Subhechcha Ganguly 
Lipsa Mahapatra’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a celebrated playback singer and her unforgettable encounter with Maoists showcases the power of passion and perseverance in music.
“I never even realized when I chose music as my career,” said playback singer Lipsa Mahapatra. Her extraordinary vocals and versatile talent have made her one of the leading artists of Odisha.
Born in 1995, Lipsa’s love for music began in childhood, often humming around the house. This early passion eventually became the driving force of her career. During her learning years, she specialized in Hindustani vocals and participated in numerous reality shows. It didn’t take long for people to recognize her talent, and she quickly gained a reputation as one of the finest voices in the region. Soon, offers to work as a playback singer started pouring in.
Lipsa described this transition as a mix of excitement, fear, and anxiety. But like a lotus blooming in the mud, her determination and passion pushed her through. Those who once overlooked her now became her admirers and sought her for prominent projects. She was invited to work on major TV serials such as Tu Kahibu Na Mu, Tuma Bina, Akhi Ra Nisa, Piriti Chuma, and Mamu More.
Her unforgettable folk songs, like the all-time hit Selfie Bebo, Aa Suna Gharu Bahari Aa, and many others, have earned her a special place in the hearts of audiences. Lipsa’s efforts have also taken her abroad, performing for the Odisha Society of America in Atlantic City and, more recently, at the Odisha Society of Kuwait.
One of the most unforgettable moments in Lipsa’s life occurred during a trip to Koraput district. On her way back from a performance, her group encountered a group of local Maoists. When the Maoists learned that Lipsa was a singer, they asked her to sing in exchange for letting them go. This unexpected encounter, which Lipsa describes as one of her most surreal experiences, remains one of the most memorable in her career.
As a digital content creator, Lipsa shared her thoughts on social media as both a friend and foe to artists. While social platforms provide opportunities for budding talent to shine, they also make room for low-quality content to steal the spotlight from deserving artists. Despite the challenges, Lipsa prioritizes passion and confidence over everything else.
