Gaana singer Isaivani gets global recognition

She is also the only female member in The Casteless Collective band that is co-founded by director Pa Ranjith. “Hearing this news on November 24th was one of the best moments of my life. The year 2020 was not a happy year for many; but fortunately, it turned out to be the best year in my life. I love music and singing gaana songs makes me forget all the worries,” says an excited Isaivani.

She has been singing for the past 18 years and Isaivani tells us that the journey wasn’t an easy one. “I have been singing light music for various small functions in the city. My family had financial trouble, so, I wanted to support them in my way. Entering The Casteless Collective band was a life-changing decision for me. We don’t generally see a female gaana singer. But I switched from light music to gaana music — it wasn’t an easy decision. My father was against it. But I made up my mind and continued singing gaana songs. All my team members are so supportive. They encourage me to become a better singer and I am thankful to each one of them,” she smiles.

The 24-year-old has faced many criticisms from the audience and the music industry as well. “Soon after I exit the stage after performing, people start commenting about me. I don’t listen to negative and vulgar remarks. People will talk about me no matter what. I am okay with constructive criticisms, but when it turns vulgar, I don’t pay attention to it. I don’t worry about what people think of a female gaana singer. Music is universal and it should be that way. There shouldn’t be any discrimination with the type of music or the gender of the singer,” she says.

Getting into a male-dominated space, Isaivani wanted to encourage other women to express themselves through singing. “I wanted more women to come forward and be part of the gaana music industry. I hope to see positive changes in the nearby future,” she sums up.