The latest entrant in the Indipop scene is an ex boxer and a national champion at that , Maninder Mahi, who describes himself as a singer and a performer rolled into one, promises to present new beat rhythm in Punjabi Pop music scene.

He has managed to create an impact on the music market with his debut album " Hoya Aakh Da Ishara", is HMV's latest release , which hit the stand recently. This talented artist from Punjab inherited his musical nuances from his parents. Trained under the guidance of Pundit Suraj Prakash, his classical background coupled with his vibrant and expressive voice helped him to win accolades. Mahi as he popularly known to all, is not only a singer but also a performer who has been awarded as the best dancer of Punjab University in the 1989-90. Music has been his dream and passion since childhood, which matured as his art matured.

His album "Hoya Aakh Da Ishara" had been in making for nearly two years. The album is a manifestation of the spirit energy, and zest that Maninder Mahi has in him. The music and songs have a combination of different tempo with unique versatility. . That could be adapted at many moods. The music of Hoya Aakh Da Ishara has been arranged and directed by the ace music director Jawahar Wattal.

The track of the album has several hummable tunes and has gathered a large number of audiences in the discotheques and on the music channels. The music video for the song stars Raman Trikha ( of Banegi apni Baat fame).It is well picturized and synchronizes with the pulses of music lovers. " For me this album was not planned. I was initially a stage performer for nearly eight years. This album just came by my way which helped me to reach through my audience and showcase my talent as a singer." Says a proud Mahi.

Incidentally Mahi was initially not a part of his name. When he decided to cut this solo album, Maninder Singh contacted lyricist Sanjiv Anand asking him to give him a catchy name which would help his audience to recognise him easily.

Though Mahi is diving into the singing world with a pop album his heart is in Ghazals and Thumris. "Ghazals are my rooh ki Khurrak (food for the soul), pop is the latest trend that I have begun to follow and I feel it only needs halki tayari (little preparation,)" says Mahi.

Does he consider himself as a part of the pop star mania? To this, the rejoinder is :" I have never been afraid of the rat race in the Indipop scenario. I am very confident about my voice, and consider myself very much a part of the competitive world .

If given a chance would he be interested in singing for the movies? This question evokes a sudden smile on his face. He adds "Though I won't mind experimenting with film singing, but I would not consider that point as the highest achievement in my career as a singer."

Certainly , Mahi does not want to be a mere Punjabi singer, but plans to set a new trend in the music scenario. He believes that after a long struggle and years of dedicated work, his presence is gradually being felt in the music world .For the moment he is gearing up to take the Punjabi pop scenario by storm.

By Piyali Dasgupta