Unplugged & Unstoppable

Bollywood's powerhouse singer Sunidhi Chauhan has enthralled the audience for more than two decades. As she reinvents herself, she talks to us about her ultimate de-stress mantra – a trip to Goa!

A powerhouse of talent, Sunidhi Chauhan has ruled Bollywood playback music since around 2000, when she burst onto the charts with the song “Ruki Ruki Thi Zindagi” from the film Mast. The song won her several awards and nominations, marking the start of a trailblazing career. Since then, she has delivered over 1,500 songs, amassed over 23 million monthly Spotify listeners, and recently set screens ablaze with an electrifying performance in her latest single, “Aankh,” which also stars actor Sanya Malhotra, racking up over 60 million views on YouTube.

In the last few months, the singer has reinvented herself. From sold-out live concerts to charttopping releases, she has redefined what it means to be a musical icon. Her ‘I Am Home’ tour, both in India and abroad, proved that she’s not just a singer — she’s a force, owning the stage with every performance. And she doesn’t want to stop. “I plan to do a lot of singles because that’s my favourite jam right now. I also love working on non-film music along with film music,” she says. While films may have brought her fame, her first love is live performances. “I try to reach out as much as I can. I travel to the interiors of India to perform and connect with my fans. I am what I am because of them,” adds Chauhan. “Wherever I go, whether it is India or abroad, I am showered with so much love and respect. And after every performance, I return with many fond memories,” she says.

briefing

Singer

Go Goa

Chauhan lists Goa as her favourite destination. “There’s something special about the air in Goa, and that’s what I like the most. You get off the plane and you are caressed by this beautiful wind, and you feel you have arrived at a destination where you can relax your mind. I find a certain sense of belongingness in Goa,” she says.

Hangout in Panaji

“I absolutely love spending time in Panaji (Panjim)! There’s something so freeing about the energy there — people are relaxed, living life at their own pace, and there’s no stress. It’s such a contrast to city life, which makes it even more special. The colourful Portuguesestyle buildings, the calm streets, and the unhurried vibe are exactly what we all crave when we need a break,” Chauhan says.

Walking the Streets

“I love walking around and exploring Goa’s streets, but if I had to pick a favourite activity, it would be visiting the churches. There’s an undeniable sense of peace and positive energy in these holy places. No matter how many times I go, it always feels special,” the singer adds.

“I’m a total foodie, and chicken xacuti is my favourite Goan dish,” says Chauhan, adding, “I make it a point to visit Mum’s Kitchen in Panaji (Panjim) — they serve the best xacuti ever. My taste buds can never get enough of it!”

Feasting on
chicken xacuti

Partner in crime

Chauhan’s favourite travel partner to truly enjoy her off time is her husband Hitesh Sonik. “He’s my best travel partner,” says the singer, adding, “I love impromptu trips; they are the best ones.”