| Amit Tandon's Indian Idol days may be long over, but the singer-turned-actor (plays Manthan on Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi) still harbours musical aspirations.
He has recently completed an album called Amit Tandon — Rebirth, and it is dedicated to the woman he lost in the 9/11 carnage in New York. Why is your album called Rebirth?
I have always said that music is my first love, which is why I participated in Indian Idol.
After I went out, I got into acting. Even though I got an amazing platform with Idol, my dream of releasing an album was unfulfilled. Now I will be completing that with the release of Rebirth.
I have named it so because I feel I've been reborn with the music I've made. This is a side of my personality that no one has seen before.
I have shared some of my most personal moments through the songs on the album. Hindi is not your first language and you had to work on your accent. Was it a stumbling block while singing?
Not really. The moment I joined television, my Hindi improved. The songs on my album are a fusion of bhangra, Punjabi, sufi and many other genres.
I have also incorporated some Latin numbers. In fact, the first single is totally in Hindi with only a few lines in English. It's more like a rock ballad. I know people will be expecting a lot from me. Is it true you have dedicated Rebirth to your ex-girlfriend?
Yes. Her name was Manika Narula and I lost her during the tragic 9/11 attacks in New York. The album is my way of paying homage to her. She believed in me and encouraged me to be a singer, and this is my way of honouring her belief.
I initially thought of shooting the first single in New York against the backdrop of Ground Zero, but decided against it. I don't think people here would relate to the idea.
How has marriage changed your life?
It's changed me in a very positive way. I am calmer now. Ruby has made a lot of difference in my life. Without her continued support, this album would not have been possible.
She is the biggest pillar in my life. | 
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