Bhopal, Apr 9: On these days of Navratri festival, lyrical encomiums on 'Maa Sherawali' are heard in temples and other pious places. Prominent Bhajan singer of the country, Narendra Chanchal, whose name needs no introduction among the devouts of Maa Durga, was in city today on his way to Sironj to participate in a Bhajan Sandhya there. Chanchal, however, spared some time from his busy schedule and talked about his journey from a non-entity to one of the famous Bhanjan singer of the country. Here are excerpts from an interview:

Q. How do you feel in Bhopal during the Navratri Festival?

A. I just cannot explain my happiness in words. This beautiful city of lakes and hills is really one of the peaceful places. Everybody is attracted towards the natural beauty of Bhopal. The beauty of Bhopal should be praised again and again.

Q. Why did you select Bhakti Sangeet as your career?

A. It was the God's gift to me that I had started singing since my childhood. My mother is my guide and teacher in my singing. I started my singing career with rendition of Bhulle Shah's Sufi Sangeet.

Q. Do you agree that the 'Bhajan Sandhya' has just become a crowded place these days?

A. Bhakti Sangeet gives peace of mind. I have been singing Goddess Devi's Bhajans and Bhakti Sangeet for the last 25 years. I feel that the impact of Bhajan is permanent. It goes on and on. I don't know who prepared the music of 'Om Jai Jagdish Hare'. But this Bhajan reverberates in almost all houses during 'Aarti' time. This is not to pull crowd.

Q. Comparing to old days, what changes have come in Bhakti songs?

A. I'll say that the changes have come for good. I have seen the religious leaders singing film songs. In some tunes, the effect is for a short period only. But there are several tunes, which you will never forget in your life. Several new Bhajan singers are rising on the horizon of music these days.

Q. Did you ever provide playback for films?

A. Yes. When Raj Kapoor invited me to sing a song for film Bobby, I had received an offer to sing Bhajans for the Goddess. I first sang for the Goddess. Later on, I got a chance to sing the song for Bobby. It started like - 'Pyar bhara dil kisi ka na todo......'

Q. Did America honoured you?

A. I was given the Citizen Award at Georgia Town. It is an honour to me and my country also. I was so happy as if I received Filmfare award.

Q. Are you happy with the current realty music shows?

A. It looks as if all the channels are out to take advantage of the children. The other reason is that every singer wants to become another Sonu Nigam. If anyone shows his own art and voice, it should be welcomed.

Q. What are your future plans?

A. I have opened my own Music School. I am dedicating my full time to the School. The singer in 'Chhote Ustad', Vyom is my disciple.

Q. Any message to our readers?

A. There is no better award than the love of crores of people. Everything is okay due to the blessings of Goddess. Best wishes to all on the occasion of 'Navratri'.