Kalki 2898 AD: Siddharth-Garima on writing for Big B

Writer

Garima

of

Siddharth Garima

fame, recently spoke to ETimes on the two songs they have worked on, that are part of Kalki 2898, including one sung by

Amitabh Bachchan

himself! Talking about it, Garima said, “Nag Ashwin approached us some time in November, and of course the song takes a while to form. Though the duration of the song is short, but it has been one of the most difficult briefs – we enjoyed working on it, but at the same time it was very challenging.”

She further adds, “Nag Ashwin is kind of director who dwells on things in detail, and then he wants something in a certain way.

Also, language can sometimes be a barrier, as there is a certain meaning in Telugu, but Hindi may give a different interpretation. Obviously, you are not translating it, but creating it from scratch, and for both of us (Siddharth and I), it was important that all of us were on the same page. It was a lovely exercise.”
Garima further said, “We were not there at the recording, but were part of it over a phone call. We were constantly in touch with the music director while the singer was singing it, to get the diction and the pronunciation right.”

Talking about Amitabh Bachchan, Garima said, “Bachchan sir’s background stems from poetry. His father Harivansh Rai Bachchan has been an idol, and most revered figure. Hence, Mr Bachchan knew how to honour someone else’s poetry, and we would say he has done full justice to it.”

She however lamented that they did not get a chance to interact with Mr Bachchan. She said, ” I didn’t get a chance to interact with Mr Bachchan, though it was a dream come true to have him sing our song. He plays the legendary character of

Ashwatthama

and we were so glad that he sings our words right at the beginning of the film, beckoning the avatar to come finally. Every writer/ lyricist / director wishes to work with a living legend like him, we are waiting for an opportunity. Like they say the stars have to align.’’

Talking more on director Nag Ashwin, Garima said, “Nag Ashwin comes with a very original and different voice in cinema. We are truly thankful to him for having given us this chance to write in his film.’’ She adds, “the second song in the film is when Deepika comes to Shambhala town, which is a song of hope. ’’