POETIC JUSTICE

Lyricist RAJ SHEKHAR came under the glare of limelight thanks to his collaboration on Animal. DEVESH SHARMA talks to the reticent wordsmith

- DEVESH SHARMA

In the pulsating heart of Bollywood, where dreams are spun into tales of love, loss and redemption, one name has been quietly but steadily etching its mark into the annals of Indian cinema - Raj Shekhar. With an illustrious career spanning over a decade, Shekhar's lyrical prowess has not only captivated listeners but has also earned him a certain respect among the music composers. From humble beginnings to becoming the wordsmith behind some memorable melodies, Shekhar's journey is as inspiring as the meaningful songs he pens. Raised in a family of farmers, Shekhar's upbringing instilled in him a deep connection with his roots, a theme that often finds resonance in his lyrics. "It's the experiences of my childhood, the sights, the sounds and the smells of the countryside that often inspire my lyrics," Shekhar reminisces, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "Growing up amidst the lush green fields of Madhepur, I learned to appreciate the beauty of simplicity and the richness of emotions that define the human experience." In the bustling corridors of Bollywood, where commercial considerations often dictate artistic choices, Shekhar remains steadfast in his pursuit of authenticity. He's a Hindi literature student who sometimes finds himself at crossroads when it comes to composing lyrics for Hindi films, as most filmmakers these days want to cater to the lowest common denomination. "Agyeya, Pant, Nirala, Renu are my idols. But in Mumbai, who has the bent of mind to talk about literature," he laments. "People ask you to listen to a popular song and tell you to replicate it. This state of affairs is disheartening indeed."