From a small-town dreamer to a nationally recognized singer, Anuj Sharma has become a household name in the Indian music industry. Known for his soulful voice and deep-rooted connection to Himachali folk music, he has carved out a unique identity for himself. In this exclusive interview, Anuj opens up about his journey, challenges, and what keeps him going.

Q: Anuj, tell us about your early years and what sparked your passion for music.

Anuj Sharma: Unlike many artists who come from musical backgrounds, my journey was quite different. My father was a teacher, and my mother a homemaker. There was no music tradition in my family, but the one person who truly supported and inspired me was my elder brother. It was in my college days, during my first year of BA, that I first stepped onto a stage to perform. That moment changed everything for me.

Q: Who were your musical influences growing up?

Anuj Sharma: I grew up listening to legendary singers like Kishore Kumar and Mohammad Rafi. Their music had an emotional depth that touched me deeply. But my biggest influence has always been folk music. Himachal Pradesh has a rich musical heritage, and I wanted to bring its essence to a larger audience.

Q: Your big break came with Indian Idol Season 2. How did that experience shape your career?

Anuj Sharma: Indian Idol was a turning point in my life. Coming from a small town, I had no idea how vast and competitive the music industry was. The show gave me a national platform and helped me understand what it takes to be a professional singer. Making it to the finals and finishing as the runner-up was beyond my expectations. More than anything, it gave me confidence in my abilities.

Q: What were the biggest challenges you faced after Indian Idol?

Anuj Sharma: The real struggle began after the show. Winning or reaching the finals of a reality show is just the beginning. The industry is tough, and opportunities don’t come easy. I had to prove myself repeatedly, work hard, and create my own space. There were moments of doubt, but my passion for music never let me give up

Q: You have contributed significantly to regional music. What inspires you to keep promoting Himachali folk music?

Anuj Sharma: Himachal Pradesh is my home, and its music is my soul. While Bollywood and mainstream music are important, I always wanted to keep the roots of my culture alive. My aim is to blend traditional Himachali sounds with modern music so that the younger generation can connect with it. Music is a bridge between the past and the future, and I want to ensure our rich heritage is never forgotten.

Q: What is your creative process like? How do you approach a new song?

Anuj Sharma: It varies from song to song. Sometimes, an idea comes to me spontaneously—while traveling, in nature, or even in a quiet moment alone. I focus on the emotions behind the lyrics. For me, music is not just about singing; it’s about telling a story and making the listener feel something deep within.

Q: You have received numerous accolades, including an honor from the Himachal Pradesh government. What do these recognitions mean to you?

Anuj Sharma: Every recognition is special, but being honored by my home state is incredibly meaningful. It’s not just about awards; it’s about the acknowledgment that my efforts to promote Himachali music are making an impact. That, for me, is the biggest reward.

Q: What message would you like to share with your fans?

Anuj Sharma: I owe everything to my fans. Their love and support keep me motivated to create music that resonates with them. To all my supporters—keep believing in good music, and I promise to keep bringing you melodies that touch your heart.

Q: What’s next for Anuj Sharma? Any upcoming projects?

Anuj Sharma: There’s a lot in the pipeline! I’m working on some new independent music projects that blend folk and contemporary styles.  I am working on my music with my close friend and brilliant music director, Hitesh, known as Swar Mystry. Our collaboration spans over a decade, during which we have built an effortless creative synergy and a deep musical bond. Together, we push boundaries, blending innovation with soul, crafting melodies that truly connect with the heart. Our journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and with every project, we strive to create music that is timeless, powerful, and deeply meaningful. Stay tuned—there’s a lot more music on the way!

Final Thoughts

Anuj Sharma’s journey is a testament to passion, hard work, and the power of music. From a small-town boy to a celebrated artist, he continues to inspire many with his dedication to his craft. As he moves forward, one thing remains certain—his voice will keep echoing in the hearts of music lovers across the world.