Amit Trivedi: I've been suffering from depression after Bombay Velvet

Tell us about composing for Fitoor...

Director Abhishek Kapoor told me that the film is a love story based on Charles Dicken’s classic novel Great Expectations set in Kashmir. So, the songs had to be intensely romantic. The title track Yeh Fitoor Mera and Pashmina have been received well; now I hope the film works at the box-office.

Image Source: twitter/fitoor

In one of your previous interviews, you had said that before composing music for a film, you travel to the location for research. Did you travel for Fitoor?

Yes. Abhishek, Swanand (Kirkire, lyricist) and I were in Kashmir for few days. We met many local artistes to understand the folk music of Kashmir.

The past year tested you with a mega flop--- Bombay Velvet...

2015 tested me in many ways. I was suffering from depression after Bombay Velvet. In fact, I am yet to recover completely. I thought I’ll bring something new for the Indian audiences, as they are not used to jazz. But 85% people didn’t listen to the music of the film -- they went by what was shown in the promos. Those who actually heard the music really loved it; a few websites even called it the ‘Album Of The Year’.

Though Shaandaar was a flop, its music was somewhat well-received. Did that bring you some solace?

To an extent, yes. When Gulabo and Shaam Shaandar became hits, I was happy. But again, the film sank. I don’t work just to create hit music, I work for the film. So, it really upset me when the film didn’t work.

You were accused of copying Nazdeekiyan (Shaandaar).  Also, Amaal Mallik lashed out against you for calling Anu Malik and Pritam plagiarists. What's your stand on this?

First of all, I stand by my statement that I have not copied music. The day I do so, I might as well leave the industry.  It was sheer co-incidence that the opening of Nazdeekiyan sounded similar to Coldplay’s track, which I had never listened to until a journalist brought it to my notice. I would be the biggest fool to copy one of the most popular bands in the world. I don’t know why and how it happened (pauses)...

Go on...

Also, I have never said anything bad about Anu Malik and Pritam because I respect them immensely. They are among Bollywood’s most talented composers. I don’t know when and where Amaal heard it, but maine aisa statement kabhi nahi diya hai. It is against my principles and ethics to do so. In fact, I have a lot of respect for Amaal as well; he is doing really well. Whenever I meet Anuji and Pritamji, we are extremely cordial with each other.

The biggest criticism against your work is that your songs work only for a limited audience...

I believe in the saying: The size of the audience does not matter. I work very passionately. I am fine with just a limited number of people appreciating my work.