From the serene hills of Nainital, Mansa Jimmy's evocative voice is beginning to captivate the hearts of music lovers far and wide. Known for her stirring renditions of classic Sufi music, traditional Kumaoni folk songs, and her unique fusion of genres, Mansa brings a fresh, soulful approach to music that speaks directly to the soul. Whether it’s through the melancholic depths of her Sufi renditions or the vibrant energy of her folk-infused pieces, she always manages to infuse her own personal touch.
We had the privilege of catching up with Mansa ahead of a mesmerizing musical evening at ‘KNMA in the Park,’ where she took the stage, her presence drawing the audience into a world of her creation. In this interview, Mansa opens up about her musical journey, the influences of her upbringing, and her perspective on the state of music today.
The Influence of Nainital on Her Music
Mansa’s roots are deeply embedded in the natural beauty of Nainital, a place that holds a sacred space in her heart and in her music. Reflecting on how her surroundings have shaped her sound, Mansa says, “I was introduced to music during my formative years. Nainital and its atmosphere make up 80% of my soul. Nature has been an integral part of my existence and dictates everything that I do. So yes, even my music is very much nurtured by it.”
For Mansa, the serene landscapes of Nainital are not just a backdrop but an essential part of her creative process. The mountains, the lakes, and the gentle rustling of the leaves have instilled in her a deep sense of calm and a connection to nature that resonates in her music.
A Melodic Fusion
When asked about the diversity of her musical repertoire, which spans across Kumaoni folk, Sufi, English renditions, and original compositions, Mansa shares her personal approach to music. "I am a very lyric, melody & song-oriented person rather than the genre itself but if I still had to pick one, Rock and Sufi,” she admits.
For Mansa, it's not about fitting into a specific genre; it’s about the emotional connection and the storytelling within each song. Whether she’s drawing from the ancient traditions of her folk music or infusing a modern twist, Mansa's voice is always the thread that ties it all together, creating a sound that feels uniquely hers.
KNMA in the Park
She describes the event as something extraordinary, saying, “I am very excited because it is no ordinary curation. It’s a February Sunday evening in the park. We’ll be playing unreleased songs & also (are) super excited to watch Ranjit Barot & Roysten Sirs’ BeatRoute and meet all the musicians and learn a thing or two.”
Performing in such a vibrant setting with other incredible musicians is an experience that Mansa eagerly anticipates. Her excitement is palpable, and you can sense her eagerness not only to perform but also to learn and collaborate with the talented artists around her.
Folk Music in the Contemporary Scene
One of the most fascinating aspects of Mansa’s work is her ability to bring timeless folk music to a younger audience. As the music landscape evolves, the role of folk music in the modern era can sometimes be overlooked, but Mansa sees it differently. She has a deep belief in the enduring relevance of folk. "I think folk music is timeless and will keep reviving itself. There are so many contemporary takes on folk songs. I try to do that as well. Most of the songs that are coming up do not speak the language that I think in musically, so I think I look back to folk and other old songs for inspiration.”
For Mansa, folk music is a rich, living tradition that can adapt and evolve with time. By infusing her own style and contemporary sensibilities into these traditional forms, she is helping to keep them alive for a new generation of listeners.
The Challenges of a Music Career
Like any artist, Mansa’s journey in music has not been without its challenges. The path to success in the industry can be long and filled with obstacles. When asked about the hurdles she has faced, she reflects thoughtfully: “The journey is so long. It sometimes might get disheartening but it’s important to keep going.” She emphasizes the importance of resilience and persistence, especially during times when progress seems slow.
Her advice to aspiring musicians is simple yet powerful: “Do not shy away from reinventing yourself, shedding your musical moulds. To learn something, often the biggest hurdle is stagnancy.” Mansa encourages others to embrace change and growth, recognizing that evolution is key to maintaining both artistic and personal fulfillment.
Words Platform Desk
Date 27.02.2025
Photography Incee and team