Vishal Shelke Opens Up About 'Manjogi' Collaboration with Sonu Nigam
Composer Vishal Shelke, the musical mind behind 'Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain – Fun on the Run', has shared detailed insights into his creative journey for the film. In a candid conversation, he revealed the behind-the-scenes struggle to secure legendary singer Sonu Nigam for the pivotal track 'Manjogi', while also addressing broader challenges faced by music creators in the Hindi film industry.
The Producer Push for Contemporary Voices vs. Shelke's Vision
Shelke disclosed that during initial discussions, film producers were inclined toward more contemporary playback singers, specifically suggesting Arijit Singh and Jubin Nautiyal to align with current trends. "The producers, keeping the current trend in mind, were suggesting Arijit Singh and Jubin Nautiyal," Shelke stated. The song was consequently sent to both artists. "Arijit loved the song and wanted to do it, but it was taking a little longer," he added, highlighting the delays that prompted a reevaluation.
Why Shelke Championed Sonu Nigam for 'Manjogi'
Despite producer preferences, Vishal Shelke remained steadfast in his conviction that Sonu Nigam was the ideal voice for 'Manjogi'. "Somewhere I felt this song truly belonged to Sonu Nigam," he explained. The track is picturized on Ravi Kishan's character, who experiences a deep, innocent love for Anguri. "Sonu Nigam's voice suited that innocence perfectly," Shelke emphasized. Upon presenting the song to Nigam, the response was immediate and enthusiastic. "I played the song to Sonu Nigam and he instantly liked it. He said, 'Let's do it,'" Shelke recalled.
A Legendary Recording Session and Artistic Commitment
Describing Sonu Nigam as a legend, Shelke recounted the singer's extraordinary dedication during the recording. "He flew straight from a concert in Jaipur, came to Yash Raj Studios, recorded the song, and the very next day left for a show in Kolkata," Shelke shared, underscoring Nigam's professionalism. The session was marked by creative experimentation, with Nigam blending Western and Indian vocal styles. "He experimented with tones, moving between Western and Indian styles. Once we locked the emotion, it was magical," Shelke said, noting that the team at Zee Studios was left spellbound by the final output.
Clarifying Arijit Singh's Playback Singing Status
Addressing widespread speculation about Arijit Singh stepping away from playback singing, Shelke provided clarity. "He hasn't quit music. He has only chosen to stop playback singing," Shelke clarified. He elaborated that Singh will continue to pursue independent music projects, live concerts, and focus on his growing passion for filmmaking, indicating a strategic shift rather than a complete withdrawal from the industry.
The Under-Credited Role of Music in Cinema
Shelke also spoke passionately about the often-overlooked contributions of music creators in Bollywood. "Films like 'Aashiqui' or 'Chak De India' worked largely because of their music," he asserted. He pointed out a persistent issue where audiences remember iconic songs but frequently forget the composers and lyricists behind them. "People remember the songs, but not the composers or lyricists. That needs to change," Shelke urged, advocating for greater recognition within the industry.
Why 'Manjogi' Was the Most Challenging Composition
According to Vishal Shelke, 'Manjogi' presented the greatest compositional challenge in the film. "The film was largely a comedy, but Ravi Kishan's love story added emotional depth. We needed one song that could emotionally bind the entire film," he explained. The music was meticulously tailored to reflect the character's duality—a feared, gun-carrying individual with a soft, innocent heart. "Ravi Kishan's character is feared, carries a gun, but is emotionally soft. His love for Anguri is pure and innocent, and the music had to reflect that," Shelke detailed. He revealed that after initial dissatisfaction with the score, he introduced a fresh musical approach that ultimately resonated with the filmmakers.
Vishal Shelke's Future Projects and Genre Exploration
Looking ahead, Vishal Shelke is expanding his creative horizons beyond romantic comedies. "I've finished work on a thriller with a major Bollywood hero and a South actress, and I've also started a horror film inspired by something like 'Annabelle'," he shared enthusiastically. This move signals his desire to explore diverse genres, bringing his musical expertise to thrillers and horror projects, thereby showcasing his versatility as a composer in the evolving landscape of Indian cinema.
