Voice of India Debojit Saha on live shows and his new style...

Onstage performances and body language of a singer have become as important as singing itself nowadays, making our job more gruelling and challenging than ever.

The other day in Jaipur, as I came offstage after a show, a member of the organising committee appreciated my onstage performance saying it was as brilliant as my singing. Frankly speaking, I was more amused than surprised.

I had never taken any dance classes, though I always wanted to. A very hectic schedule and my happy-go-lucky nature have always come in the way of my desire to take a few lessons on how to twist and twirl.

I have learnt onstage dancing by keenly observing two very talented singers — Sonu Nigam and Shaan. I am not sure whether they have any formal training either. Nevertheless, I avidly follow their performances to pick up one or two tricks of the trade.

My wife Vandana often nags me to practise dancing as religiously as I do my riyaaz, at least before going on stage. But my inherent laziness discourages such an ambitious idea. Any day I prefer a good siesta or a free flowing adda with my family and friends to dance practice.

Fitness training is yet another important aspect of a good stage performance. After I return from a show late at night or, at times, in the wee hours of the morning, the first thing that comes to mind is to crawl into a bed and take a good rest. I have also seen many singers carry fruits with them to take a bite or two in between their performance to beat dehydration. A juicy apple not only recharges the body, but it also soothes the strained vocal chords.

I never carry any fruits with me nor am I fussy about my diet . Often I take food after returning from a show, which should otherwise be a strict no, no.

Therefore, when people appreciate my energy level and stage performance, it comes as a pleasant surprise. I won’t deny it gives me added satisfaction and encouragement to do better.

I know I should be more careful though. The other day, while performing at a Bihu function at Bongaigaon, I was left with cramps on my left thigh. Fortunately, it was not serious and I could continue with my performance.

On hindsight, maybe it is time to begin a regimental life starting with an hour on a treadmill in the morning and following it up by matching a few steps at a dance school. But then, that’s simply not me.