Shashwat Sachdev on Reviving 'Jogi' and Crafting Music for Dhurandhar Franchise
In an exclusive interview, acclaimed music composer Shashwat Sachdev delves into his creative process for the blockbuster film Dhurandhar, his revival of the iconic Punjabi folk song Jogi, and his groundbreaking collaboration with legendary composer Hans Zimmer. Sachdev, who has been instrumental in shaping the sonic landscape of modern Hindi cinema, shares insights into nostalgia-driven music and his journey in the industry.
The Revival of 'Jogi' for Dhurandhar
Long before digital algorithms curated playlists, the Punjabi folk song Jogi, recorded by Mohammad Sadiq and Ranjit Kaur in the 1980s, resonated through cassette tapes in Punjab's trucks. Decades later, Sachdev reimagined this classic for Dhurandhar (2025), Aditya Dhar's action spectacle. By blending the original vocals with contemporary beats and featuring Kerala rapper Hanumankind and Indian-American singer Jasmine Sandlas, Sachdev created a track that bridges past and present. "The process was never about recreation. It was about re-contextualisation," Sachdev explains, highlighting the emotional responsibility of working with such a timeless piece.
Collaborative Dynamics and Creative Inputs
Sachdev credits actor Ranveer Singh for suggesting Hanumankind's inclusion, which infused the song with a modern edge. "Hanuman introduced a present-day voice into a long-standing cultural memory," Sachdev notes, emphasizing how this collaboration enhanced the track's appeal. The song's release alongside the film's teaser contributed to Dhurandhar's massive success, grossing over Rs 1,000 crore. Sachdev is also at the helm of the sequel, Dhurandhar 2: The Revenge, set for release on March 19, featuring Grammy-winning artist Doja Cat.
Musical Philosophy and Influences
Growing up in Jaipur, Sachdev was immersed in a diverse musical environment, with parents who appreciated Hindustani classical, poetry, and film music. His training in Western classical piano and sound design in Los Angeles shaped his unique vocabulary. "Looking back, I realise I was absorbing multiple musical languages long before I consciously knew I would need them," he reflects. This foundation allowed him to seamlessly blend nostalgic numbers like Usha Uthup's Rambha ho and Asha Bhosle's Piya tu with contemporary beats in Dhurandhar's eleven-track album.
Career Milestones and Industry Recognition
Sachdev's career took off with projects like Phillauri (2017) and Veere Di Wedding (2018), where hits like Bass gira de raja showcased his ability to merge folk idioms with modern sounds. His collaboration with director Aditya Dhar began with the background score for Uri: The Surgical Strike (2019), earning him a National Award. Sachdev describes Dhar as "quite particular about the music," noting that their partnership focuses on building "melodic and emotional universes" rather than isolated songs.
Historic Collaboration with Hans Zimmer
In a landmark achievement, Sachdev became the first Indian composer to work with Hans Zimmer, contributing to the soundtrack of the British crime series Virdee (2025). He recalls how Zimmer and arranger James Everingham valued his cultural insights. "That kind of exchange dissolves hierarchy and allows genuine collaboration to take place," Sachdev says, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in creative partnerships.
Future Projects and Creative Balance
Currently, Sachdev is finalizing music for Dhurandhar 2 and his Telugu debut, The India House, while also exploring independent, non-film music. "That balance keeps the creative process honest," he asserts, underscoring his commitment to diverse artistic endeavors. Through his work, Sachdev continues to redefine the boundaries of film music, blending tradition with innovation to captivate audiences worldwide.
