Showing posts with label Shekhar Ravjiani. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Shekhar Ravjiani. Show all posts
Some of our best work has come from creative clashes - Vishal-Sheykhar
4:29 PM
Debarati S Sen (BOMBAY TIMES; March 25, 2026)
From Dil Diyan Gallan, Aankhon Mein Teri, Sheila Ki Jawani to Besharam Rang, composer duo Vishal–Sheykhar have shaped the sound of Bollywood for 25 years.
Known for their instinct-driven partnership and genre-bending hits, the two continue to reinvent themselves while keeping the fun, and the music, at the heart of their collaboration. In this conversation with Bombay Times, they look back on their journey, the trust that binds them, and the madness behind their melodies. Excerpts...
After so many years, do you finish each other’s musical sentences, or argue over commas?
Vishal: Absolutely. We do finish each other’s musical sentences. That’s uncannily true about us. But yes, we also have those “commas” you mention. We argue, we debate, we break things down—where a song can go, where it should go, what it should sound like, the beat, the energy—everything is discussed to the bone. And yet, somehow, we always end up on the same page.
Sheykhar: At this point, we know each other so well musically that one of us can easily complete a thought that begins in the other’s head.
Twenty-five years is a long time in any profession. What has been the glue that’s kept you both together all this while?
Vishal: Honestly, it doesn’t even feel like 25 years. We still have fun doing what we do, we love the process, and we’re always laughing—whether we’re working or just hanging out. There’s a deep respect for each other, and just as importantly, we give each other space. Every person needs an individual identity, even within a partnership, and I think holding on to that individuality has kept us strong all these years.
Sheykhar: At the heart of it, it’s always been about the music—the joy of creating something bigger than either of us. That singular purpose has been the driving force of our collaboration from day one.
When you both hit a deadlock in opinions, how do you break it?
Sheykhar: Taking a break usually works best. Stepping away gives us distance and helps us regain perspective. Sometimes, even a really long break has done the trick. As our friend, lyricist Irshad Kamil, once wrote, “Kuch rishton ka namak hi doori hota hai, na milna bhi bahut zaroori hota hai.” That thought has stayed with us. At the end of the day, it’s always about the music, and whatever makes the song better is what wins.
Vishal: Honestly, we don’t really have deadlocks. We don’t see them as conflicts, just as strong opinions. Both of us are secure enough in our partnership to voice what we feel without ego getting in the way. But if ever there was a deadlock, we’d just step away for a couple of days, come back refreshed, and move on.
Do you have unspoken rules at work, or do you still surprise each other?
Vishal: In many long-term partnerships, roles get fixed. Thankfully, that’s never happened with us. Sheykhar is a far more qualified musician, he’s taught me a lot, but our process is symbiotic. Anyone can do anything. If he sings me a tune and I tweak it, he runs with it. If I sing him an idea and he adds a line, that becomes part of it. It’s fluid.
Sheykhar: Life would be boring without surprises. Over time, we’ve both grown individually, and those experiences naturally shape how we collaborate. The ‘rules’ keep rewriting themselves as we go.
Looking back, is there one moment in the studio or on stage that perfectly sums up your equation as collaborators?
Sheykhar: Honestly, every day in the studio or on stage asks something different of us. Each director is unique, every audience responds differently, so our collaboration keeps shifting too. We’ve learned to recalibrate pretty organically—whether it’s composing for a film or performing live. That ability to adapt has kept things seamless for us all these years.
Vishal: If I had to pick one defining moment, it would be the composition of Jo Bheji Thi Dua (Shanghai). That song was pure instinct. I’d been carrying the hook melody in my head for a couple of days, and when I walked into the studio, Sheykhar already had the mukhda. The hook just slipped in there like they were meant to be together.
If your 25-year journey as a duo were to be described as a track, what genre would it fall into—rock, pop, EDM, or a mashup? Or name a song.
Sheykhar: I’d definitely describe it as a Mashup.
Vishal: For me, it’s Dus Bahane Karke Le Gaye Dil (Dus). By hook or by crook, you’ll end up loving our music, we’ll draw you in. Our songs are meant to become part of people’s lives, and we want everyone to feel included in that experience. I still remember the first time a car drove past playing Woh Pehli Baar from Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi. It blew my mind! I’ve been hooked to that feeling ever since.
Take us inside a Vishal–Sheykhar jam session—how does a melody or beat usually find its way from your minds into a finished track?
Vishal: And these sessions don’t always happen in a studio. It could be in the car, at a coffee shop, or even on the phone when we’re in different countries. Wherever we are, once we’re in the zone, it becomes a session. It’s unstructured, but it has its own rhythm, a method to madness. Sometimes we begin with a melody, sometimes with words, sometimes by just sitting with a script or listening to a director’s narration. Ideas can spark from anywhere.
Sheykhar: The seed of an idea or melody can come from either of us, but it’s our different perspectives that merge to create something we’re both proud of. Sometimes, even the occasional casual jam has turned into a hit unexpectedly.
You’ve often been described as having very different temperaments. How has this contrast been a superpower, and how has it sometimes been a stumbling block?
Sheykhar: Disagreements and differences are inevitable in any partnership. In fact, some of our best compositions have come out of creative clashes. Even when we don’t see eye to eye, the key is trusting each other’s instincts. If one of us feels strongly about an idea, the other gives it room to breathe. Over the years, we’ve learned when to push, when to pull back, and when to simply listen.
Audiences in the south have showered love on Chammak Challo, Om Shanti Om-Shekhar Ravjiani
8:16 AM
Fahad Hussain (BOMBAY TIMES; March 19, 2025)
“Music, for me, is about freedom and expression. It’s a way to cut through challenges, to meditate, to emote. I’ve been fortunate to listen to diverse musical styles from across India and the world,” says singer and music director Shekhar Ravjiani, who is part of the popular Bollywood composer duo Vishal-Shekar and is known for hit songs like Chammak Challo, Ishq Wala Love, Meherbaan, among others.
The composer, who was in Chennai recently, shares his fond memories of the city, his perspective on the divide between the north and south music, his favourite South Indian musicians, and more...
The popular notion these days seems to be that Bollywood music’s golden era is over. What’s your take on this?
I don’t believe Bollywood music’s golden era is over. Our films and music are still celebrated globally. Look at Chhaava — it has broken all box office records. If a film is honest and well-made, it will always be successful, and the same applies to music. If music is truthful and heartfelt, the audience will always connect with it.
Why do composers from the north find it difficult to break into south Indian films?
I don’t see music as north vs south or east vs west. Music transcends all boundaries. If you go to dance classes in Mumbai, Tamil songs are hugely popular. People don’t think of them as ‘South songs’ — they just enjoy the music. Similarly, audiences in the south have showered love on my songs like Chammak Challo and Om Shanti Om.
