IT'S not every day that a Malaysian singer gets to share the stage with a Bollywood legend. For Kilafairy, this moment is nothing short of a dream come true.
The 32-year-old singer and actress was chosen as the only Malaysian female singer to perform at the highly anticipated Udit Narayan In KL concert, which will take place at Mega Star Arena in Kuala Lumpur on Dec 28.
This monumental achievement is tinged with bittersweet emotions for Kilafairy, whose full name is Syakila Nisha Jangir Khan.
Reflecting on her late mother, the legendary singer Rohana Jalil, she says: "I wish my mother could witness this incredible moment. If she were alive, she would be proud."
CAREER MILESTONE
Kilafairy's selection to perform alongside Udit Narayan underscores her talent as a performer.
Known for her versatility, she was handpicked by the concert's organisers, VVST Digital Creation, to represent Malaysia on this grand stage.
"Udit Narayan is an icon I've admired for years.
"As a die-hard Shah Rukh Khan fan, I grew up hearing his voice in so many iconic songs.
"When I received the offer, I was shocked, nervous, and overjoyed all at once.
"Sharing the stage with someone of his stature is both intimidating and exhilarating."
This marks Kilafairy's first foray into a large-scale Bollywood concert, an experience she described as surreal.
Kilafairy's love for Bollywood is deeply rooted in her upbringing.
"I started singing Bollywood songs when I was eight.
"Bollywood films and music were a family tradition. My late mother and I watched 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham' together five times, and I still cry every time I see it."
She reminisced about her admiration for Udit Narayan's timeless hits, including songs from 'Devdas', 'Mann', and 'Taal'.
"His music has this incredible ability to touch the soul," she adds.
For Kilafairy, this concert is more than just a performance.
It's a tribute to her roots, a celebration of her talent, and a heartfelt nod to the legacy of her late mother, who died in 2023.
PREPARING FOR THE BIG NIGHT
To ensure she delivers an unforgettable performance, Kilafairy has been undergoing rigorous vocal training.
"Bollywood singing has a unique melodic structure that's quite different from Malay music," she explains. "I'll be performing one solo and two duets with Syamel, so I'm putting in extra effort to nail every note."
Her preparation doesn't stop at vocals.
Kilafairy is also collaborating with designer Shanell Harun for her stage outfits.
"The theme is Bollywood, but I want my style to stay simple and elegant. It's about embracing the culture without overdoing it," says the pop and R&B singer.
SPOTLIGHT ON UDIT NARAYAN
The Udit Narayan In KL concert promises to be a magical night for Bollywood fans.
Dubbed the "King of Melody", Udit Narayan has a legendary career spanning over three decades, with more than 25,000 songs in 36 languages.
Known for classics like 'Papa Kehte Hain' from 'Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak', his music defines the golden era of Bollywood.
This one-night-only event will transport audiences through decades of unforgettable Bollywood hits, from the 1990s to today.
The organisers have also addressed concerns about the recent cancellation of Udit Narayan's Penang concert (which was handled by a different company), and assured fans that the Kuala Lumpur event will proceed as planned.
For Kilafairy, this moment is more than just a career highlight. It's a deeply personal milestone, a chance to honour her roots, and an opportunity to shine on an international stage.
"This concert is for my mother and everyone who has supported me on this journey," she says.