfection—it was passion. And maybe that’s what connected. My Rabb had something else written for me.”
His style—unconventional, raw, and authentic—became his greatest asset. “I didn’t have the smoothest voice. I didn’t know how to style my hair. But those very things became part of my identity. My long hair became a trend, and my voice became my signature.”
Mika recalls the days when Rs. 75 was a good earning. “I never chased stardom. I just wanted to improve my ‘today’—from 75 rupees to 500, from 500 to 1000—so I could take care of my family. I never said no to work. Artists today ask about the script, budget, location, and then say ‘talk to my manager.’ I didn’t have that luxury.”
His dedication carried him from humble beginnings—performing at Durga Puja pandals—to sharing stages at global events like IIFA. “I’ve sung my songs so many times that they’ve become anthems. And yet, every time I perform them, it feels just as fresh. That’s the magic of music—and the blessings of fans who’ve stood by me throughout.”
4. You’ve definitely broken a lot of barriers. How did you overcome the initial challenges when you first entered the music industry?
The biggest barrier I broke was self-doubt. I didn’t have a conventional voice or look. I didn’t know what to wear or how to behave like a star, because I was never taught those things. But I realized early on that I didn’t have to be perfect—I just had to be real. My voice had texture, it had character, and most importantly, it had recognition. That was my strength.
I wasn’t chasing stardom—I was chasing excellence. Even when I didn’t have a big plan for my life or career, I started planning my shows seriously because I knew I wanted to be a solid performer. I wasn’t hungry for money, but I was always hungry for hit songs. That hunger has never left me.
I also invested time in learning. I had heard that Bappi da played the tabla beautifully, and Burman saab was excellent on the harmonium. That inspired me. I started learning instruments, and today I can play around 50 of them. I wrote Sawan Mein Lag Gayi Aag, composed it, and even played several instrumental parts on the track myself. When you commit yourself like that, many barriers just break on their own.
5. You’ve been an inspiration to many men, especially aspiring artists. What would you say to men out there who are striving to make a mark in a competitive industry like yours?
This is a great time to be an artist. With so many platforms and digital tools, the stage is wide open. During our time, we had one guru, a few inspirations, and limited access. Today, the horizon is much broader—but so is the competition. To stand out, you need more than talent. You need discipline.
Just like becoming a doctor or engineer requires years of study, music too demands years of commitment. The audience you see cheering on a reality show is responding to a singer’s years of training, not just that one performance. Many new artists become complacent after one hit. But that’s when the real work begins. You have to understand stage presence, audience engagement, how to read a room, how to hold a mic—not just sing a tune.
6. In the world of Bollywood music, things change so rapidly. How do you stay relevant and continue to adapt to the changing times?
Staying relevant is all about being proactive, not reactive. You can’t wait for the trend—you have to anticipate it. I stay in tune with what’s happening globally, not just in Bollywood. I study new styles, work with upcoming artists, and try new sounds. I’ve explored everything—from bhangra to item numbers to soft romantic ballads. Evolution is necessary, but it must align with your identity.
I’ve always believed in reinventing myself without losing what made me, me. Early on, I was known for high-energy tracks with heavy beats, and I still enjoy that, but over time, I’ve added more depth and range.
I was also among the first mainstream artists to perform at weddings. People raised eyebrows back then, but I knew there was a fan base there—people who saw the performer in me, not just the singer. Today, many young artists earn a living and gain loyal followers by performing at weddings, and I’m proud that I helped open that door. You don’t need a string of hits to earn respect—you need presence, consistency, and a bit of daring.
And most importantly, get a job—big or small—because the hardest part is surviving while you’re still struggling to find work. Perform behind established artists, learn the nuances. There’s no shortcut to longevity.
7. What’s one thing that many people don’t realize about the pressures and struggles that men in the entertainment industry face?
The world worships the rising sun. That’s the reality of our industry. And the biggest pressure for any artist—whether a singer or an actor—is to deliver consistently. For a singer, that means hit songs. For an actor, it’s blockbuster films. It’s like chasing a mirage. You may reach one milestone, but the next one always looms.
In this race, it’s easy to lose perspective. But I’ve always tried to stay grounded. When I earned 100 rupees for a show, I was genuinely happy. Today, when I earn a much bigger amount, I’m still the same man at heart. Back then, I rode a cycle and smiled just as wide as I do now driving my dream Hummer. Happiness doesn’t come from what you have—it comes from how you value it. The key is to embrace both the highs and the lows with grace.
8. In your opinion, what are some of the biggest stereotypes about men in Bollywood, and how do you think we can break them down?