Do you think the role of music directors will change with the rise of AI-generated music?
AI can make things more convenient and speed up certain processes, but it can never replace human emotions. AI doesn’t have a heartbeat, it doesn’t feel pain, and it doesn’t fall in love — so how can it write a song? I might use AI for research or administrative tasks, but never for creativity. That’s where human beings excel.
How do you approach composing a song? What’s your creative process?
For film music, I start with the director’s vision — understanding the character, their emotions, and the scene where the song fits. Once I have that clarity, I build the melody, rhythm, and ragas accordingly. For independent music, the process is entirely different. Here, I am my own director. I decide the theme, the emotions, and the lyrics. It’s a personal expression — there is no screenplay, no restrictions, just pure creativity. I love learning, experimenting, and collaborating with different musicians.
As someone who has been to Chennai several times, what are your fond memories of the city?
I have been coming to Chennai since Om Shanti Om (2007) for string recordings and arrangements. Many songs for Chennai Express (2013) and Home Delivery (2005) were produced here, too. One of the highlights of my career was recording at S P Balasubrahmanyam sir’s studio. That moment felt like a milestone in my life — like I had achieved something in life. Chennai’s musicians, people, and food are truly special. On every visit, I look forward to stopping by this popular hotel chain just to have podi idli!
Losing my voice was heartbreaking, but I've healed now-Shekhar Ravjiani
10:19 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; December 2, 2024)
Musician Shekhar Ravjiani (of the Vishal-Shekhar composer duo) recently revealed on social media that he lost his voice and could not perform at concerts two years ago. He was diagnosed with a condition called Left Vocal Cord Paresis, a disorder where an individual's left vocal cord reduces movement or ability. In a conversation with BT, Shekhar spoke about his traumatic experience and how he dealt with it.
“I tested positive for COVID twice during the pandemic, but I recovered and resumed my normal life. But, in June 2022, I suddenly found that I could not sing and had lost my voice and just air coming out from my throat. I was shocked and shuddered, thinking what would happen to me. Thinking of a life where I would never be able to sing or perform frightened me,” he shares.
‘I had to put up a strong front and pushed myself harder at concerts’
Elaborating on what happened after the diagnosis, Shekhar said, "When I was diagnosed with Left Vocal Cord Paresis, I began believing that there was no hope. After a few weeks, I had to accept that it was something that I had to deal with. The solution was to fight it. I was completely heartbroken. I put up a strong front and pushed myself harder at the studio and concerts. Mentally, I was in a bad state, but I avoided talking about it and kept myself busy.”
‘Today, I have healed and can sing even better’
He further added, “I had to go to San Diego for a project, and there, a friend asked me to meet a doctor in the US. She suggested a vocal warm-up and vocal exercises to help get my voice back. I also learnt that a vocal warm-up is essential every time I perform on stage. If you don't exercise your vocal cords, your voice can be harmed a lot. Today, I have healed and can sing even better. I am talking about it now because I hope everyone should learn from this and never give up hope. My faith in Lord Hanuman helped me sail through. I am thankful and grateful to the doctors who helped me recover from this condition.”
Losing my voice was deeply disturbing and shocking-Shekhar Ravjiani
8:44 AM
Soumya Vajpayee (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 20, 2024)
Composer-singer Shekhar Ravjiani, one-half of the popular composer duo Vishal-Shekhar, recently took to social media to reveal his battle with a health condition (left vocal cord paresis) that caused him to lose his voice two years ago.
Speaking to us about the “difficult phase”, the 45-year-old shares, “Losing my voice was by far the most traumatic experience of my life. Even contemplating a life where I might not be able to sing was the most frightening thought. It was extremely hard to stay positive when something so precious was being taken away from me. I suddenly had no voice and just air coming out instead. The phase was deeply shocking and disturbing. Even today, I shudder when I think about it.”
This phase, besides having physical repercussions, also affected his mental health. “A situation like what I went through can pull you quickly into a very dark place. I remember feeling extremely low and despondent at times. It was hard to see any light at the end of that tunnel. I had to put up a strong front at home just to make sure that my family didn’t feel my pain. I continued my work at the studio and pushed myself much harder at concerts. Mentally, I was a bit disturbed. But I avoided expressing or talking about it,” Ravjiani says.
Ravjiani also posted a photo of the Hanuman Chalisa with his post. Ask what, other than spirituality, helped him recover, and he says, “All the credit for my recovery goes to Dr Erin Walsh, who I refer to as my angel. She was unwavering in her commitment to making sure I overcame this setback,” adding, “Vocal exercises curated by Dr Erin helped me to get my voice back. And one huge learning was that a vocal warm-up is extremely important before getting on stage. Otherwise, you can cause great harm to your voice.”
Lyricist Dev Kohli Kohli of ‘Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhen’ fame passes away
8:12 AM
Avijit Ghosh (THE TIMES OF INDIA; August 27, 2023)
Lyricist Dev Kohli, who started his career with the sensitively-penned contemplative track, ‘Geet gaata hoon main, gungunata hoon main’ (film: ‘Lal Patthar’, 1971) but had to wait for nearly two decades before earning bigger fame and recognition with ‘Maine Pyar Kiya’ (1989) and ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun!’ (1994), passed away at his Andheri residence on Saturday. He was 81.
“He was in Kokilaben Hospital for almost three months and brought back home ten days ago. He passed away at 4 am,” his spokesperson Pritam Sharma told TOI.
Composers Uttam Singh, Anu Malik and Anand Raaj Anand performed his last rites in Oshiwara. Uttam Singh said, “He was a saintly man — my dear friend of 50 years. I tended to him and took him to hospital over eight years when he underwent multiple surgeries. Our winning partnership in ‘Maine Pyar Kiya’ and ‘Hum Aapke..’ created such evergreen hits.” Singh, Kohli and a third friend Shailesh Sawant met regularly over Sunday meals.
Singh said, “I will miss his friendship. Kohli Sahab had no vices. He did not smoke or drink or attend parties. Over the last 8-10 years, he had stopped working. If anyone urged him to write, he would say he will only do so if Uttam Singh composes the tune!”
The 1990s were the high noon of Kohli’s career. He wrote the floorscorcher, ‘Yeh kaali kaali aankhen’ (music: Anu Malik, singer: Kumar Sanu, film: ‘Baazigar’, 1993) that Shah Rukh Khan and Kaajol jived to with verve and zing. The chartbusting track from the Abbas-Mustan film became a nightclub favourite earning Kohli a Filmfare award nomination for best lyricist. Kohli also received nominations for the title tracks of ‘Maine Pyar Kiya’ and ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun’.
In all three cases, the award went to other nominees. Born in Rawalpindi (Pakistan) and growing up in Dehradun, Kohli had earlier penned two winners in another Abbas-Mustan suspense-thriller, ‘Khiladi’ (1992), an early Akshay Kumar hit. The songs, composed by Jatin-Lalit were, ‘Wada Raha Sanam’ and ‘Kya Khabar Thi Jaana’.
