Exclusive Interview with Remkimi Cherput

Remkimi Cherput was born into a humble family in Aizawl’s Chhinga Veng. She is the youngest child of Mr. C. Lalpara and Mrs. Lalremruati, with an older sister and brother.

She won the hearts of Mizos with her song "When You Go Home..." and became the Mizo Idol in 2007. Recently, she completed her final BA exams at Indraprastha College for Women, Delhi University.

Our Special Correspondent, Bruce K. Thangkhal, interviewed her in New Delhi.

Can you share your educational background?

Remkimi Cherput: I studied Nursery to 5th grade at Nazareth English School, Aizawl; 6th to 8th at Auckland House School, Shimla; 9th and 10th at KV Multipurpose School, Aizawl; and 11th and 12th again at Auckland House School, Shimla.

What attracted you to music?

Remkimi Cherput: I can best express myself, my feelings, and emotions through music. That’s what attracts me the most.

Who inspires you to sing?

Remkimi Cherput: Many amazing people inspire me, but my biggest inspiration is my mom. She is strong, hardworking, and loving.

What’s your hobby?

Remkimi Cherput: Singing, playing musical instruments... and laughing!

What type of songs influence you?

Remkimi Cherput: I listen to many kinds of songs, but I am mostly influenced by the lyrics, whether it's a hymn or a love song.

When did you start singing?

Remkimi Cherput: I started singing when I was four. After school, I attended music classes with Mr. Rualthankhuma Chhakchhuak. I was in junior school then.

When was your first performance?

Remkimi Cherput: It was at a Children’s Sunday Service. I was five when I played the guitar and sang a hymn.

How do your parents react to your singing?

Remkimi Cherput: My parents have always been very supportive. I wouldn’t have come this far without their encouragement.

Some say singing love songs is not good for Christians. What do you think?

Remkimi Cherput: I believe every song has its own time to be heard and felt. I’m not against love songs or hymns.

What do you think about Delhi?

Remkimi Cherput: Delhi is an amazing place and fun to be in, but it makes me sad to hear about crimes like sexual harassment. Otherwise, it’s a nice place to live.

Do you feel safe in your college?

Remkimi Cherput: With all the policemen around, I do feel safe (laughs), but it’s always good to stay alert.

What do you think causes crimes against women in Delhi, like the 2012 gang rape?

Remkimi Cherput: I believe such crimes happen because of a lack of respect for others. It’s terrible.

What message do you have for Delhiites about discrimination against North Eastern people?

Remkimi Cherput: I have good friends from different places who always support me. But sometimes it’s frustrating when people call us names in public and make fun of us. It’s very disrespectful.

Can you tell us about your trip to Japan?

Remkimi Cherput: I visited Japan in 2010 on an educational trip. I stayed with a host family in Hiroshima and attended high school there. I made great friends, and we still keep in touch. I’m grateful to my principal, Mrs. S. John, for the opportunity.

What is your favorite food?

Remkimi Cherput: Anything my mom cooks!

Which country would you like to visit the most? Why?

Remkimi Cherput: There are many interesting countries, but I’d love to visit the USA.

Who is your favorite singer?

Remkimi Cherput: Mitch Grassi from Pentatonix. He’s amazing.

What is your favorite song?

Remkimi Cherput: Back to Black by Amy Winehouse.

What is your favorite music band?

Remkimi Cherput: Panic! at the Disco, The Strokes, One Night Only, Soulmate, Evenflow, Boomerang… many of them.

Have you ever sung in nightclubs?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, but only a few times.

Does singing affect your studies?

Remkimi Cherput: Honestly, sometimes it does. There are times when I focus more on music than studying.

Do you ever feel lonely? What do you do?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes! Since childhood, I’ve been away from home, so I sometimes feel lonely. As a kid, I used to cry, but now I sing.

Have you composed any songs?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, but I don’t think they’re good enough to share.

How many albums have you released?

Remkimi Cherput: Just one, in 2008.

Are you part of a band?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, I’m currently in a Mizo band called Blue Wave.

What is your favorite game?

Remkimi Cherput: Basketball! It’s the only game I know how to play.

Have you ever sung Hindi songs?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, once, when I was in the school choir in Shimla.

Have you performed in your college functions?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, I do.

Who were your childhood friends? Who is your best friend now?

Remkimi Cherput: I had many childhood friends, but we all went our separate ways. Facebook is the only way to keep in touch. My best friend now is Ruby Sailo.

Do you sing in church?

Remkimi Cherput: Yes, I sing Mizo hymns in church services.

What places have you visited?

Remkimi Cherput: I’ve been to Egypt, and it was fantastic.

How do you spend your Sundays?

Remkimi Cherput: I go to church and then hang out with friends.

What are your college timings?

Remkimi Cherput: Classes start at 8:40 AM and end at 2:30 PM, with breaks in between.

How did you take part in Mizo Idol 2007? What was the prize?

Remkimi Cherput: My teachers and family encouraged me to participate. I had no confidence at first, but they believed in me. I won cash, gifts, and, most importantly, friendships and memories. It was a big event in my life.

What do you want to do after graduation?

Remkimi Cherput: I’d like to work if I find a good job.

What is your goal in life?

Remkimi Cherput: To stand on my own feet, live a decent life, and help others.

What are your future plans?

Remkimi Cherput: I want to succeed in my career and make my parents proud. I’d love to give back to them for everything they have done for me.

What would you like to say to your fans?

Remkimi Cherput: Thank you to everyone who listens to my music and supports me. God bless you all! Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

~ The Mizoram Post | Manipur Chronicle | Zogam Today

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