We are family

When we met singer Kavita Krishnamurthy at the launch of her daughter Bindu Subramaniam's debut album, Surrender, the lady was busy doting on her two-month-old granddaughter.



"We haven't named her as yet. The naming ceremony will happen in a couple of months," says Kavita clearly over the moon. With Mother's Day just over, CS gets the two talented ladies talking about motherhood:

A brand new mom
Kavita: When I married Dr L Subramaniam, I felt that God had gifted me Bindu, Narayana and Ambi along with him. Motherhood was a new experience for me, and I wanted to be a very good mother (smiles). I guess it was tougher for the children because they already had an image of a mother in their minds. I was like a stranger in their house. But they were very affectionate and made it very pleasant for me.

Bindu: I have to give you a big gift this Mother's Day (laughs). Well, we knew her well even before the marriage. She was this 'cool aunt'. Mom brought a North Indian touch to our household, which was a nice change. And since she was more fun-loving than dad, we would run to her whenever we needed permission for something.
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A fresh start
Kavita: I was very keen to be a good mother. So, at the start I would try to discipline them. They used to travel with their dad for concerts. Since they practiced till late, they would wake up late in the mornings. I tried to change. Ambi was a bit of a brat (laughs) but he's a lovely young man now. Narayana was the calm sort just like my husband while Bindu was looking for love. But slowly, I understood that the kids were quite mature and intelligent, and that I needn't worry.

Bindu: All of us had entered into the relationship with positive expectations from each other. We don't believe in the step-mom stereotypes. It's so filmy (laughs). The first thing she did was change the menu, which was so refreshing. There is always a bit of adjustment, and I understand that better now, since I'm a mom too.

A musical bond
Kavita: My kids and I are good friends. Bindu and I love shopping together. I like to have her second opinion as she is very good with colours and designs. As far as music is concerned, I always tell her there are no shortcuts to success. Even if she needs to sing a song a 100 times to perfect it, she should do it. My mom and aunt were my pillars during my career, and I hope to be the same for Bindu.

Bindu: Mom is very thorough when it comes to music. She totally believes in hard work. I associate her with passion, commitment and integrity.