But the blockbuster success of ‘MPK’ and ‘HAHK’, both Rajshri Productions, propelled Kohli’s career to high gear. ‘Didi Tera Devar Deewana’ from HAHK (music: Raam Laxman, singers: Lata-SPB) was mandatory at every ladies sangeet. He would often collaborate with Anu Malik, in his prime then, churning out popular and populist lines such as ‘Oonchi Hai Building Lift Teri Bandh Hai’ (film: ‘Judwaa’, 1997) or ‘Akela Chal Raha Hoon Ek Gaadi Chahiye’ (film: ‘Mr And Mrs Khiladi’, 1997) that a David Dhawan film demanded. In several Dhawan ventures during this period, Kohli had a song or two. ‘Lift Teri Bandh Hai’ was also reprised in ‘Judwaa 2’ (2017).
Kohli had waited for serious success for a long time although ‘Geet Gaata Hoon’ (singer: Kishore Kumar, music: Shankar-Jaikishan), had happened when he was in his early 20s. It was the only song he wrote in director Sushil Majumdar’s ‘Lal Patthar’, a complex requiem to last-gasp feudalism in early 20th century colonial Bengal. Raaj Kumar and Hema Malini played the lead roles, though, the number was lip synced on screen by a young moustachioed Vinod Mehra.
The lyricist told this reporter in 2012, “The song’s success changed my life. I was immediately interviewed by magazines and on radio. From then on I started getting small films.” Those films include ‘Khoon Khoon’ (1973), which had the evocative bhajan, ‘Maati Ke Jalte Deepak’, ‘Kabhie Ajnabi They’ (1985) which had the melancholic 'Dil Ke Is Dehleez Tak' and several others such as ‘Ek Baar Kaho’. All these films flopped. It was only with ‘Maine Pyar Kiya’ that he vaulted to a bigger league.
(With inputs from Bella Jaisinghani)
-------------------------------------
HINDUSTAN TIMES (August 27, 2023)
Veteran lyricist and poet Dev Kohli, who gained popularity for his work in Salman Khan and Bhagyashree’s Maine Pyar Kiya (1989), died in Mumbai on Saturday. The news was confirmed by Kohli’s spokesperson, who shared that the veteran had been admitted to Kokilaben Ambani Hospital for the last few months and passed away in his sleep. Kohli was 81.
He had written over 100 songs for several Hindi films, including Baazigar (1993), Hum Aapke Hain Koun..! (1994), Musafir (2004), etc. While he was active primarily in the ’90s, the lyricist also worked on several recent films, such as Shootout At Lokhandwala (2007) and Judwaa 2 (2017). In a career that spanned from 1969 to 2013, he collaborated with different generations of composers, from Shankar-Jaikishan to Vishal-Shekhar.
Several celebs took to X to share heartfelt tributes to the artiste. Actor Renuka Shahane shared, “Kaisey bhool paaungi mein baba woh bachpan ki kahaniyaan.”
Singer-music director Shekhar Ravjiani wrote, “Had the honour and privilege of working with #devkohli sahab on Musafir and Taxi 9211 … What a wonderful human being and an extraordinary lyricist .. Thank you for the beautiful songs.”
Being on TV filled me with confidence-Sheykhar Ravjiani
8:11 AM
Soumya Vajpayee (HINDUSTAN TIMES; November 21, 2022)
Composer-singer Sheykhar Ravjiani is thankful to television for giving him an identity and taking him to every household. From being a reality show participant to making it to the judge’s chair, Ravjiani says the small screen has been an integral part of his musical journey. “In an era where there was no social media, as a composer and singer, I had to rely on mass media to connect with my listeners and fans. It was always good to be seen on television, as I could connect with a wider audience through my music and my presence on reality shows,” he tells us on World TV Day, today.
The Vikram Vedha composer was a contestant on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa in 1997, which he calls a “milestone moment”. He explains, “I suddenly found myself on stage, with the whole country watching. It was a defining moment for me as a singer. It filled me with the confidence I needed to take the next leap of faith towards my dreams. I also remember making a silent oath to myself to one day become such an accomplished composer and singer that I’d next appear on the same show as a judge and mentor — a dream that’s come true not once, but thrice.”
Ravjiani applauds TV for giving exposure to so many talented artistes: “Over the past decade, we’ve seen an unearthing of some incredible talent through music reality shows. These shows help discover the most treasured singers. It’s something to be proud of.”
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge musical to promote inclusivity
8:41 AM
MID-DAY (August 6, 2022)
Aditya Chopra’s Broadway-bound musical, 'Come Fall in Love', sheds light on the need for cultural unification in a growingly divisive world. Putting their money where their mouth is, the team has roped in technicians across departments from the East and West, with Indian and South Asians being represented.
Composers Vishal and Sheykhar say, “We are extremely proud that one of the most-loved Indian films, 'DDLJ' [Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge], is being adapted into the musical, 'Come Fall in Love', at The Old Globe San Diego, with all our sights firmly set on Broadway. This is the first time an Indian film is being adapted for Broadway by the original filmmaker himself. This is, therefore, also the first time India, our culture, our music, our dance and our wonderful open-heartedness is being represented to the world in this form, for and by creators and artistes from India, along with celebrated veterans of Broadway Musical Theatre. We, along with all the other South Asians in the cast and crew, are thrilled to be making such an illustrious debut. It is a collaboration of two worlds, of two cultures, as equals. We are celebrating inclusivity and equality.”
Playing Simran in this reimagined adaptation is Shoba Narayan, who adds, “The fact that we have an Indian musical headed to Broadway feels incredibly personal and monumental to me as an Indian-American actor who grew up loving Bollywood films and musical theatre. It was only a matter of time before Broadway and Bollywood found each other.”
Images: Kanika Kapoor ties the knot with beau Gautam Hathiramani
9:14 AM
BOMBAY TIMES (May 22, 2022)
Singer Kanika Kapoor tied the knot yesterday with her NRI beau, Gautam Hathiramani, in London. The bride wore a peach lehenga with heavy embroidery on it. She paired the ensemble with a choker necklace, mangtikaand bangles. Gautam opted for an ivory sherwanithat he wore with a turban for the occasion. Manmeet Singh (of Meet Bros), Shekhar Ravjiani and Iulia Vantur were among the guests present for Kanika’s big day.
Shekhar and Manmeet shared a few pictures from the wedding on social media. Shekhar, who also posted a video that had the bride walking towards the mandap, wrote, “To one of the most stunning brides I have ever seen…my gorgeous friend both inside and out @kanik4kapoor …Wish you and Gautam a lifetime of love, laughter and happiness (sic).”
