After taking her stage game a notch higher last Navaratri (in Surat) with a puneri dhol weighing around 25kgs, Mumbai-based and Indore-born Purva Mantri is set to embark on a musical journey in September. She’s taking the puneri dhol on her upcoming US tour next month, covering Houston, Chicago, Seattle, Atlanta, Savannah, Edison and Boston. Mantri, known for songs like Kala sha kala, Raanjhan ve, Rumjhum and — her latest — Metador (featuring Rajasthani rapper Rapperiya Baalam), recently spoke to The Telegraph.
Tell us about your experience with the puneri dhol?
Many singers and artistes have their X factor, like some play the guitar, some sing and some play the piano. I was always into rhythm; it was my first choice because my mom is a Hindustani classical singer and when she performed, I played the tabla with her. So this part of my life is definitely one of the best experiences. Logo kaa itna pyaar mila hai… they want to see me around the world with this act.
How did you incorporate it into your act?
I’m not a great guitarist or a piano player, but yes, I’m great with rhythm. My management and my team already knew that. Last year, before Navratri, we were brainstorming for creative ideas. When I have a puneri dhol team from Mumbai, why not bring a taste of Mumbai to Surat. I rehearsed only once. Rehearsals are always great but when an artiste is on stage, the game changes. The first time I picked it up on stage, it was tough. On the second day, I did a little calculation... this is where I need to breathe and sing. And on the third day, it was fabulous. By the sixth day, my act was trending.
What was the turning point in your career?
There are many turning points. I think the pandemic, in a way, was the turning for me. Music has been my passion since a young age. I was in the eleventh grade and I studied commerce, which I wasn’t great at. My father asked me what was wrong and what I wanted to do. I said I was drawn to the creative field. So this keeps me going. I got rejected from Indian Idol twice and then, on the third attempt, I was selected. When I went for a demo in Mumbai, they asked me to correct my pitch and it was heartbreaking. However, a few years later they appreciated my voice and the industry is open to women with powerful voices. I found my place among the audience.
What’s your fashion statement?
I love colours. Before I go up on stage, I close my eyes and visualise how I’d want to look and then I brief my stylist. I love folk culture and also want to incorporate a Western element.
What will be on your list when you travel to the US and Canada?
I want to collaborate with a few artistes and rappers from there. I want to travel and meet new people.
What’s next for you?
I’ll drop a Punjabi pop track that we’ve shot a video for; it’s called Mascara.
As an artiste who has inspired you?
Usha Uthup and Ila Arun — both have powerful voices and stage presence that you cannot forget!
Your message for young, independent artistes?
It doesn’t matter if it’s bhajan, Bollywood, folk or pop — singing is a duty and you need to perform your duties. If you keep moving, you’ll find your way.
