I like to be in charge of my destiny: Sona Mohapatra

Sona Mohapatra, who has crafted her own identity as a singer in the Indian music scene, believes it is pointless to be a part of a system that is not fair.

Sona, who has been one of the most vocal voices from the Indian music industry, said she prefers to perform at concerts and shows rather than singing songs for Bollywood films as it lacks creativity.

"There isn't great creativity happening in film music. It is a great time for musicians. I'm happy doing concerts, where one or two lakh people show up. I am able to make an impact in a much larger way.

"I see myself as a performing artist and not just being a playback singer. I have had some big hits in the last ten years but that has not been the benchmark of success. Being in charge of my own destiny and doing things in an uncompromised way, gives me a much bigger thrill than being part of a system, which according to me not always follows a fair play," the singer told PTI in an interview.

Sona said Bollywood music industry has become more male-driven in recent years.

"Today, in romantic duets, women don't get more than four lines to sing. I was seeing so much of that, the fact that we don't get enough songs. Eight out of 100 songs in the mainstream have a female voice. In the whole scenario of shrinking opportunities, you can either sit and complain or create your own opportunities."
"There aren't so many opportunities for the female artiste. The best thing is to find another creative expression, something which is powerful."