Wishing the couple, Manmeet wrote, “May your journey ahead be as gorgeous as the two ofyou. . . Newlyweds @kanik4kapoor @gautamh (sic).”
On Friday, Kanika had shared some glimpses from her mehendi ceremony on social media in which she had donned a pastel green lehenga with floral jewellery. The Chittiyaan Kalaiyaan singer was previously married to London-based businessman Raj Chandok and has three kids with him. Kanika and Raj parted ways in 2011 and were officially divorced in 2012.
The Grammy was never on my list, but when I was nominated I was extremely happy-Shilpa Rao
8:24 AM
Debarati S Sen (BOMBAY TIMES; January 1, 2022)
Bollywood singer Shilpa Rao’s collaboration with composer-sitarist Anoushka Shankar last year, on the album Love Letters, got her a nomination in the ‘Best Global Music Album’ category for the 63rd Grammy Awards last year. The singer who has given chartbusters like Ghungroo (War), Meherbaan (Bang Bang!), Khuda Jaane (Bachna Ae Haseeno), Ishq Shava (Jab Tak Hai Jaan) among others, recently received the Grammy certificate.
She says, “For somebody who never felt since childhood that she would achieve anything, this was huge. Of course, the Grammy was never on my list, but when I was nominated, I was extremely happy and excited. ”
Shilpa believes it’s persistence that can take an individual a long way. “I think more than talent and hard work, persistence is the key because one has to work hard and never give up even when things do not go your way.”
Shilpa says that she has never looked at her songs as filmi or non-filmi. “Every recording is important to me because I am very emotionally invested in my songs,” she says.
Has the perception of people in the Hindi film music industry changed in any way because she has now got an international recognition? “Well, I have to say that everybody here was quite excited and happy. They were congratulating me from everywhere. Be it Sunidhi Chauhan, Shaan, Vishal Dadlani, Shekhar Ravjiani, Shankar Mahadevan, Pritam...everyone. This means a lot to me because I have worked with them, they are my friends and are a part of my life. We congratulate each other whenever we do things and that means so much to us. When I like a song by another musician, I pick up the phone and congratulate him or her. When people around you are happy to see your progress...that’s a very beautiful way of working,” she ends.
(L-R) Ayanna Witter-Johnson (cellist), Shilpa Rao and Anoushka Shankar
Over 26 years after Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge made cinematic history, Aditya Chopra to helm it for Broadway
8:32 AM
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; October 23, 2021)
In 1995, Aditya Chopra’s debut directorial, the country’s longest running film Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge. 26 years later, Chopra is set to direct DDLJ all over again and this time it will mark his debut as a director on Broadway. As someone who believes Broadway and Indian films are ‘two long lost lovers separated in time’ because of their intrinsic similarities as both celebrate heart-warming stories and human emotions through music and dance, the transition was long coming. Aditya has been working on this passion project for the past three years and has roped in a stellar, extremely diverse team, comprising some of the best talents of Broadway and India for the same.
Come…Fall In Love - The DDLJ Musical is being produced by Yash Raj Films. Based on an original story by Chopra, the musical will feature book and lyrics by Laurence Oliver Award-winner Nell Benjamin (Legally Blonde, Mean Girls), top Indian songwriters Vishal Dadlani & Shekhar Ravjiani will serve as composers. Tony and Emmy winner Rob Ashford (Frozen, Thoroughly Modern Millie, The Boys from Syracuse) will choreograph with associate choreographer Shruti Merchant.
The design team will also include set design by Emmy and Tony Award winner Derek McLane (Moulin Rouge!, Hairspray Live!, 33 Variations) and music supervision by Tony, Grammy, and Emmy Award-winning Bill Sherman (In The Heights, Sesame Street, Hamilton). Adam Zotovich is the Executive Producer for the project.
Set to be on stage in the Broadway season of 2022-2023, the team is looking at a World Premiere at the Old Globe Theatre in San Diego September 2022. A global casting search begins shortly headed by Duncan Stewart of Stewart/Whitley casting and YRF casting head Shanoo Sharma.
In a note, Chopra sent to mid-day, he wrote, “Summer 1985. I was 14 and on a holiday in London. My parents took my brother and me for our first musical theatre experience. The lights dimmed, the curtains lifted and what unfolded in the next 3 hours left me speechless and stunned. Now, till then, I was a kid who was an avid movie watcher and what I loved the most was big screen Indian blockbusters. But that day what I saw on stage blew my mind. I couldn’t believe that this kind of spectacle could be created live on stage. But the most significant aspect that resonated with me was how similar musical theatre was to our Indian films. It was just not the fact that both use songs to tell the story, it was much more than that, it was the feeling they evoked which was exactly the same. The burst of colours, the heightened drama, the passionate singing, the unabashed dancing, a classic story, a happy end. It filled me with the same joy and emotions that a good Indian film does. I realised then, that worlds apart, languages apart, western musical theatre and Indian films are two long lost lovers separated in time. In Autumn 2021, I’m embarking on my most ambitious project till date. I’m reuniting two long lost lovers, Broadway Musical and Indian Films. 26 years back I started my career with a film called Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ, what it is more famously known as). The film created history and changed my life and many others forever. But what many don’t know is that I never intended to make DDLJ in Hindi. As a 23 year old young man greatly influenced by Hollywood and American pop culture, I thought I would make a couple of Indian films and then I would be off to Hollywood and make DDLJ for a worldwide English speaking audience with Tom Cruise as my leading man. That obviously didn’t happen. DDLJ released in 1995 and became the longest running film of Indian cinema. It gave me my identity and kickstarted an amazing journey for which I’ll always be grateful. 26 years later I’m going back to my original vision of the story of DDLJ, a love story of an American boy and an Indian girl, a love story of two cultures…two worlds. But this time the medium is not cinema but theatre. 26 years later I will be directing DDLJ all over again but this time as an English language Broadway Musical for a worldwide audience. I’m terribly nervous and incredibly excited. I’m a hardcore cinema guy, I have never done theatre in my life and here I am trying to pull off the craziest ambition of my life. But what is giving me confidence is the fantastic team that I have. Each one of them are masters of their field and their brilliance and expertise is going to make this a fantastic show. The past 3 years as we have developed this passion project, I have learnt so much from them and discovered the unbelievable talent that the Broadway community has. I feel 23 again, the same age I was when I directed DDLJ. I’m once again a student, each one of my team members is more experienced than me in the world of theatre, I’m the rookie and I’m loving every moment of it. I’m all set to learn, explore, create and enjoy these wonderful theatre artists and the magical world of Broadway Musicals."
Nell Benjamin adds, “DDLJ was my introduction to Indian filmmaking before I even knew who the amazing Aditya Chopra was, and the movie had such joy and heart that I fell in love with it. I was so happy to be approached to do the musical and I hope my work helps everyone fall in love with Simran and Rog and their journey across multiple cultures to love. The world can always use a little more cultural understanding, and I can’t wait to sit in a theater with an audience sharing the joy and surprise of this project."
