Today we’d like to introduce you to Moumita Khondaker.
Hi Moumita, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Nestled in the vibrant streets of Queens, New York, my journey is a rich tapestry woven with diverse experiences that mirror my fervor for exploration and mastery across an array of fields. This journey, seemingly disparate, ultimately converges toward my true dream—to become a popstar, an aspiration that has lingered within me, resilient and undeniable.
From the tender age of 7, I immersed myself in mastering Persian, South Asian, and other dance forms, cultivating a skill set that transcends borders. This early dedication extended to foreign, opera, and jazz music, allowing me to grace prestigious stages with the violin, piano, and my vocals. Despite my family recognizing my talents, they perceived these pursuits as mere hobbies, steering me towards a career in the medical field.
Undeterred, I honed my skills as an EMT and Medical Assistant, earning a B.S. in Biology/Psychology. My journey in the medical arena included impactful research on DNA telomeres and drug discovery to combat cancer, a contribution that found its place in published research. Simultaneously, I dedicated a decade to tutoring and teaching, sharing knowledge, and laying the foundation for my multifaceted career.
Venturing into pageantry, I garnered recognition in Miss Universe Organization-held pageants, adding another layer to my dynamic journey. My creative pursuits expanded to acting (a short film on IMDb), modeling (did NYFW and LAFW runway shows, was on the billboard in Times Square), singing, and piano-playing. Yet, despite these accomplishments, my childhood dream of becoming a pop star resurfaced yet again, persistently tugging at my heart.
In a pivotal moment, I confronted the conflict between familial expectations and my intrinsic passion. Fueled by an audacious dream, I abandoned NYU graduate school to no longer become a physician, dropping everything to relocate to Los Angeles in 2022 against all odds. With an indomitable spirit and little to no connections, I embarked on a quest to forge a path in the music industry.
A hustler at heart, I strategically laid the groundwork for my primary aspiration—becoming a singer. This involved acquiring real estate licenses in both New York and California, along with securing a position as a math and science teacher in a private school in Calabasas. Shortly after moving to LA, I started dance training at Millennium Dance Complex and hit the studio consistently as well to leave as less room for weaknesses as possible. This strategic and entrepreneurial approach exemplifies my commitment to realizing my dreams. Teacher in the day, popstar at night. Hannah Montana vibes, double life, but in a good way.
Today, each accomplishment in my journey stands as a testament to my unwavering dedication and the diverse experiences that have brought me to this point. Embracing my identity as a Persian-Bengali singer and songwriter in the past two years in LA, I am poised at the cusp of my dream career—a melody that emerged from the confluence of resilience, audacity, and an unwavering commitment to the song within my heart.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Embarking on the journey to pursue a career in music has been far from a smooth road. As an independent artist, the initial challenges were particularly pronounced as I found myself navigating an industry that often struggled to place me within its conventional molds. Despite possessing obvious talents and a unique cultural background, I was frequently overlooked.
The realization that I did not conform to industry expectations prompted a transformative decision. Instead of succumbing to the discouragement, I chose to connect with fellow underdogs within the music realm. Together, we formed a cohesive and supportive team, each member contributing their hidden superpowers to create beautiful projects with me. This collaborative effort not only empowered us but also allowed us to showcase to the public that individuals who were once marginalized are now collectively leading humanity into a more progressive and extraordinary path.
Beyond the challenges within the industry, my personal background added an extra layer of complexity. Coming from a cultural milieu where societal expectations for women were limiting, I faced the daunting notion that success might require compromising personal aspirations for the traditional roles of marriage and family. Additionally, societal norms frowned upon women who dared to speak their minds, dressed or freely danced as they pleased, or pursued the arts.
Rebellious by nature and propelled by a cause rooted in authenticity and resilience, I navigated through the backlash. Overcoming societal expectations and breaking free from outdated and oppressive norms, I forged my path in the music industry on my own terms. The journey, though fraught with obstacles like encountering industry professionals with malicious intentions or sudden betrayals or even jealousy, became a testament to the transformative power of resilience and the unwavering commitment to pursuing one’s dreams, even in the face of societal constraints.
In essence, my pursuit of music has been a testament to breaking free from restrictive molds, forging alliances with like-minded individuals, and challenging societal norms that seek to confine the expression of women in the arts. Through this journey, I have not only overcome challenges but also actively participated in reshaping the narrative and fostering a more inclusive and progressive path for the industry and society at large.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As an artist, I embark on a musical journey that defies labels and ventures into uncharted territories, creating a harmonious blend of different genres. My unique style asserts a siren-esque aura, fusing these genres with the rich tapestry of my heritage, resulting in a sound that is both distinctive and unpredictable.
I pride myself on being open to experimentation, challenging the norms, and embracing the unexpected. I actively seek collaborations with artists from diverse backgrounds, welcoming the opportunity to fuse genres in unconventional ways. This commitment to pushing musical and lyrical boundaries is evident in my upcoming album, where listeners can expect a surprising mix of genres that defy expectations.
My official launch as an artist, marked by the single “NGL” and its accompanying music video, symbolizes my transformative journey of breaking free from societal norms. This release is a precursor to my next single, set to captivate audiences by April. Through my music, I invite listeners to shed inhibitions, rise above constraints, and join me in a cosmic journey of self-discovery.
The essence of my artistic movement can be encapsulated in the theme, “Death of a Patriarch, Birth of a Matriarch.” This signifies a transformative shift, both in my music and in the broader societal narrative. I take pride in my ability to create music that not only entertains but also challenges perceptions and invites individuals to embrace their unique identities.
In a realm where predictability is the norm, I set myself apart by embracing the unexpected, creating an immersive experience that transcends genres, defies societal norms, and invites listeners to join me on a cosmic journey of self-exploration and liberation.
How do you define success?
Success is more of an ambiguous concept that transcends the superficial metrics society often imposes onto us. To me, it’s a mosaic of milestones reflecting the alignment of my actions with my core values and deepest aspirations, recognizing the beauty in both achievements and setbacks. For me, it’s also about the authenticity of personal fulfillment and a broader contribution to the collective human experience.
All in all, I think success becomes a meaningful legacy when it is intertwined with a genuine desire to contribute to the well-being of those around us, fostering a sense of community and shared prosperity.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/moumitakhondaker
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moumitamusic/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moumitakhondakermusic/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moumita-khondaker-a8a32297/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCv_HWKUc0LapTw_9pIHfgHQ
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1bkHNYvS2rPjgk6qPFTa4V?si=8m9TlzR7SYWzKtI5KhqE3g
Image Credits
Andrew Morales-Lugo, Victoria Sky, Jorge Trejo, Katya Fesik
