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From serving in the police department to winning the Indian Idol Season 3, it was quite a journey for Prashant Tamang. While continuing to do what he loves- singing, the talented artiste has also carved a niche himself as an actor and acted in several movies. Eastern Mirror caught up with him during his recent trip to Nagaland.
EASTERN MIRROR: It has been almost 14 years since you won the Indian Idol (Season 3) in 2007.
How has life been since?
Prashant Tamang: Hey, actually it’s been 15 years since then. But ya, life has had it’s ups and down but it’s been a great and most memorable experience. There was so much to learn and now it’s going just fine.
I am concerned about my next Nepali movie ‘Pardeshi 2’ which is set to be released this Oct. /Nov. during Dusherra Nepali festival. Apart from that there are some projects in my mind some of which are in progress and the other I am still working on.
EASTERN MIRROR: What were the challenges you faced after the win? How did you overcome them?
The challenges were many but the only thing I feel was my diction in Hindi which I am still trying to get right. My friends Amit Paul, Chang, Parleen, Abhishek, Deepali helped me with these things a lot.
EASTERN MIRROR: Do you stay in contact with any of the people you met on Indian Idol?
Of course, I do. They are my buddies.
EASTERN MIRROR: With some exceptions, many singing competition winners are unable to break into the industry. What is your take on this?
Let me tell you, Indian Idol, Dance India Dance, Voice of India, etc., etc. these are platforms which we (the lucky persons) get but still talent is a must. Now whoever is acting or hosting or performing or is in any form of art that depends on his/her talent. These shows provide us with the platform. But having said that luck is also a key factor which helps, I guess.
EASTERN MIRROR: There were many contestants from Northeast who did well at Indian Idol and other shows but could not make it big in the industry, is there any reason why this happens?
Yes, they did participate and did well too and I suggest they still have to. As Bollywood is a huge industry you need to struggle to survive or try to survive till the end. It’s not only about Northeast as far as I know. People from every part of India have to do the same but having said that, nothing is impossible.
EASTERN MIRROR: You are also interested in acting. How has your journey been as an actor? What are you more comfortable with? Acting or singing? Why?
Oh ya! I am still learning as an actor. And it’s really tough seriously. But if you ask me, I prefer singing but I still have my faith in acting.
EASTERN MIRROR: Do you have regrets since your days at Idol?
Oh Yes! The only regret I have or would have is that I could have sung those songs with more perfection.
EASTERN MIRROR: Surprising the people of Nagaland, you spoke Nagamese during your previous visits. With your wife being from Nagaland, was learning Nagamese an easy task for you?
Hehehe...frankly speaking I first googled how to speak Nagamese. But as I was fluent in Bengali I found it was kind of easy but let me tell you I learned it myself from hearing people speak when I visited Dimapur.
EASTERN MIRROR: How often do you come to Nagaland? Other than your wife being from
Nagaland what is your connection with Nagaland?
As I always say Nagaland is my second home which obviously is because my wife is from Dimapur. So if you ask me what is my connection with Nagaland my answer will be the vibe and love I get from the Nagas and which I believe is pure. So that is what connects me.
EASTERN MIRROR: Do you have any projects lined up?
Yes, I do have some original songs and collaboration with renowned band “The five minutes band” from Nagaland.
EASTERN MIRROR: What advice would you give to upcoming Naga musicians who want to participate in singing competitions?
First of all I am none to give advice but ya as lots of Northeast people look up to me (I guess) so as an artiste I just want to say that “be humble believe in yourself and be yourself”. If you want to be a good artist try to be a good human being.