What we have done is just the warm up-Shreya Ghoshal, Shekhar Ravjiani
8:29 AM
Shreya Ghoshal, Shekhar Ravjiani are aware of the measures they've taken to survive in the industry for 20 years. In an interaction, they say they are only getting started
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; February 1, 2021)
Two years after Shekhar Ravjiani and Shreya Ghoshal first expressed their interest in collaborating on this property, mid-day is finally able to have them arrive at a time suitable to both. Brought together via a video-conferencing app, the talkative singer-composer duo leave little scope for a third person’s intervention. Over cups of coffee, they amuse one another with poor jokes, and us, with noteworthy stories of their respective journeys in the music industry. Edited excerpts from the interview:
Shreya: How has this phase been for you? You look so comfortable in Khandala that it seems like you no longer want to come back.
Shekhar: This has been a great year for me. I understand that people have gone through a tough time, physically, mentally, in their relationships and due to the pressure of work. But, for me, it was like a gate had opened. I didn’t have to think about anything, and simply went with the flow. If someone asked me which year has been among my most favourite in recent past, it will be 2020. Things rolled with ease. I was busy [working for] my music school, and making songs without worrying about the platform for which they were being created, or how they were being promoted. I wanted to go back to that stage in my life when I had no films, and created music because I loved to do so. Those wings are out now, and I am experiencing that feeling of flying [again].
Shreya: I had a similar experience. I have never spent as much time in my kitchen or living room as I have been spending now. The first few days were about cooking meals. Then, it seemed like [we had been in lockdown for] too long. At some point, I [feared] for the future. Then, I gave in, and took to a routine I had once diligently followed. [I began to] do my riyaaz regularly. An aspect of self-improvement was completely lacking in my life. And implementing that again has brought about a big change.
Shekhar: If you could revisit your life and do anything differently, what would that be?
Shreya: Had the things that happened to me, not have happened, I would not have been able to take the decisions that I did to reach here. I lived in Rajasthan, in a township of scientists and engineers. No one in the community had made a career out of music, and often [school authorities] would frown upon me for skipping school to fulfil a music commitment. But, my parents were supportive, and made me believe that what I was doing was special, and I was privileged to have this gift. I didn’t have a degree. My friends are all big techies today, and I could have been among them. But I would have been mediocre, and I am glad that I didn’t [choose another career]. I realised early on that I may not be great, but I felt good about myself when I sang.
Shreya: Tell us about how you fell in love with music.
Shekhar: It started pretty early. Luckily, my family members were such that if any chord was struck at home, each member was capable of catching the note and singing in tune. We didn’t come from a music background, but music was always played at home. When guests would come over, people would jam. My dad was a phenomenal accordion player, which he pursued as a hobby. I eventually took music lessons from the piano player Xavier Fernandes. I was never interested in the first 50 minutes of the sessions, which involved theory. But, the last 10 minutes, when he taught me a song, were cherished. I would practice what he’d teach in those last minutes, long after he would leave. Thus, I say, I have learnt by listening. A friend who worked for Mr Mukul Anand took a tape of mine to him. He heard it, and wanted to meet me. At 16, I got my first job as a composer and singer, and at 17, I was among the busiest composers for 60-second ads.
Shreya: When did [your debut film] Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi, come out?
Shekhar: I had been working in the industry for seven years before it came my way. It was made by Mukul Anand’s assistant Raj Kaushal, and most of the artistes associated with the film, went on to [achieve immense fame].
Shreya: I want to know about your new music school, the GIIS Shekhar Ravjiani School of Music.
Shekhar: In 2018-2019, I did workshops in Singapore. The kids were so talented, and sang Carnatic and Hindustani classical music so well, that the limited workshops that I did there were very successful. That’s when we locked the GIIS and Shekar Ravjiani Music School, with 22 campuses and 15,000 students. Fifteen of them will be personally mentored by me. I will pick those students who really have the desire to learn, and who are happy souls. Your heart has to be happy to flourish.
Shekhar: Can you tell us about your latest song?
Shreya: The music that we have around us is not inspiring. With Angana more, I wanted to do a bandish, but decided to make a song instead. I wanted it to be unique, and that is when [I roped in] my brother [Soumyadeep]. He is a full-time techie, but has always been passionate about music. But, neither did [the family] encourage him to take it up [professionally], nor did he consider it a [career option]. But, he has found an outlet [to express himself]. I have been a singer and have not been [exposed to] the process of composing. So, this is a journey I really enjoyed.
Shreya: I want you to start working on the collection of songs you have created. When do we begin? I am supposed to work on many of them.
Shekhar: Yea, unfortunately I haven’t been able to connect with Shreya Ghoshal. Do you have a line on her?
Our duty is to give doctors, nurses their due respect-Raveena Tandon
8:18 AM
Raveena Tandon launches social media campaign to combat rising cases of violence against COVID-19 heroes
Mohar Basu (MID-DAY; May 5, 2020)
Even as they bravely fight the Coronavirus, Indian healthcare workers, over the past few weeks, have had to endure it all — from neighbours forcing them out of their buildings to being attacked by mobs. Appalled at the way a section of society is treating the Corona warriors, actor Raveena Tandon has kicked off a social media campaign, #JeetegaIndiaJeetengeHum, urging people to take a stand for them.
"In the current difficult situation, the medical forces have turned into real-life heroes. While all of us are safe at home under lockdown, it's so disheartening to see people attacking our doctors and nurses. At a time like this, it's our duty to give them their due respect. We ought to value them," states Tandon.
Several celebrities — including Shilpa Shetty Kundra, fashion designers Manish Malhotra and Masaba Gupta, music composer Shekhar Ravjiani, former cricketer Yuvraj Singh, and journalist Vir Sanghvi — have supported the campaign by sharing videos applauding the frontline workers. Through these daily videos, they try to debunk fake news, thereby combating the rise of violence against medical professionals.
Tandon hopes an increasing number of social media influencers will join the campaign and spread the good word. "Rumours about healthcare workers need to stop. They are sacrificing everything to ensure our present and future is safe. So, it's our responsibility to reach out to the masses and put an end to the cases of violence being reported across the country."
The original is the original, and honestly, Dus Bahane didn't need to be revamped - Vishal-Shekhar
8:19 AM
Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani -- who made Dus Bahane a hit, not once but twice -- on changing tastes in Bollywood
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; February 17, 2020)
For an artiste who has been rather vociferous about his displeasure with the ongoing trend of rehashing old ditties, Vishal Dadlani took us by surprise when, along with co-composer Shekhar Ravjiani, he agreed to remix Dus bahane [Dus]. On probing, we learnt that the duo would have preferred if the track wasn't meddled with. Their decision to intervene was taken to merely "save" their celebrated chart-buster. In an interview with mid-day, they reveal how they got the makers of Baaghi 3 to let them helm their composition.
