Today we’d like to introduce you to Akshara Parashar.
Akshara, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve always enjoyed singing, ever since I was a little kid. My mom used to be a singer so she’d sing to me all the time, and I got into it when I was about four. However, we did come from a regular middle-class family, and so I went the conventional route and got a degree in Business when I got to college. And then I kind of realized I’d spent four years on Plan B, and so now it was finally time for Plan A. So, I enrolled for a course at Berklee in Vocal Performance and that opened up so many doors for me. It’s funny how when you set your mind to do something whole-heartedly, positive results are just a side-effect of who you’re going to become. I spent six months working in India with Oscar-winning music composer, A.R. Rahman, and now I’m back in Dallas, working on my debut EP.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I don’t think the road is ever smooth. But more importantly, I think it’s important to understand that you’re always going to be on the road. You’re always learning, messing up and picking yourself up. I think one of my biggest struggles was knowing that this is what I wanted to do with all my heart, despite what everyone said. I come from a pretty traditional Indian background, and kids around me decided they were going to be doctors or engineers in like middle school. The pressure definitely gets to you. But I realized I’d rather spend every day doing what I love even if I may not make it big this instant or make a ton of money. It definitely feels worth it every step of the way.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
I’m a singer-songwriter. I’ve been trained in Indian classical music ever since I was a kid, and my vibe is mostly Indian/American R&B fusion. For a couple of years now, I’ve been working on cover songs and recently started writing originals. I’ve released my debut original, “Edges” on all streaming platforms, and now have an EP in the works.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I think I would’ve tried not to let my fears get in the way of what I’ve always wanted to do. I think it’s important to trust your instinct more than anything else and just take the leap sometimes. But hey, no regrets! Wherever I am today, I’m here for a reason, and I truly believe that what’s meant to happen, will happen.
Contact Info:
- Email: akshara4297@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/aksharasings
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AksharaSings/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/AksharaSings
Image Credit:
Vinuthna Garidipuri
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.