I have a favourite adage – “Make your passion your profession and you will never regret it.” But not everyone is lucky enough to get a chance to follow their passions. Some try to make time for it with their jobs and some just dream about following their passion but are not able to do it.
The creative mom whom we are featuring today is the one who got a chance to follow her passion. Her story is a true example of passion+talent+hard work. An engineering graduate who is doing something different from her field of education.
We bring to you another story of a mom who changed her field and is doing great in the field of her passion. I introduce to you – Anuja Soni, a trained classical singer, and a music teacher.
What is your background?
I am an Engineering graduate in electronics and Sangeet Visharad in Hindustani Vocal music. Somehow felt that a 9 hr office job with little or no creativity is not for me, so decided to pursue my passion.
How did you start singing classes?
I started teaching music when I was expecting my first child in 2004. It was a bunch of 5 kids. I feel happy and accomplished to say that in the course of 13 yrs now, this number has crossed 450 [including kids and adults, who learnt for at least a year]
Did you go to any singing school for learning?
Yes, I completed my Visharad from Sharda Sangeet Mahavidyalaya, (Jabalpur), under the apt guidance of Mrs. Jyotsna Deshpande.

Recently her program was telecasted on Sankara channel on TV
What all challenges you faced in the starting when you started the classes?
When you love what you do and feel passionate about it, no challenge is big enough. Kids are full of energy and positivity, so teaching music to them has always been a pleasurable thing to do.
I take my work very seriously and continue learning new things so that my students get the best. I take my classes from home, but I have designed my classes in accordance with established music schools.

Anuja and her students performing on the stage at a music festival.
What are your most important tips for other mompreneurs?.
Not just Mompreneurs but to every woman – Always believe in your passion. Select a job/work that suits your personality and talent. You will never feel exhausted and worked up. Our work defines us. Work to nurture your passion and to make yourself a happier person, money will follow.
What is your inspiration?
My Mausi, Mrs. Pushpa Soni. She taught me the value of time and the importance of being economically independent, which I believe every woman should be, irrespective of her husband’s/fathers status. She always encouraged me to do my best and she still does.

Anuja with her family
What are the benefits of music for kids and at what age moms should introduce music to kids?
I can tell from my own experience that I have received maximum happiness and contentment from music. It has the power to help you sail through the toughest times with a smile on your face. Music has the power to heal and distress.
For learning music, I suggest 5+ is a good age to start.Though one can start learning at any point in time in their life. Learning music is always rewarding.
What is your vision? Where do you see yourself and your classes in 5 years?
Hindustani classical music is beautiful and very melodious. Seeing the quality of Hindi film music these days, classical music has again started getting a lot of respect in music circles. Students who are pursuing this art have good future prospects.
I want to spread my knowledge to a maximum number of learners, so now taking online classes on FaceTime/skype to overseas students. In next five years, I expect a dedicated band of my students (vocal and keyboard) performing in and out of Bangalore. Nothing much. Just want to teach good and genuine music.
Anuja performing live on the stage
If that’s not enough, I must tell you that she is an internationally certified yoga trainer too.
What lesson other moms or women can learn from Anuja’s journey?
If you are passionate about something, go follow it. Be patient and do not expect immediate results. It is all about being at aright time at a right place and opportunity can knock at any moment. Do not think too much as overthinking can weaken your decisions. Trying is the first step to success.
Read about previously featured creative moms here- Monika, Shiva, Soma, Ritika, Sudha, Rina, Shipra to get inspired.
November 24, 2017 at 11:21 am
Take a bow, Ms Anuja…such a multifaceted, talented and enterprising person you are! An inspiration for many, I must say!
“Dil cheej kya hai”, song vdo was like the cherry on top, Deepa! T
November 24, 2017 at 12:00 pm
Thanks Anagha
November 24, 2017 at 12:52 pm
A TRUE “DHUNI” by nature .. Anuja is real inspiration not just to Moms .. but to every one ..
Just keep doing it .. tongue out of cheek ….
Proud of you my Sister !!!
November 24, 2017 at 12:55 pm
A TRUE “DHUNI” by nature ..
Anuja is real inspiration not just to Moms .. but to every one ..
Just keep doing it .. tongue out of cheek ….
Proud of you my Sister !!!
November 24, 2017 at 2:58 pm
Awesome…Kudos to you Anuja ?
November 25, 2017 at 8:21 am
Thank you everyone for your kind words! Means a lot to me.
November 27, 2017 at 2:14 am
Wow Anuja you definitely wear too many caps! Wishing you more success:)
November 27, 2017 at 12:07 pm
Wow leaving that boring job opened so many doors for her, i am so glad she did what she wanted to…kudos!!! loved the video
November 27, 2017 at 2:55 pm
Thanks Richa
November 27, 2017 at 3:54 pm
This is very inspiring… Loved all the tips that she has shared for mompreneurs.
November 27, 2017 at 5:07 pm
Wow ! This lady has mesmerizing voice. U sure are lucky to have got a chance to interact and share her interview with us. I feel that singers can follow their dreams anytime coz they can just impress people easily 🙂
November 27, 2017 at 7:09 pm
Thanks Nameesh
November 27, 2017 at 5:49 pm
Awesome Anuja. I have done my Senior masters Diploma from the Prayag Sangeet Samiti- Allahabad.
Good to have met you here with music as a common interest.
Cheers!!
UK
November 27, 2017 at 5:50 pm
Wow Anuja you are super talented and a true entrepreneur. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
November 27, 2017 at 7:09 pm
Thanks
November 27, 2017 at 9:57 pm
That’s very inspiring journey. Indeed true gem she’s. I too believe that we have to follow our passion and listen to our hearts
November 27, 2017 at 10:07 pm
An inspiring story to make us all want to follow our passion.Best wishes to Anuja to follow her musical journey.
November 27, 2017 at 10:54 pm
What a multitalented woman. More power to her. Thanks for sharing Deepa.
https://natashamusing.com/2017/11/the-actor-micromondays/
November 28, 2017 at 2:39 am
The first line of the post…”make your passion your profession….” makes so much sense. Thank you for introducing us to this talented woman. An inspiring journey that makes us believe nothing is impossible.
November 28, 2017 at 9:41 am
Thanks
December 2, 2017 at 2:29 pm
Thanks Richa…! It was a difficult decision but worth it.. 🙂
December 2, 2017 at 2:42 pm
Thanks so much!
December 2, 2017 at 3:38 pm
Each and every comment of all of you means a lot to me. Thank you so much!!