Shruti Haasan: Music, my best friend and creative refuge

Shruti Haasan views music not just as a career but as a lifelong companion and a vital creative sanctuary. She emphasizes that music is her 'best friend,' a space she returns to on both good and bad days, describing it as her truest form of experienced love. This personal connection to her music allows her to maintain her individuality, a stark contrast to the inherent responsibilities and emotional labor involved in acting.

While acting demands dedication to a character, Haasan finds music to be a loyalty to herself, making it impossible for her to choose between the two art forms. She explains that her independent music takes time to release because each song is deeply personal and autobiographical, an emotional process she honors without succumbing to the pressure of external timelines or trends.

Looking ahead, Haasan is preparing for a solo concert tour with a Mumbai-based band. The setlist will feature a blend of her own songs and reimagined pieces by her father. This live performance aspect brings her immense joy, allowing her to transform and feel completely free and connected to her audience.

Reflecting on her career, Haasan notes that times have changed significantly since around 2012 when she was advised against pursuing both acting and singing, fearing audience confusion. Now, she embraces having the "best of both worlds," balancing films with musical endeavors like "Vinveli Nayaga" and "Pavazha Malli." Her experiences in cinema have also influenced her songwriting, making it more visual and inspiring her to explore diverse genres and collaborations, pushing her creative boundaries.