From contestant to collaborator: Debojit Dutta’s full-circle moment with Shankar Mahadevan

Back in 2008, when Debojit Dutta stood on the Sa Re Ga Ma Pa stage as a contestant, he never imagined that one day he would compose a song for one of the judges he admired most, Shankar Mahadevan. Nearly two decades later, that dream came full circle with Naqsh-e-Qadam, composed by Debojit and sung by Mahadevan.Debojit says, “For a long time, it was a personal ambition to have Shankar sir’s voice on one of my compositions. The opportunity came last year when he was in Kolkata for a concert. I met him, shared my vision, and he asked me to send the composition. I shaped it to suit his style, and lyricist Rajiv Dutta wrote the words to match its tone. It was an honour to finally realise this dream.”The experience also left a lasting impression on his approach to music.

Debojit says, “Despite Shankar sir’s global fame and stature, his warmth, humility and dedication stood out. I feel fortunate to have a mentor like him. Working with him feels like a beautiful full-circle moment in my journey.”

Looking back at their early association, Shankar recalls the qualities that first stayed with him. He says, “When I met Debojit years ago on the show, what struck me was his innocence, talent and positive attitude towards everyone.

To see him grow into a composer and music producer is a proud moment. Singing for him feels very special compared to singing for someone else.”Speaking about his approach to music, Shankar highlights how experience is never allowed to overshadow the composer’s vision. He says, “For me, the most important factor is the person I am collaborating with. It doesn’t matter whether someone is a newcomer or an amateur artiste.

If there is sincerity, love for the art form, passion and dedication, I am open to collaborating. When I work as a singer, I step back and let the composition shine because it is the composer’s vision.

I ensure the composer is given due space and that his ideas are respected. I never try to overpower a composition with my own thoughts simply because of experience.”Years of acclaim and global honours, including a Grammy Award, have not shifted his outlook on music. He says, “I would honestly say that accolades, awards and recognition do bring happiness. They energise you, boost your morale and create a sense of responsibility to work even harder. But the next day is a new day, and it is the music, the art and the quality of work that truly matter. Both have their place, but in different ways.

Just because you have won a Grammy doesn’t mean you sit back and do nothing.”