Sri Lankan singer Yohani, who shot to global fame with her song Manike Mage Hithe, has found her second home in Mumbai. In India, she has been working hard to create original music and is busy learning the language to cater to her fans. Yohani has recorded the Hindi version of her popular Sri Lankan song which will reportedly feature in Ajay Devgn, Rakul Preet Singh and Sidharth Malhotra's Thank God. 

As she plans to make music for her Indian fans, PeepingMoon.com spoke to Yohani about her journey from Sri Lanka to India. In the exclusive interview, the singer opened up about dealing with instant fame, expanding her horizon, learning and adapting to a new culture and more.

Excerpts from the interview:

When did you learn about your inclination towards music?

I have always been into music since I was small but never wanted to do it as a career. I started my YouTube page in 2016 and that’s when I thought I could make music. 

Manike Mage Hithe gave you global recognition. Did you ever expect this success?

I absolutely did not expect this at all because when I did this song, it was just for fun. When we made the song, we had no idea that it would go viral like this.  

How has life changed after Manike Mage Hithe?

Life has changed dramatically and it is amazing. I am in Mumbai, learning Hindi and trying to do Hindi songs.

How has your journey from Sri Lanka to India been?

The journey has been amazing for now. The main part of the journey is learning a new language and a new culture. I am looking forward to what’s in the future.

Do you plan to sing Hindi songs more often?

Yes, I do plan to do more Hindi songs and I am working on some of them. I am learning some other songs to be able to perform. It’s been tough but getting there slowly. 

Expanding your horizon can be a tough task. Are you experiencing this?

It is a little difficult because of the language barrier but hopefully, with time, I’ll overcome that. The main issue at the moment is the accent.

Does instant fame bother you?

Instant fame doesn’t really bother me but expectations from others get to you at times. But everybody has just got to wait so I get my work together and move forward. 

Have you recorded the Hindi version of Manike Mage Hithe?

Yes, I have recorded the Hindi version of Manike Mage Hithe. It took me some time to record it because we wanted it to be perfect. It is going to be out very soon and I hope everyone enjoys it.