I was very good in studies -- I topped CBSE board in school. I knew I could not devote time to a Masters degree in music, as I would have to stay away from the music industry for a longer time. My contemporaries already had good jobs by then.

I came to Mumbai in 2004. I wanted to cut my own album, but even established singers could not release successful albums. So I gave up that idea, and sang a remix, Rangeela re, featuring Deepal Shaw. When you sing a remix, people don't notice your voice. They only remember the original singer. But the song did open some avenues for me. I cut an album called 18, featuring myself. I thought that would get me noticed.

When did you start playback singing for Bollywood?

Before my second album, I got a chance to feature and sing a few lines in the song Chamse woh aajaye from Dus. But that did not get me anywhere. I got a chance to be a veejay on a television channel called ETC, and that's how I got a chance to meet people from the music industry.

At that time, Himesh Reshammiya's sister was busy with an upcoming singing talent show. I was asked to act in it. I didn't want to take it up, as it would change my career. I went to her house to tell her that I didn't want to do the show. It happened to be Raksha Bandhan, and Himesh had come to her home as well. I gave him a CD of my songs. After two weeks, I got a call from him, and my first song Dil vich lagya ve from Chup Chupke.

In the video: Akriti sings Dil vich lagaya ve from the film, Chup Chupke

Also Watch Kailash Kher sings for rediff!

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