In this electrifying episode of Jam with Sam, Sampath Iyengar welcomed Nirmika Singh, a powerhouse of creativity and the Executive Editor of Rolling Stone India. From her dynamic career as a journalist to her passion for music and poetry, Nirmika shared her fascinating journey and insights into India’s music landscape. Here’s an inside look at her inspiring story.
From Delhi to Bombay: A Journey of Self-Discovery
Born and raised in Delhi, Nirmika’s early life was defined by a love for music and creativity. A science student with a passion for singing and debating, she veered away from traditional career paths by pursuing journalism at Lady Shri Ram College and later earning a master’s degree in political science from JNU.
While juggling her studies, she performed part-time with her band, giving her a taste of the indie music scene. In 2011, driven by a desire for more opportunities in music, Nirmika moved to Mumbai. “Bombay is the Holy Grail of indie music,” she remarked, recalling her bold decision to embrace the city’s vibrant energy.
Rising Through Journalism: The Rolling Stone Chapter
Nirmika started her journalism career at Indian Express before moving to Hindustan Times, where she helmed the music vertical. Her big break came when she joined Rolling Stone India as Deputy Editor, eventually becoming its youngest Executive Editor.
In her tenure, she transformed the magazine into a hub for pop culture, showcasing not just music but also comedy, Bollywood, and more. From Ranveer Singh gracing the cover to her efforts in including regional and indie artists, Nirmika has expanded Rolling Stone India’s horizons.
“Print is in a state of flux, but I love the challenge,” she shared, reflecting on the evolution of media.
The Indie Music Champion
A passionate advocate for independent music, Nirmika has worked tirelessly to bring attention to India’s vibrant indie scene. From highlighting regional hip-hop to discussing issues like gender disparity in the music industry, she has used her platform to amplify underrepresented voices.
“The moment you talk about things that resonate with people, it clicks,” she explained, referencing the rise of desi hip-hop and its raw portrayal of real-life issues.
A Multi-Talented Creator
Nirmika wears many hats: singer-songwriter, lyricist, stage performer, and poet. Her album Jhoothe, a blend of indie and folk-pop, showcases her versatility as an artist. Writing, composing, and performing her songs comes naturally to her, a reflection of her deeply creative spirit.
On stage, Nirmika is known for her signature style—fusing traditional sarees with a modern twist. “I’m compulsively creative,” she admitted, emphasizing her drive to constantly reinvent herself.
Breaking Barriers and Redefining Roles
In a candid discussion, Nirmika addressed the lack of women in technical and creative roles within the music industry. She highlighted how societal conditioning has limited women’s participation as composers, sound engineers, and technicians.
“There aren’t enough women performers to even compare pay scales,” she said, calling for greater gender inclusion as a pathway to equality.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Music
When asked about her future plans, Nirmika expressed her desire to create a “creative consortium” that redefines music in India. From artist management to brand partnerships and publishing, she envisions being the catalyst for transformative change in the industry.
“I want to make things happen. Maybe I want to be the Sampath of music,” she joked, showcasing her ambitious spirit.
Conclusion
Nirmika Singh is a trailblazer in every sense—a journalist, musician, and advocate for independent artistry. Through her work at Rolling Stone India and beyond, she continues to shape India’s cultural landscape. Her story is a testament to the power of following one’s passions and breaking conventions.
About Nirmika Singh:
Nirmika Singh is the Executive Editor of Rolling Stone India, a singer-songwriter, lyricist, and poet. Known for championing independent music and redefining pop culture journalism, she has become a prominent voice in India’s music industry. With her boundless creativity, Nirmika is an inspiration for aspiring artists and journalists alike.