The recent International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa witnessed a memorable conversation between two celebrated music composers - veteran Vishal Bhardwaj and rising star Ajaneesh Loknath. The session turned into a mutual appreciation celebration that highlighted the power of cinematic music to transcend regional boundaries.
Mutual Admiration on the IFFI Stage
During the heartfelt dialogue, Vishal Bhardwaj made a stunning revelation about Ajaneesh Loknath's work in Kantara. Vishal described the Kantara theme as "one of the finest film themes ever composed" and admitted that the composition was so powerful it made him actively seek out the identity of its creator.
Ajaneesh Loknath, still processing the praise from his idol, shared his emotional reaction with Bangalore Times. "On the IFFI stage, when someone of Vishal Bhardwaj's stature says he has followed your music, it leaves you speechless," the composer expressed. He noted with amazement that Vishal was familiar with his entire body of work, including films like Ulidavaru Kandante, Kirik Party, Avane Sriman Narayana, and both Kantara movies.
Personal Connection Through Music
The conversation took an even more personal turn when Vishal Bhardwaj revealed how deeply Kantara's music had integrated into his family's daily life. "When he said, 'My wife plays Varaha Roopam at home every day, and the nadaswaram bit gets us misty-eyed,' it truly overwhelmed me," Ajaneesh shared.
He added emotionally, "What more can a composer ask for? Vishalji made my day." The Kantara composer also took the opportunity to express his long-standing admiration for Vishal Bhardwaj's work, particularly mentioning the impact of the film Maachis on his own musical journey.
Widespread Recognition at the Festival
Ajaneesh Loknath, accompanied by Kantara music producer Bobby CR, received praise from several prominent figures throughout the festival. Veteran actor Anupam Kher expressed high regard for the track Brahmalakasha and the film as a whole.
Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar also acknowledged the film's widespread appeal, mentioning that his grandchildren insisted he watch the Kantara prequel and that his entire family regularly enjoys the music.
Reflecting on these interactions, Ajaneesh emphasized the importance of platforms like IFFI. "These interactions made us realize how platforms like IFFI shine a spotlight not just on on-screen talent, but also on the creators working behind the scenes," he noted, adding that while composers know their work travels beyond regions, they rarely get to witness the actual impact it creates.
The session at IFFI Goa successfully highlighted how musical brilliance recognizes no boundaries, bringing together two generations of composers in a celebration of artistic excellence that resonated throughout the festival.
