January 21, 2011 (Sampurn Wire): Singer Rekha Bharadwaj, who has been popular for her song Namak Ishq ka from Omkara, is all set to perform at the Kolkata Festival. She is equally excited and nervous for her performance in Kolkata.

Rekha says that if an artist is accepted in Kolkata, he or she will get acceptance across India. She is eagerly waiting to perform at the Kolkata festival, where she is likely to sing a few Sufi songs and one or two thumris. She may also sing the number Darling from her upcoming film 7 Khoon Maaf. Rekha says that she has grown up with Bengalis as a kid and has lived with them as neighbours for 17 years.

The singer popular for her rusty voice, is also preparing to perform on the number Shokhi bhabona kahare bole'. The renowned playback singer says that she will try to croon this number but is worried if people throw tomatoes at her!

Rekha says that her number Namak Ishq ka took quite a long time to become popular with the masses. Vishal thought that the number will go a long way but the rushes never used the song, adds the singer.

She thinks that Delhi 6s Genda phool brought her closer the masses for its sensuousness that is loved by both urban and rural masses. Rekha says that she took out all her pain of not getting singing offers by taking to riyaaz vigorously. She thinks that she is the gifted one and just needs to hone her skills by constant riyaaz.

Well, with such a blissful voice, the singer should not worry because the people of Kolkata know well to appreciate talented artists, so there is no question of getting tomatoes!

--Sampurn Wire