When did you learn of the remix and what was the discussion you had with Bhushan Kumar and Ahmed Khan [Baaghi 3 director] about it?
Vishal: We heard about it over a month ago. After I tweeted [discouraging] musicians from relying on old songs, Ahmed, an old friend, called and said they [team of Baaghi 3] had used Dus bahane for his film. We spoke to Sajid Nadiadwala [producer], and both of them were gracious enough to say that they had shot it, but we could change it if we didn't like it. They even said that if we wanted it to be deleted, they would do so. After that, of course we wouldn't do anything that could cause them losses. Bhushan came by our studio, and asked us to help them out. So, we did what we could, given that it had already been shot to a very generic 'remix' track. We had two options; we could either take the legal route, and cause everyone pain and losses, or try and salvage an unfortunate situation. We chose the latter, because we have worked with, and are friends with everyone concerned. We only wish that they had come to us first.
What were the instructions you gave Meghdeep [Bose, producer] for the remix?
Shekhar: Unfortunately, we were stuck with the tempo and the verse of the version that had already been shot. So, we told Meghdeep to try to [make] it as close to the original as is possible, especially the [vocals] and the groove.
Are you happy with the final result? Would you say you enjoyed the process?
Vishal: The original is the original, and honestly, it didn't need [to be] revamped. It wasn't [created] that long ago anyway. Also, we would have probably [approached it] differently if we hadn't been brought on-board at such a late stage. Still, we're glad that this one will certainly send a lot of new people searching for the original.
Twenty years into the industry, what according to you is the biggest change you have seen in film music trends?
Shekhar: The film music-business used to set trends. Now, it seems to follow them. Filmmakers seem to have forgotten the value that a unique tonal quality [brings] to the entire film, and of songs that tell stories alongside dialogues. Songs now are mostly meant to promote films, and are not necessarily part of the narrative. The tragedy is that songs like those from Jhankaar Beats, Om Shanti Om, Tashan or Tiger Zinda Hai have become rare. Those are the songs that people remember films by, even after the films have left theatres. Movies may make more money today, and songs may stream in millions, but, now [we rarely see] audiences re-living the emotions of a film through the songs. Thankfully, the few true filmmakers left, value this.
At this stage, what can you tell us about the compositions of your future projects?
Vishal: We're doing two films right now, one for YRF and the other [Khaali Peeli] for Ali Abbas Zafar [producer]. We are also writing music for two international projects based out of the UK.
We wouldn’t want anyone else to remix our songs, say Vishal-Shekhar
8:12 AM
Vishal-Shekhar recently remixed their own song for the first time
Debarati Sen (BOMBAY TIMES; February 15, 2020)
Composer duo Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani were recently in the news when they expressed their displeasure regarding remixes. They even issued a legal warning to people against remixing their work without their consent or giving incorrect credits. Attempts by a section of the music industry publishers to remake/recreate an old song by adding or changing a couple of lines, crediting the new composer for it and delinking the original composers from their actual work, was unacceptable to them. What triggered this move was the news that their hit track Dus Bahane was being recreated for Baaghi 3. That’s when the duo decided to be proactive; they intervened in the project and recreated the 15-year-old dance number themselves.
Talking about it, Vishal said, “This is the first time we have recreated our own song. We did it because a lot of the new remixes are just substandard quickie jobs, which have been done on low budgets, by people looking to make a quick buck or to add their name to an already successful product. We didn’t want that to happen to songs that we have created in the past. Dus Bahane 2.0 still sounds fresher than a lot of the music being made now. We didn’t want it to be given the chop-shop treatment that usual remixes sound like. We wouldn’t want anyone else to remix our songs.”
Vishal, however, maintained that recreations can never be better than the original, “As the saying goes, ‘Baap baap hota hai’. The idea was to just refresh the song, with a strong hint of nostalgia, and a beat that makes you dance. What we did was to try and keep the essence of the original intact, and since it’s our song, to have a little fun with it.”
Working on the recreation was a challenge for the composers because the song had already been shot and they had to match their composition with it.
Shekhar explained, “The tempo was faster than we would have liked, but we had to keep that because it had already been shot. So, we started from scratch and made a track that fit Tiger Shroff’s vibe and Shraddha Kapoor’s moves.”
The duo retained the original voices of Shaan, KK, their own and added female vocals with Tulsi Kumar.
“This particular instance will also define the future of how songs are respectfully and correctly re-used with the consent of and full credit to the original creators. I hope it is a breakthrough for not just this film and crew, but for the entire industry,” signed off Vishal.
We're doing whatever we can to save Dus Bahane song-Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani
8:50 AM
Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani intervene to take charge of rehashed version of their 2005 original, Dus Bahane, after learning that Baaghi 3 makers were working on one
Sonia Lulla (MID-DAY; February 3, 2020)
Upon its release 15 years ago, Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani's Dus Bahane became a party anthem of sorts. Now, the fast-paced number from Dus (2005) has been revisited by Tiger Shroff and Shraddha Kapoor for Baaghi 3. In an age where Bollywood songs are constantly being reinvented, Dadlani has been at the forefront, criticising the trend.In a previous interview with mid-day, he had referred to his slate of angry tweets when reiterating that he wouldn't take lightly to filmmakers contemplating remixing their songs, asserting that the feat may take away from the body of work of artistes who were "trying to create a legacy". It hence took us by surprise when we learnt that the duo was willing to rehash their own song. In a joint statement, the duo says, "We're doing whatever we can to save our song. It had already been shot to some chop-shop version, before we found out and objected. We insisted on creative approval, remuneration and primary and sole credit for our composition. Thankfully, everyone concerned has recognised and understood our right to protect our work, [and] our refusal to allow it to be released with anyone else's name on it. Ahmed Khan and Sajid Nadiadwala have been supportive. Bhushan Kumar too had a long chat and promised to never re-use our music without our involvement. Since this had already been shot to a version we didn't particularly care for, we are now trying to fix it so that a song that we all love, and one that has stood the passage of 16 years, isn't reduced to merely another shoddy 'remix'."
Responding to suggestions that Dadlani may also render his vocals to the revisited track, the duo says, "We haven't decided about that yet. We may keep the original vocals, because Shekhar and I are great friends with [original singers] KK and Shaan. We started together, and were part of this path-breaking track. But, since the tempo and verse have changed, we may need to replace the vocals too. Will decide in a day or two."
-------------------------
Upala KBR (MID-DAY; February 3, 2020)
Contrary to reports that suggested that Disha Patani would be seen in the reprised version of Dus bahane, mid-day has learnt that the song has the film's leading lady Shraddha Kapoor matching steps with Tiger Shroff. A source from the creative team reveals that director Ahmed Khan shot the track last December. "It was filmed across Serbia, Georgia, the Sambhar Salt Lake in Rajasthan, and Mumbai. Ahmed reimagined it as a stylised number that was shot against white backgrounds across the locales. He roped in couturier Aki Narula to design bright-coloured outfits for the leads."
