Shreya Ghoshal, one of India's most celebrated playback singers, has an extraordinary journey in the music industry that began with Sanjay Leela Bhansali's Devdas. Ghoshal debuted in Bollywood at the young age of 16, lending her voice to Aishwarya Rai's character, Paro, in the film.

Recently, Ghoshal shared how a decision she made early in her career, with the support of her father, was crucial to her success. Speaking about her debut in Devdas (2002), Ghoshal recalled the discipline and trust it took to wait for her big break under Bhansali's direction. According to Ghoshal, after the news of her singing in Bhansali's film became known, she received numerous offers from other music directors. However, she had already committed to Bhansali and made a promise not to sing anywhere else until Devdas was released.

In an interview, Ghoshal stated, "Now a lot of people had called me ki humara ek gana hain (we too have one song), and I have given my verbal confirmation to Sanjay ji ki mein kahi bhi nahi jaongi jab tak yeh gana nahi release hota hain,". She emphasized that it was her father who primarily made this decision, as she was still a student at the time. Ghoshal acknowledged that it would have been easy to get carried away with so many offers coming in, but she chose to remain steadfast.

Ghoshal believes that turning down those offers was essential to her being in Devdas. She stated, "It has worked, probably had I sung for all these people, I wouldn't have been in Devdas I'm sure about that. He was very particular about the fact that I will launch you, you have to be patient till the film releases".

Bhansali's vision is often compared to the artistic legacy of legends like Guru Dutt and Raj Kapoor, is known for blending music, emotion, and cinematic aesthetics. Many believe that only Bhansali can carry forward their artistic legacy on a global stage, with his deep attention to visual poetry and timeless music.

Ghoshal's journey to Devdas began at the age of four when she started learning music from her mother. At six, she began formal classical music training. Her talent was recognized early on, and she won the All India Light Vocal Music Competition in New Delhi in 1995. In 2000, she won the Sa Re Ga Ma competition, which caught the eye of Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Bhansali and music director Ismail Darbar offered her the opportunity to be the voice of Paro.

Ghoshal's debut in Devdas was a resounding success. Her songs "Bairi Piya" and "Dola Re Dola" became instant hits and won her the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer. She went on to receive four more National Awards for other songs. Ghoshal sang five songs in Devdas, sharing credit with established singers. Looking back, Ghoshal described the experience as nerve-wracking, like an audition, but also a master class. She felt she matured as an artist during those two years.

Since Devdas, Ghoshal has recorded thousands of songs in various languages and has become one of the most influential singers in India. She has also appeared as a judge on television reality shows. Ghoshal’s success is a testament to her talent, hard work, and the importance of making the right decisions, like prioritizing her commitment to Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Devdas.