Some of the best British talent are independent artists who are carving out their own path with superb songs that are bringing something new to the music industry.
Young singer-songwriter Sofia Gillani falls firmly into that category and has been getting
better with each song, since announcing her arrival with her dynamic debut Ain’t a Game.
She continues that impressive run with her most recent release Flames, which is a follow-up to her last song Water Run Dry.
Eastern Eye caught up with the rising young music star to find out more about her.
What first connected you to music?
I started singing when I was around 10. I got inspired by listening to my dad play guitar and discovering particular songs in the car. Once I did my first performance at school, I was completely motivated to pursue my music creativity to see where it could go. My sound began leaning to pop music with many of my favourite influences.
How did you feel when your first song released?
I was ecstatic and excited. I was not expecting my first song Ain’t a Game to be received so well. It got picked up by many radio stations in the UK and quite a few in the US, which was really cool. The animated music video for the song caught a lot of attention too and was nominated for best animated video at the Cornwall Film Festival.
Which of your songs is closest to your heart?
I’d have to say Other Side because it was a song that, for me, shone bright in dark times, being so relatable and more direct in its lyrical sense. I feel empowered when singing it and reminds me of the development I have made as a singer.
How would you describe your music and sound?
My identity is stamped all over my sound, as I express myself through my journey of music.
What inspires you as a songwriter?
All my song-writing influences come from my surroundings, experiences, and the world. I also enjoy reading multiple books.
Which artists have been your biggest musical influences?
My musical influences range from SIA to Adele.
Tell us something about your most recent song Flames?
Flames is paired with my last release Water Run Dry to amplify the message of natural change and karma. Water Run Dry is an abstract metaphor for never losing hope and looking for a solution when times feel impossible.
What can we expect next from you?
Quite a few live shows are coming up and more are to be announced. Do follow me on Instagram for updates. I have a song titled Monster, for which I am in the process of shooting a music video. Also, another song Won’t Be One, for which I have completed a music video. Stay tuned.
What is the biggest challenge you face as a young independent artist?
I have faced some earlier challenges with recording techniques, but I have developed and learned quickly. I have a great team working behind the scenes for me, who really believe in me, and that means more to me than anything. It keeps me going. My music and I are evolving together, and my song lyric work and composition will reflect that.
What music dominates your own personal playlist?
R’n’b, pop and jazz dominate my playlist.
What is the best musical advice you ever received?
It was to appreciate the small victories.
Why do you love singing?
Singing is one of the most impactful art forms. A quote I heard sums it up perfectly – ‘This is your chance to prove to the world what you feel music is about, no matter how big or small your recognition is. It is your chance to free what you want to say. You have a message. Sing it, scream it. There’s no right and wrong in real music’.
Instagram: @sofia.aneesa.gillani
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.