Success never goes to my head: Jagjit

���I am always ready to talk,��� said ghazal maestro Jagjit Singh, during his recent trip to Ahmedabad. The minute we approached him for an interview, the velvet voiced Jagjit warmly agreed to take time out for a chat.
Considering, we had heard that he was not the easiest subject to interview, it came as a pleasant surprise to find Jagjit���s nose was buried in a medium sized notebook.No, he wasn���t reading poetry. He was busy signing autographs. And he even modestly apologised for getting distracted through our interaction, because he was also signing autographs.
A post graduate in history, Jagjit had an early connection with music. He said, ���I was and still am music personified. I can visualise music 24 hours a day. That���s why, I started learning music at an early stage but did complete my formal education as my father wanted me to get into the Indian Administrative Service.���
With a voice that has mesmerised millions across the world, Jagjit believes in the healing qualities of music. He said, ���Music has a therapeutic value. But not stage music. Stage music is effective as long as you are listening to it. Just like a film or a drama, which makes you forget things as long as you are listening to it. But it isn���t meant for treatment.���
As a student of music, Jagjit has not only created a niche for himself but also improved himself consistently. He went on to add, ���Music teaches a singer a lot about discipline. Riyaaz infuses discipline in a musician. When we practice it regularly, it influences other areas as well. Music also teaches you to be patient.���
He might have achieved phenomenal success, including awards like Padma Bhushan but he confesses that they (the awards) have made him modest and grounded. ��� Success never goes to my head. That���s primarily because I come from a middle-class family. And that���s one quality, everyone should possess, no matter how talented or successful one is,��� he said.
Moving towards his car, as we strike a lighter note, the 69 year-old confessed that if he had not been a ���singer���, he���d be a ���dhobi. Or, I���d probably set up a factory manufacturing mechanical goods.���
When he���s not busy with music, he loves to enjoy life. He avered, ���I like to watch television or sleep.I also exercise or read books. I enjoy everything in life ��� food, dance, entertainment! Everything.���
But he did have a word of advice for all those who are starting a career in entertainment. ���Work hard. It���s essential for everyone to work hard and examine oneself.���
Also See Jagjit Singh���s Portfolio