From Geology to Music: B-town Singer Who Found His Voice in Hills
The picturesque town of Dharamshala, nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, has been a haven for spiritual seekers, adventure enthusiasts, and artists alike. For Mohit Chauhan, the famous Bollywood singer, Dharamshala was more than just a scenic backdrop; it was the place where he discovered his true calling.
Born and brought up in Jalandhar, Punjab, Mohit was always drawn to the world of music. As a child, he would often listen to his father’s classic Hindi songs and try to mimic the melodies. However, it wasn’t until he moved to Dharamshala to pursue his Bachelor’s degree in Geology that he began to find his own voice.
In an interview, Mohit recalled, “I was studying geology in Dharamshala, and music was just a hobby. I used to sing in college functions and small events, but I never thought it could be a profession.” Little did he know that the quiet town of Dharamshala would play a crucial role in shaping his future as a musician.
It was during his college days that Mohit met his mentor, the renowned music composer, Pankaj Udhas. Pankaj, who was already an established name in the music industry, was struck by Mohit’s unique voice and raw talent. He saw immense potential in the young singer and decided to take him under his wing.
Under Pankaj’s guidance, Mohit began to hone his skills, learning the intricacies of music composition, arrangement, and singing. He would often spend hours in the studio, experimenting with different sounds and melodies, and learning from his mistakes.
The Himalayan landscape, with its breathtaking views and serene atmosphere, proved to be the perfect setting for Mohit’s musical journey. He would often take long walks in the hills, singing to himself, and allowing the natural beauty to inspire his creativity.
As Mohit’s skills improved, he began to perform at local events and functions in Dharamshala. His unique voice and style soon gained popularity, and he became a crowd favorite. His big break came when he was approached by the popular music director, A.R. Rahman, to sing for his film, “Rang De Basanti”.
The song, “Lukka Chuppi”, became an instant hit, and Mohit’s unique voice and style earned him critical acclaim. He went on to work with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, Pritam, and Vishal-Shekhar.
From Geology to Music
Mohit’s journey from a geology student to a successful musician is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. His story is a reminder that success is not necessarily a destination, but a journey, and that one should always be open to new opportunities and experiences.
As he looks back on his journey, Mohit credits his time in Dharamshala for shaping his musical journey. “The town has a special energy, and it’s where I discovered my true calling. It’s where I found my voice,” he said in an interview.
Today, Mohit is one of the most beloved voices in Indian music, with a career spanning over two decades. His songs have become an integral part of Indian pop culture, and he continues to inspire a new generation of musicians.
As we reflect on Mohit’s journey, it’s clear that the quiet town of Dharamshala played a significant role in shaping his future. It was there that he discovered his passion for music, honed his skills, and found his unique voice.
For Mohit, Dharamshala will always be more than just a scenic backdrop; it’s the place where his musical journey began, and where he found his true calling.