We have a duty to elevate each film that we do, both emotionally as well as at the box office - Vishal-Shekhar
8:26 AM
Dhaval Roy (DNA; November 18, 2018)
Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani (better known as Vishal-Shekhar) have had just one release in 2017 (Tiger Zinda Hai, TZH) as well as in 2018 (Telugu film Naa Peru Surya, Naa Illu India), but 2019 looks big for the duo. Apart from Salman Khan’s Bharat, they have Karan Johar’s Student Of The Year 2 (SOTY2) and YRF’s as-yet-untitled film starring Hrithik Roshan and Tiger Shroff. Right now, they can be seen as judges of music reality shows Indian Idol and Zee TV’s Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, respectively. They spoke to After Hrs about their upcoming movies, their partnership, creative differences and solo works.
THREE BIGGIES NEXT YEAR
Even though TZH was their only movie album last year, Dil Diyan Gallan and Swag Se Swagat were both chartbusters, with the latter being the first Hindi track to cross 600 million views on YouTube. Quiz the composers why they have been missing in action of late and Vishal replies, “SOTY 2 was supposed to come out sooner, so we spent a lot of time working on it. On a few occasions, release schedules go for a bit of a toss. We normally do two films a year, but next year will be three.”
Shekhar reminds us that they composed for Fan, Befikre, Sultan, and TZH back to back. “So, it might look like just a couple of films a year but suddenly for us it was a lot of work,” he says. Having fewer films does not bother them. In fact, the former states that it works well for the two. “We like to focus on what we’re doing, and give it the time and love it deserves,” he avers.
Describing the three projects, he says, “SOTY 2 is young and hip while keeping its soul intact. The Hrithik-Tiger film is a dance-action flick, so there are just a few songs, but they are quite cool. Bharat is rooted and large in terms of the number of songs as well as the scale of the sound. So, what we are trying to do is like leading three different lives simultaneously.”
GOING STRONG SINCE TWO DECADES
Remind the duo that it’s been almost two decades since they debuted in Bollywood, with Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi (1999) and he exclaims, “Is it? Damn! Time flies!” Shekhar beams with pride and says, “We have done about 450 songs and been together on stage, television as well as in the studio having a blast. It feels like we’ve just got started.” The Chennai Express composers say that they have stayed on top of the game by never treating their work as a contest. “We have a duty to elevate each film that we do, both emotionally as well as at the box office, and that’s what we focus on,” Vishal emphasises.
CONFLICTS GALORE
Though they dish out crackerjack tunes together, differences between them are inevitable. Shekhar explains, “I have my views and he has his, but that’s how music is created. It’s all about jamming. Sometimes, I sing the first line and he nails the next one and vice versa.” At other times, one dislikes what the other has created and he adds, “We have creative differences in almost every single song, but that makes the number bigger and better.” These days, however, their greatest fights are about nuts and coffee! “I keep stealing almonds and walnuts that Shekhar stows away to snack on in a hunger emergency,” Vishal states. “And I slink his coffee,” the latter laughs. Their last explosive fight was back in 2009-10, when Vishal was going through a bad personal phase and it percolated into work. “Thankfully, Shekhar kept a cool head and was patient with me. That was the last big one,” he recalls.
SOLO WORKS
Vishal frontlines one of the biggest Indian bands Pentagram while Shekhar has a solo career, too. However, in the indie space, they haven’t collaborated yet. “That’s going to happen soon,” reveals the soft-spoken singer-composer, adding, “There will be an announcement of something big.” The musicians have co-judged Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Challenge in 2007 and Indian Idol Junior in 2013 among others, but now they stick to separate shows. “There is no one else I’d rather judge a show with. But, production houses or channels always try to get us as a ‘package deal’,” Vishal reasons candidly. Shekhar adds, “He is my best and the most ideal co-judge. If someone pays us a fat cheque, we will do a show together.”
Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani (left); and Salman Khan and Katrina Kaif in a still from the song Swag Se Karenge
Farah Khan, Vishal Dadlani, Shekhar Ravjiani to make special appearance in Student Of The Year 2
7:58 AM
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; October 19, 2018)
Three guests dropped by the sets of Punit Malhotra’s upcoming directorial, Student Of The Year 2, while its leads — Tiger Shroff, Ananya Panday and Tara Sutaria — were shooting for a song. Choreographer-turned-filmmaker Farah Khan, and singer-composers Vishal Dadlani and Shekhar Ravjiani are set to make an appearance as judges during a dance contest sequence in the film.
Incidentally, Farah had also played a judge in part one of the series, that had featured Sidharth Malhotra, Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt in their acting debuts and released in 2012.
“Yes, I have a special appearance in the sequel, like I did in the original film, as a judge for the dance contest. Punit, who is a close friend, requested me to do it. Karan’s (Johar) production house is home to me,” Farah informed. The song has been choreographed by Remo D’souza.
Bollywood stars reveal who's the Santa Claus in their lives
8:05 AM
MID-DAY (December 24, 2017)
Industry artistes on who showers them with gifts, inspiration and affection all year round
Kailash Kher
My [late] mother and father are my Santa Clauses. They taught me the art of giving. I feel their presence in the appreciation and love that I get for my deeds. Even though they are not physically present, I feel their guidance in my instinct and conscience.
Yo Yo Honey Singh
My father, Sardaar Sarabjit Singh, is my Santa Claus. He’s the most hard-working person I’ve seen. [Being a mechanical engineer] he would travel for months on work, so that he could provide my younger sister and me with the best.
Sonakshi Sinha
My dad [Shatrughan Sinha] has been my Santa Claus. He would travel for work often, and whenever he returned, he was never empty-handed. Dad would always bring back a doll, or the latest toy, or a souvenir.
Shamita Shetty
It’s definitely my sister [Shilpa Shetty Kundra]. No matter how busy she is, she is always there for me. Every year, I make a list, and let her know what I want. Come Christmas, whether I’ve been naughty or nice, I have always been rewarded. She is my friend, mentor and my super sexy Santa too.
Shekhar Ravjiani
Every child that make me smile and every listener who expresses his/her love for my music, is my Santa. I celebrate Christmas every day. With my current bearded look, I think I am also starting to resemble Santa.
Saiyami Kher
The Santa in my life is Gulzar saab. He is full of life. Every time I meet him, he gifts me a wonderful book. He brings a smile to my face. I wish the world had more people like him.
Swara Bhaskar
My parents have been my Santas, always getting me gifts when I least expect to receive any. And now, Sonam Kapoor and my Nil Battey Sannata director, Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, play that role. Both are constantly spoiling me.
