Prem Ratan Dhan Payo's music is a hit. Was it difficult living up to everyone's expectations?
It was important to live up to the expectations from the banner (Rajshri Productions), Salman Khan and Sooraj Barjatya. This combination has never failed in any department. Now that the songs are a hit, and the response has been positive, I can breathe easy. We thought the songs would take a while to grow on people, but they caught on from the word go.
How long did you take to compose the music?
It took us a year or more. Sooraj ji was clear about what he wanted. He, Irshad Kamil (lyricist) and I worked in tandem on this album. Sooraj ji would dedicate time to me, the singers and Irshad in equal measure. While composing, I took into account the context of the song, the artistes' expressions and every other nitty-gritty. Sooraj ji wanted the lyrics to match Salman's personality, suit the situation and also have some meaning. So, we had to work very hard. We have followed his instructions to the T. The title track is heavy, but it has clicked big time.
The stakes were really high, right?
Barjatyas have given evergreen hits like Maine Pyar Kiya and Hum Aapke Hain Koun and I had to live up to that name. So, I'm very happy that I've not let Sooraj ji or Salman down.
Buzz is, the music rights were sold for Rs 17 crore. Did that add to the pressure?
Yes, money raises expectations by a mile. Considering the amount involved, I had to ensure that every song in the film works. Salman bhai has done so much for me, right from the time I started out. He's my brother. And he doesn't have five albums coming out in a year. So, neeyat saaf thi and we had everyone's prayers working for us. Also, there was no conflict when we were working on the soundtrack.
How was it working on a classical-based album after the techno songs you've composed in the last couple of years?
Such music will only work with a Sooraj Barjatya-Salman Khan combination. Jumme ki raat is a track that only Salman bhai can pull off. Yes, this album was another experience altogether after the techno songs I've done. Raga-based melodies and great lyrics... it's a rare combination these days.
What was Sooraj's brief?
He never briefed us. He just took us through the script, every artiste's expressions, and the emotions that had to come out in every single song. He was very sure about what he wanted -- pure and soulful music. So, I went back to my roots. Music like this doesn't have boundaries, it appeals to everyone.
What if the music hadn't worked?
If it hadn't worked, people would have doubted my capabilities.
Thumbnail image source: bolegaindia & Manav Manglani