An Exclusive Conversation with Shithi Saha on OTN Bangla

Melbourne, May 16: Shithi Saha is a well-known name in the Bangladeshi music industry. Through her unique blend of Rabindra Sangeet, modern, and folk music, she has created a distinct identity for herself. Her musical journey began at an early age under the guidance of her mother. Later, she refined her skills further under the mentorship of Ashok Saha and the late Wahidul Haque. She also received training in classical, folk, and modern music from Chhayanaut and Shommelon Parishad. For her outstanding contribution to music, she has earned more than a hundred awards, including four National Awards and the prestigious Notun Kuri award.

From pain to passion, Shithi Saha’s journey inspires many. Image: Facebook

Shithi made her debut in 2005 with the album “Kichu Bolbo Bole,” a collection of songs by Rabindranath Tagore. She later won the hearts of audiences with albums such as “Kolpona,” “Golpo Patay,” and “Mon Balika.” In recognition of her contribution to Bangla music, she received a special honour at the Indo-Bangladesh Cultural Festival held in Auckland, New Zealand, in 2016.

Recently, the popular singer visited Melbourne via Sydney. During her stay, Shithi Saha spoke openly with OTN Bangla in a warm and intimate setting about her musical journey, personal struggles, favourite memories, and future dreams. Here are some highlights from the conversation for OTN Bangla viewers.

“I want people to remember me through my songs.” — Shithi Saha. Image: Facebook

OTN Bangla: What is the most memorable moment of your life?

Shithi Saha: In 2019, I had the opportunity to perform at the Army Stadium in Bangladesh alongside the renowned Pakistani pop and classical singer Shafqat Amanat Ali. While singing “Bin Tere,” he suddenly handed me the microphone. Sharing the stage with such a legendary artist was one of the greatest moments of my life. Later, the performance also went viral.

OTN Bangla: Which song is your favourite?

Shithi Saha: I truly love the song “Premeroi Jokhom.” I sang it with Mahtim Shakib for the movie Ghumpori, and the song carries a lot of emotions for me.

OTN Bangla: Which place has given you the best experience performing so far?

Shithi Saha: Performing in Sydney, Australia was an incredible experience. I have also performed in Belgium and Barcelona, Spain, and the love from audiences there deeply touched me.

OTN Bangla: What has been your worst experience while performing?

Shithi Saha: At an event in London, the audience kept asking me to dance while singing. But I am primarily a singer, and people come to listen to my music. Honestly, I did not enjoy that experience very much.

OTN Bangla: What was the most difficult time in your life?

Shithi Saha: The year 2022 was the toughest time of my life. Suddenly, I found out that I had cancer. At the same time, I was also pregnant. It felt like my whole world had stopped. But with everyone’s prayers and my own mental strength, I kept fighting. Despite the risks, I gave birth to my child. By God’s grace, I am doing much better now.

OTN Bangla: What is the biggest challenge in your musical career now?

Shithi Saha: Since the birth of my child, Joyee, I have had to devote a lot of time to her. Balancing music and family life sometimes feels like a huge challenge.

OTN Bangla: What are your future plans for the country?

Shithi Saha: I want to leave behind some meaningful songs so that audiences remember me. I also dream of working with underprivileged children, especially those who sell flowers or live on the streets. I hope to bring them into a safe environment and help create better educational opportunities and a brighter future for them.

OTN Bangla: What are your thoughts about starting a new family life again?

Shithi Saha: Honestly, I still feel afraid about starting a new family life. There is a sense of insecurity within me. Right now, I am focused on my music and my daughter Joyee. I want to leave the future in the hands of time.

Shithi Saha opens up about life, music, and inspiration. Image: Facebook

OTN Bangla: What is your favourite food?

Shithi Saha: I absolutely love sweets. I simply cannot resist them when I see them.

In conclusion, heartfelt thanks to Shithi Saha for giving her valuable time to OTN Bangla. Her honest reflections on music, personal struggles, and future dreams will undoubtedly inspire many viewers. On behalf of OTN Bangla, we wish Shithi Saha good health, happiness, and continued success in her musical journey. May her melodies continue to spread across the world and touch the hearts of listeners everywhere.