Gajendra Verma On 15 Years Of Pop Stardom And The Legacy Of ‘Mann Mera': 'I Must Thank The Pioneers'
It has been 15 years since Gajendra Verma quietly made his entry into India's music scene—and in that time, he's become one of the most recognizable voices of new-age Indian pop. Best known for his evergreen hit 'Mann Mera," the singer-songwriter continues to hold a special place in the hearts of fans with music that blends simplicity, sincerity, and soul.
'I think it's fair to say I'm considered one of India's pop stars," Gajendra said, reflecting on his journey. 'But I must thank the pioneers who came before me." His humility shines through as he pays tribute to the icons of the 1990s who paved the way for the rise of independent music in India—a legacy he has proudly carried forward.
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While Gajendra has had several chartbusters over the years, Mann Mera remains a defining moment in his career. Released over 13 years ago, the song has become a staple in romantic playlists and continues to resonate across generations. 'First of all, big thanks to everyone who is still listening to that song," he shared. 'It gives me immense pleasure and motivation to make more music. While I am proud of the song, a lot of credit goes to the beautiful lyrics written by Aseem Ahmed—he truly deserves much of the praise."
Interestingly, Mann Mera wasn't originally tied to a film. It was an independent release in collaboration with Eros Music that gained popularity for its pure, heartfelt sound. The track caught the attention of filmmaker Aditya Datt, who asked Gajendra to compose a romantic version for his 2013 film Table No. 21. 'Once it was released with the movie, it went viral and the rest is history," Gajendra recalled.
The artist has since adapted to an ever-changing music landscape shaped by social media algorithms, viral trends, and streaming platforms. 'It's become more challenging to be an artist in today's times," he admitted. 'The only change I've made is to be more sincere and stress-free in my work."
For Gajendra, authenticity is everything. 'I've lived the kind of life most people in this country do," he said. 'When I create something honest and true to my experience, it connects with people. As long as the music is genuine, it will find its way to the hearts of listeners."
From his independent beginnings to becoming a household name, Gajendra Verma's story is a reminder that heartfelt storytelling still holds power in a fast-moving digital age. With a career built on emotion, relatability, and unwavering sincerity, the pop sensation continues to evolve—while staying deeply connected to his roots.
First Published:
July 20, 2025, 19:54 IST
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