How does it feel to be a New Bombayite Primarily?

Its an Amazing feeling all together. For Me Vashi is the place I would turn to in all times.

Picturing yourself as a common man, are you inclined towards New Bombay? If yes, why?

Well, firstly, Vashi is home to me. Ive got my family, my in-laws, friends and relatives, almost everyone over here. Moreover, I am a person who travels a lot and that is when my familys security concerns me the most. Having all relatives around dismisses the tension. Also the people are friendly, loving and Vashi is a lot cleaner, safer and less crowded them Mumbai is. Affordable housing is another important factor and all of this makes Vashi, the place to be.

How is Shankar with Family?

Oh! Entertainment too, is at its best in Vashi. For me and my family, its mostly the late night show of a popular hindi flick at the Multiplexes or a dinner at Chenab or Supreme Heritage. Sometimes we just go for a drive down the Palm Beach road. Nothing really excites me more then accelerating over that 9 km long stretch.

Is Shankar a Peoples Person?

Definitely! Whatever I am today is solely because of them. So I dont really mind walking into Mc Donalds on a busy Sunday evening or go shopping in sector-17. All it takes is just a couple of autographs and smiles. This is certainly a very small price to pay for the tribute and respect they have given to me.

Are the people of Mumbai and the twin city, different from other cities?

Oh yes! As I said earlier, all it takes over here is just a smile to smile back at the person staring at you whilst you are at a traffic signal or a restaurant or any shopping mall in the city. Unlike Mumbai, people up North and even in the South, come running behind you and some even chase your car with their bikes and more then often they have followed me home, just to get themselves an autograph.

Moneys worth?

Money is Important. Honestly, As long as I dont have to think twice before buying anything I wished was mine, Im content.

Anything that you wanted to make happen, but couldnt make it?

(Laughs) How I wish I could be slimmer! Though, I am a foody person and Im happy the way life has been for me!

Popularity  -  What do you feel about the youngsters who are streaming into the industry and making headlines lately?

Honestly, becoming popular doesnt necessarily imply that one is talented. For the youngsters who are joining in, well some really make it in easily, some dont. Sometimes, the one who can perform better is still left struggling outside and that is sad, but true.

Advice to such youngsters?

Follow the right path. If you want to be a singer, make sure you have all the credentials and knowledge of Classical music and everything that counts. Hear everything so that you can sing anything. Read everything so that you can write anything. Keep a broad based outlook and your efforts shall not go in vain.

Favourite quote?

Live for the Moment, and Live it to the fullest!