Shreya Ghoshal Slams Lip-Syncing as ‘Lazy Work’

Shreya Ghoshal, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated playback singers, has voiced strong disapproval of lip-syncing during live concerts, labelling the practice as “lazy work” and underscoring the need for consistent effort and integrity on stage. In a recent appearance on entrepreneur Raj Shamani’s podcast, the National Award-winning artist offered a candid perspective on performance standards, drawing from her own rigorous approach to live shows.

When asked about singers who rely on lip-syncing or heavy pre-recorded tracks during concerts, Ghoshal was unequivocal. “That’s just a lazy act. Apne mehanat nahi kari (You haven’t put in the hard work),” she said. “In my personal opinion, it’s not a good approach.” While she acknowledged that artists adopt different methods based on their style and circumstances, she made clear that she holds herself — and believes others should hold themselves — to a higher benchmark.

Ghoshal emphasised that live performance is an opportunity to demonstrate the dedication invested in one’s craft. “I can’t discredit what the audience likes, but I have certain principles as an artist,” she explained. “I have a problem with any performance of mine being played publicly that I myself wouldn’t even be able to listen to. For me, that is extremely humiliating and insulting.” She added that an artist should feel unease if a substandard or inauthentic rendition circulates, urging performers to treat their platform with ongoing respect rather than resting on past achievements. “Either you work hard on your craft because you’ve earned that crown or throne — don’t take it lightly thinking you’ve already achieved it. You have to work hard every single day.”

Her comments arrive amid renewed online debate over authenticity in live music. Earlier this year, Punjabi singer AP Dhillon drew criticism after viewers pointed out apparent lip-syncing during his performance of “With You” on The Great Indian Kapil Show, reigniting conversations about transparency and effort in public appearances.

Ghoshal’s stance is rooted in her own track record of delivering powerful, uncompromised live vocals. Renowned for her ability to navigate complex melodies, intricate ornamentations, and wide vocal ranges without significant reliance on backing tracks, she has built a reputation for consistency across stadiums, concert halls, and international stages. Fans and critics alike frequently highlight her command over pitch, breath control, and emotional depth in real-time settings — qualities she attributes to daily practice and unwavering discipline.

Her journey in music began at a remarkably young age. At 16, Ghoshal made her playback debut with the iconic “Bairi Piya” in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Devdas (2002), earning the National Film Award for Best Female Playback Singer and launching a career that spans thousands of songs across languages and genres. Over the past two decades, she has become synonymous with versatility and vocal excellence, winning multiple Filmfare Awards, IIFA honours, and global recognition for her contributions to Indian film music.

In an industry where playback artists increasingly cross over into live circuits, Ghoshal’s remarks serve as a reminder of the personal accountability that defines true artistry. She does not condemn those who choose different paths but makes a compelling case for self-imposed standards that prioritise craft over convenience. For Ghoshal, the stage is not merely a platform for entertainment — it is a space where effort, honesty, and respect for the audience must converge.

Her words resonate particularly with audiences who value live music as an extension of an artist’s authenticity rather than a rehearsed spectacle. As concert culture continues to grow in India and abroad, discussions around lip-syncing, backing tracks, and vocal integrity are likely to persist. Ghoshal’s principled position offers a clear benchmark: excellence is not a one-time achievement but a daily commitment. For an artist who has spent her career letting her voice speak for itself, that philosophy remains both simple and uncompromising.