Indian Idol 16 Winner Jyotirmayee Nayak
After months of unforgettable performances, inspiring journeys and musical excellence, Sony Entertainment Television’s Indian Idol Season 16 crowned Jyotirmayee Nayak as this season’s winner. Hailing from Odisha, Jyotirmayee gave a breathtaking rendition of the song ‘Saiyaan O Saiyaan’. His journey ended in a magnificent victory.
Excerpts from an exclusive interview
Congratulations on winning Indian Idol. How did you feel when your name was announced?
Thank you very much! To be honest, I didn’t know what was going to happen. Of course, I had butterflies in my stomach, but deep down I had been manifesting this moment for a long time. More than anything, I felt immense gratitude. This entire journey has transformed me not only as a singer but also as a person.
Your classical music foundation is very strong. When did your musical journey begin and who were your gurus?
I started learning Hindustani classical music when I was in Class 3 under the supervision of Buddha Prasad Rao Sir in Rourkela, Odisha. I later continued my training with my current guru, Balakrishna Bhaira Sir, in Bhubaneswar.
Apart from classical music, I also trained in light vocal music for Bollywood songs under the supervision of Guru Sharada Prasanna Sahu. Unfortunately, he passed away in 2023, but his teachings continue to guide me. He taught me not only to sing, but also to express emotions beautifully with each song. This learning played a huge role in shaping my career.
You talked about manifesting this victory. Did you always believe that you would win Indian Idol?
Yes, I really believed that. I always imagined myself winning the cup. Manifestation gave me confidence, but I also knew that hard work was required to support that belief. Every day I reminded myself of my dream and today this dream came true.
Winning Indian Idol comes with a cash prize of ₹20 lakh. Have you planned how you will use it?
(Laughs) Not yet! Since my father is a Chartered Accountant, I am sure he will ensure that money is managed wisely. I’m enjoying this beautiful moment right now.
What are your immediate plans after winning?
The first thing I want to do is record a devotional bhajan dedicated to Lord Jagannath. My entire journey feels like His grace and I want to present my first project in His memory.
Apart from this, I have a few Hindi songs waiting to be recorded and a few Odia music projects I am waiting to start. I’m excited to return to work.
If one day you get an offer for an Indian song and an Odia song at the same time, which one would you choose?
I don’t think language determines how far a song can go. If music is powerful, it can reach audiences all over the world. Songs like Despacito or Gangnam Style became worldwide hits despite many listeners not understanding the language.
Similarly, Odisha’s folk music also has tremendous potential. Songs like Rangabati have already shown that regional music can be recognized globally. If such a situation arises, I will do my best to balance both projects.
Your family supported your dream from the very beginning. What message would you like to give to parents who are hesitant to encourage their children’s creative passions?
I feel incredibly lucky to have parents who always believed in me. My message to every parent is simple; Trust your children. Give them the freedom to pursue what they truly love. Every child has a unique talent and when encouraged they can achieve extraordinary things.
You have sung in front of many legendary celebrities during Indian Idol. Which meeting remains closest to your heart?
Meeting Ms. Zeenat Aman was unforgettable. When I sang Laila Main Laila and later Do Lafzon Ki Hai Dil Ki Kahani, he said that if I had been singing during his time, my songs might have been illustrated on him. This compliment meant the world to me.
Poonam Dhillon Ms. also appreciated my performance and meeting Mithun Chakraborty Sir was also an unforgettable experience. He even welcomed me in Odia and it made me feel incredibly special.
Do you see yourself acting in the future?
Yes, but only in my own songs. I would especially love to appear in devotional music videos because these songs are deeply connected to my heart.
Your spiritual side has come to the fore. Has faith always been an important part of your life?
Not always. Over the last few years I have become deeply interested in spirituality. Reading the Bhagavad Gita, watching the Mahabharata and learning more about Lord Jagannath completely changed my perspective.
The more I learned, the more connected I felt. Spirituality now gives me strength, peace and direction.
You are engaged. How has your fiancé supported your musical journey?
I am very lucky to have someone who fully understands my profession. Even though he comes from a corporate background, he is always supportive. He’s not very expressive, but he constantly motivates me, asks questions about my training sessions and encourages me to keep improving. This silent support means a lot.
Looking back, do you feel like everything happened at the right time, from your victory to the many coincidences linked to Lord Jagannath?
Definitely. There were so many beautiful coincidences on this journey that I felt like it was a divine blessing. I am just grateful and pray that we continue to deserve this love and guidance.
What advice would you give to aspiring contestants who dream of participating in Indian Idol?
My journey has been full of ups and downs, and success definitely doesn’t come easy. But every challenge is worth facing if you believe in yourself.
Remember that if you are chosen, it means you already have something special. Keep working hard, be patient, have confidence in your abilities and never stop learning. Your dedication will eventually lead you to success.
Finally, what does this victory mean to you?
This cup is not just an achievement; The beginning of a new chapter in my life. I am grateful to my family, my gurus, my mentors, my listeners and everyone who believes in me. I hope to continue making music that touches people’s hearts and makes them proud.