Historically, Bollywood has this caricatured image of a hero – macho and stoic. And I believe this stereotype has stuck. Men aren’t allowed to show vulnerability. Breaking this requires leading by example – both in your personal and professional life. There was a time when I was moved to tears during a performance, and while some trolled me, questioning my authenticity, I stood by my feelings. It is time we let go of the burden of maintaining an image. By being open about our struggles and emotions, we can pave the way for a more accepting industry.
9. Fitness is a big part of your lifestyle. Can you share some of the fitness habits or routines you swear by to stay in shape, especially with your busy schedule?
I may not be a fitness influencer, but I do believe in taking care of the body God has given me. Consistency is key. Even when I’m constantly on the move, I carve out time for workouts—cardio, strength training, or just stretching.
There are two things I swear by, and they’re simple. First, don’t underestimate the power of good sleep. And second, always listen to your body—it’s constantly communicating with you. Fitness isn’t about spending four hours in the gym. Look at Gulzar sahab—he’s incredibly fit for his age, and that’s inspiring.
Also, I stay away from bad habits. I don’t overeat, and while I do enjoy a drink once in a while, I keep it moderate. Fitness, for me, is about balance—not just physical, but mental and emotional as well.
10. What’s your take on the growing importance of mental health for men in the entertainment industry? How do you maintain your mental well-being amidst the pressures of fame?
Mental health is just as important as physical fitness—maybe even more in our industry. We’re constantly under the spotlight, always being judged, always trying to stay relevant. That pressure can get heavy.
I’ve learned to take breaks when I need them. I surround myself with people who keep me grounded. I spend time with my family, I create music at my home studio, and I stay connected to things that bring me peace. That’s how I protect my mental space.
One major issue I see today is the growing misuse of recreational drugs. I’ve seen young singers demanding bar setups backstage as if that’s essential to perform. But creativity doesn’t come from getting high—it comes from clarity. If you want to last in this industry, mental wellness should be a priority. Don’t fake the vibe. Protect your mind, and your music will follow.
1. Many young aspiring singers look up to you. What advice would you give to them, particularly those trying to find their own unique voice in such a competitive field?
Stay true to yourself. That’s the most valuable thing you can do as an artist. Don’t try to copy someone else’s tone or style—find your own. In a world full of imitators, being original is your superpower. But that originality should be backed by strong fundamentals. Learn your sur and taal. Understand the science of music—because a weak foundation can’t support a tall building.
Work hard, be patient, and let your passion guide you. This industry is competitive, yes—but the ones who keep pushing forward eventually shine through. Practice daily, even when no one’s watching. I also believe emotional intelligence is important—especially for men. Learn to manage your relationships wisely. And above all, never underestimate the value of a supportive partner or family. That backbone will carry you through storms you didn’t even see coming.
12. Bollywood music has evolved a lot in the past few years. How do you think the changing landscape of the industry is affecting artists like you?
The evolution of Bollywood music has been fascinating to witness. With globalization and digital platforms, our music has reached corners of the world we never imagined. For artists like me, this means adapting, experimenting, and staying ahead of the curve. I’ve always believed in being proactive, not reactive. That’s why I’m still here, still relevant.
I was one of the first to introduce live mashups in my shows—blending different songs in the same raag. It became a trend. Today, those kinds of innovations are necessary. The industry is evolving, yes—but if you keep your ears open and your roots intact, there’s a world of opportunity waiting. I genuinely believe Bollywood music will take over the global stage one day. Our sound is unique, and our artists are fearless.
13. Who are the Bollywood singers or artists you’ve admired the most, and what influence have they had on your own musical journey?
There are many artists I admire, but first and foremost, it has to be my brother—Daler Paaji. His success made a path not just for me, but for many Punjabi artists. He taught me what it means to own a stage, to perform like it’s your last, and to connect with people beyond just the mic.
Then there are legends like Lata Mangeshkar ji, Asha Bhosale ji, Sukhwinder Singh Paaji, and Udit Narayan ji. Each of them brought something unique to the table. Their discipline, dedication, and timeless voices continue to inspire me even today. I’m lucky to have watched, learned, and sometimes even worked alongside such greats.
14. To wrap up, if you had to give one piece of advice to the modern man—whether in the entertainment industry or not—what would it be?
Perseverance is everything. No matter the profession, if you stick to your goal with faith, the universe makes way. I have a small ritual—whenever I want to sing for a certain actor, I chant his name 500 times. I did this with Salman Khan, and I landed Dhinka Chika in Ready. That’s not magic—it’s energy, focus, and belief.
Also, men need discipline. A little strictness in upbringing helps shape character. Even today, I won’t raise a glass of water in front of Daler Paaji out of respect. And to the younger generation—don’t waste your time chasing the wrong things. Stay away from mindless partying, distractions, and flings. Focus on your craft. Your time is your currency—spend it wisely.