Check out Sonakshi Sinha with her mother Poonam Sinha on Om Shanti Om
7:48 AM
Natasha Coutinho (MUMBAI MIRROR; October 16, 2017)
Sonakshi Sinha kicked off
Diwali celebrations early with a special episode of her devotional
reality show, Om Shanti Om. According to a source from the sets,
co-judge singer Kanika Kapoor was supposed to start the episode with the
aarti but Sona took over as the singer has a problem with smoke. Her
mother, Poonam Sinha, made an appearance as a guest judge.
“Sona, Kanika and the third judge, Shekhar Ravjiani, took part in a rangoli competition which mamma Poonam judged. Meet Bros - Manmeet and Harmeet - were the other guests and performed to the song 'Ramji Ka Naam Lo',“ adds the source.
“Sona, Kanika and the third judge, Shekhar Ravjiani, took part in a rangoli competition which mamma Poonam judged. Meet Bros - Manmeet and Harmeet - were the other guests and performed to the song 'Ramji Ka Naam Lo',“ adds the source.
Why will I throw tantrums? I am a positive person-Shekhar Ravjiani
7:19 AM
Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; September 29, 2017)
From being someone who
preferred to be in the background and quietly let his work speak for
himself, musician Shekhar Ravjiani (of the Vishal-Shekhar) fame, no
longer believes in keeping a low profile. The past few years have seen
Shekhar acting, writing songs and judging reality shows. Currently, the
composer is judging the devotional music reality show, Om Shanti Om,
with Sonakshi Sinha and Kanika Kapoor. While talks about him throwing
tantrums on the set have been doing the rounds, Shekhar clears the air
in an exclusive interview with BT. Excerpts:
Till recently, you maintained a low profile and weren't comfortable in the limelight. Now, we see you singing, judging shows, acting in films and more. What made you undergo this transition?
There was no conscious effort. I just went with the flow. You sustain in this industry only because of good work. So, if I get an opportunity to act or sing, why wouldn't I? It's true that I kept a low profile earlier, but later, I got many opportunities to do different things.
There are stories of you throwing tantrums on the sets...
That's not true. Why will I throw tantrums? I am a positive person and I only focus on my work. I don't waste my energy on people who spread such stories about me.
There are also rumours that you share cold vibes with fellow jury member, Kanika Kapoor. Seems, you joke about her linguistic skills on the sets...
Kanika has trained under a veteran musician like Anup Jalota, and I respect her for what she brings to the show. We are having a blast, and there are no cold vibes.
The decision by the makers of a dance reality show, to choose writer Chetan Bhagat as a judge, had become controversial. As a musician, what do you feel about actors judging music reality shows?
We are all artistes; so, it would be unfair to say that only musicians can judge reality shows. If I can act, Sonakshi (Sinha) can judge a music reality show. She comes from a family that has seen it all in showbiz, and she has sung a couple of songs, too. So, I don't see any reason why that should be questioned.
There were also reports of you not getting along with Shaan on another music reality show...
That's not true at all, we had a blast.
A few months back, there were strong talks about you and your music partner Vishal Dadlani splitting...
Vishal and I have fought many times. In fact, we are planning to fight again and then perform at a reunion concert together. It has taken us 20 years to understand each other, and we plan to kill all these rumours by remaining together for the next two decades. We are both creative and eccentric and believe in doing good work. Even if we have fought, it was only for making a better product.
From a career point of view, is it sensible to stay together? If Vishal and you don't split, it will result in more and better projects...
I have not really thought about that. But yeah, it is in our best interests to be together. We can create good music together.
Recently, there has been a lot of debate over children participating in reality shows. While some feel strongly against it, others are cheering for it. What's your take?
I think reality shows are a holiday for kids. Not all children are seeing it as a career option. Many artistes, including Sunidhi Chauhan, Shreya Ghosal, Kunal Ganjawala and I, have participated in music reality shows. These days, schools are supportive, and if a child has the talent, and his/her parents are encouraging, what's wrong with it? I would like to do anything that makes my child happy.
On the personal front, it was a tough year for Vishal, who separated from his wife...
Vishal is a close colleague and a family member. I will stand by him, no matter what happens in his life.
Do you feel that showbiz takes a toll on your personal life?
I don't want to comment on my personal life.
Till recently, you maintained a low profile and weren't comfortable in the limelight. Now, we see you singing, judging shows, acting in films and more. What made you undergo this transition?
There was no conscious effort. I just went with the flow. You sustain in this industry only because of good work. So, if I get an opportunity to act or sing, why wouldn't I? It's true that I kept a low profile earlier, but later, I got many opportunities to do different things.
There are stories of you throwing tantrums on the sets...
That's not true. Why will I throw tantrums? I am a positive person and I only focus on my work. I don't waste my energy on people who spread such stories about me.
There are also rumours that you share cold vibes with fellow jury member, Kanika Kapoor. Seems, you joke about her linguistic skills on the sets...
Kanika has trained under a veteran musician like Anup Jalota, and I respect her for what she brings to the show. We are having a blast, and there are no cold vibes.
The decision by the makers of a dance reality show, to choose writer Chetan Bhagat as a judge, had become controversial. As a musician, what do you feel about actors judging music reality shows?
We are all artistes; so, it would be unfair to say that only musicians can judge reality shows. If I can act, Sonakshi (Sinha) can judge a music reality show. She comes from a family that has seen it all in showbiz, and she has sung a couple of songs, too. So, I don't see any reason why that should be questioned.
There were also reports of you not getting along with Shaan on another music reality show...
That's not true at all, we had a blast.
A few months back, there were strong talks about you and your music partner Vishal Dadlani splitting...
Vishal and I have fought many times. In fact, we are planning to fight again and then perform at a reunion concert together. It has taken us 20 years to understand each other, and we plan to kill all these rumours by remaining together for the next two decades. We are both creative and eccentric and believe in doing good work. Even if we have fought, it was only for making a better product.
From a career point of view, is it sensible to stay together? If Vishal and you don't split, it will result in more and better projects...
I have not really thought about that. But yeah, it is in our best interests to be together. We can create good music together.
Recently, there has been a lot of debate over children participating in reality shows. While some feel strongly against it, others are cheering for it. What's your take?
I think reality shows are a holiday for kids. Not all children are seeing it as a career option. Many artistes, including Sunidhi Chauhan, Shreya Ghosal, Kunal Ganjawala and I, have participated in music reality shows. These days, schools are supportive, and if a child has the talent, and his/her parents are encouraging, what's wrong with it? I would like to do anything that makes my child happy.
On the personal front, it was a tough year for Vishal, who separated from his wife...
Vishal is a close colleague and a family member. I will stand by him, no matter what happens in his life.
Do you feel that showbiz takes a toll on your personal life?
I don't want to comment on my personal life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)