Interview with Kenedy Khuman - An Exceptional Singer

Khuman *

Photo Courtsey:- Kenedy Khuman

This week we are coming up with a special interview session with Kenedy Khuman. He is one of the most demanded and lovable singers in the state of Manipur. His voice, down-to-earth nature and singing style mesmerize the attention of the audience in many musical platforms.

Kenedy Khuman, we would like to say thank you for your time to have a session with us.

E-pao: - Please introduce yourself so that everyone can know you more.
Kenedy Khuman: - I am just thinking from where I have to start introducing myself (he smiled). Well, my name is Kenedy Khuman. I am the second son of my parents (L) Laishram Shyam Singh and (L) Laishram (O) Subita Devi. I am from Wangkhei Laishram Leikai. I have two brothers (elder – Laishram Nimai Khuman and younger – Laishram Govin Singh).

I started my career in Music with the support and guidance from my elder brother Laishram Nimai Khuman. He is the one who fully guided me since the beginning of my journey. Life is full of challenges but with the support of my family members and abundant love from people who love my music I am here today.

E-pao: - Who inspired you in the Music industry?
Kenedy Khuman: - I was introduced to music at an early age and I listened to many legendary singers on the radio as a child. But honestly it was my elder brother, Laishram Nimai Khuman, who profoundly influenced my love for music, serving as a huge inspiration.

I used to follow him while he played the guitar when I was in Class V. Moreover, folk music artists such as Oja Mangi, Oja Mangangsana, Oja Tiken,Oja Mahesh and Mangka inspired me.

Taking in inputs from the rich tapestry of folk music and my musical imagination, I tried to create something unique and something of my own. So I ended up crafting my songs like "Kachin Laimu" and "Meisu Lakte" with a unique flavor uncommon in our music scene.

E-pao: - Please also share since when you started performing in front of audience and others.
Kenedy Khuman: - I began my journey as a Pena artist, following Oja Mangangsana and Mangka in 2014-15.

And then, brother Bobin Konthoujam introduced me to the solo of contemporary music stage with performances like "Thekna Thekna" and "Humang Souwida." The release of "Naken Tha," "Ayo Yo Yo," and "Louri Chatpi" garnered love from the audience, leading me to where I am today.

Photo Courtsey:- Kenedy Khuman

E-pao: - Share us some names of your songs.
Kenedy Khuman: - So far, I have recorded over 40 songs (Music Video Albums and Manipuri Film songs combined). In addition to my already previous songs, there are still many songs yet to be released. Some of my well-known songs include:-

o Naken Tha
o Ngaijarakpa Kuireda
o Ayo Yo Yo
o Louri Chatpi
o Nungshide Haina
o Humang Souwida
o Uncle Na Bemma
o Eidi Kijeiye
o Exam Loire
o Kachin Laimu

E-pao: - Kenedy, it would be great if you share about the training of music.
Kenedy Khuman: - Before I began performing in front of the public, I sang and played guitar with my elder brother. Singing has always been one of my dreams and I always seek opportunities and training. Eventually, I had the privilege of meeting Oja Mangangsana and Mangka, from whom I gained valuable knowledge about Folk Music.

Both of them are truly commendable, and I owe them a sincere thank you. I would also like to express my gratitude to Oja Bimola, brothers Bobin, O. Gautam, Tony Aheibam, and all the supporters who have guided and supported me along the way. Without their assistance, my journey in the industry would have been much more challenging.

E-pao: - Kenedy, please let us know your achievements also.
Kenedy Khuman: -I have been awarded BEST PLAYBACK SINGER (MALE) by Manipur State Film Development Society - 13th Manipur State Film Awards, 2020. The title of the song is Naken Tha (Film:-Pandam Ama and Category - Feature film).

E-pao: -Would you like to share about the struggles you faced?
Kenedy Khuman: - I feel emotional sharing my career journey. I've faced personal and professional hardships, hailing from a humble background with self-employed parents. The toughest period involved my 12th standard and college years.

The joy of my elder brother's selection at the IAF was soon overshadowed by my mother's untimely demise, my own health problems requiring out-of-state treatment, and the subsequent loss of my father that occurred in quick succession, taking a toll on me.

Despite everything, I pursued my graduation at Bangalore, staying at my brother's place. To cope with the difficult situations, I turned to motivational literature and found solace in playing the guitar, a gift from my brother that I still cherish to this day. After graduating, I returned to Manipur, working various jobs and running a handloom-related business.

Despite the modest salary as an Assistant Auditor, I diligently saved a portion of my income, gradually investing in my music career. The turning point came when I reflected on a Zig-Zag desktop wallpaper, inspiring the lyrical idea for "Thekna Thekna." This song, followed by "Humang Souwida" illuminated my career, marking the continuation of my journey.

Photo Courtsey:- Kenedy Khuman

E-pao: - Apart from singing, your any interest.
Kenedy Khuman: - Apart from singing and composing music, I am keen on immersing myself in deep thoughts to come up with new lyrics based on reality. Additionally, I love playing cricket and engaging in yoga exercises regularly to maintain my overall health (he smiled).

E-pao: - Your message to the people.
Kenedy Khuman: - My message is simple. I would like to request people to please respect the artists and always encourage them. And to those who would like to choose Music Industry as a field of their career - make sure to do everything from the heart and take good decision. Always take the step with discipline, dedication and hard-work. Self motivation is also very important in taking any decision.

E-pao: - Kenedy, thanks a lot for having time with us. Wishing you the best of the best in your future endeavours.
Kenedy Khuman: - My pleasure to meet you and thank you so much for giving this opportunity.

See a full photo gallery of Kenedy Khuman here