‘Arijit Singh and Jubin Nautiyal were the original choice not Sonu Nigam’ for Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain movie song Manjogi, says Vishal Shelke – Exclusive

Vishal Shekle exclusive interview

• Vishal Shelke picked Sonu Nigam for Manjogi, lauding his dedication and versatility.
• Shelke: Arijit Singh to focus on independent music, filmmaking, not playback
• Indian cinema's music creators still struggle for recognition despite key role

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Music composer Vishal Shelke, who has created the soundtrack for Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain – Fun on the Run, spoke candidly about his journey with the film, his long-awaited collaboration with Sonu Nigam, and the often-unspoken realities of the Indian music industry.

In an exclusive conversation with Moneycontrol, Vishal Shelke reflects on the emotional and creative challenges behind composing Manjogi, opens up about Arijit Singh’s widely discussed decision to step away from playback singing, and shares his thoughts on why music creators still struggle for recognition despite music being the heartbeat of cinema.

Excerpts from the Interview: 

Q: Congratulations on working with Sonu Nigam. While making this song, did you consider any other singer apart from him?

Vishal: Not me exactly, but the producers, keeping the current trend in mind, were suggesting Arijit Singh and Jubin Nautiyal. Both of them were suggested for the song. We sent it to Arijit Singh as well as Jubin Nautiyal. Arijit loved the song and wanted to do it, but it was taking a little longer.

I was quite adamant about having Sonu Nigam because somewhere I felt this song truly belonged to him. It was going to be picturised on Ravi Kishan, who plays a character that falls madly in love with Anguri. I felt Sonu Nigam’s voice suited that innocence perfectly.

I played the song to Sonu Nigam and he instantly liked it. He said, “Let’s do it.” He was busy with Border at the time, but he still took time out and we recorded the song.

Q: How was the experience of recording with Sonu Nigam? Did you get what you wanted in the first take?

Vishal: Sonu Nigam is a legend. He has been singing for over 30 years and has given us so much music. Working with him is an experience in itself — it was magical.

We recorded at Yash Raj Studios. He flew straight from a concert in Jaipur, came to Yash Raj, recorded the song, and the very next day he left for a show in Kolkata. That shows his dedication.

He had already heard the song and knew the melody. During recording, he experimented a lot — changing tones, moving between Western and Indian styles. I told him the exact feel I was looking for, and once that clicked, it was magical. Everyone at Zee Studios and the producers were spellbound.

Q: After Arijit Singh announced his retirement from playback singing, many singers have spoken about exploitation in the music industry. What is your take on that?

Vishal: This is a tricky question, but I’ll answer honestly. First, about Arijit Singh — he hasn’t quit music. He has only decided to stop singing playback. I spoke to him personally after his decision.

He will continue doing independent music, he has his own channel, and he will keep doing concerts. He also has a strong passion for filmmaking and wants to focus on creating his own films. That is the main reason behind his decision.

As far as exploitation goes, music plays the most important role in a film. Many films work because of their music — like Aashiqui or Chak De India. People may forget the film, but they remember the songs.

Unfortunately, music directors and lyricists don’t get enough recognition. Most people know the heroes, and maybe a few singers like Arijit Singh, Sonu Nigam or Jubin Nautiyal, but hardly anyone knows the music directors or lyricists. That situation needs to change.

Q: Was “Manjogi” the most challenging song to compose for the film?

Vishal: Yes, Manjogi itself was the most challenging. The film originally was only comedy, but Ravi Kishan’s character falling in love with Anguri adds a romantic depth. We needed one song that could bind the entire film emotionally.

Ravi Kishan plays a don who is tough on the outside but very soft at heart. He has never experienced love before and falls for Anguri’s innocence. Their love is very pure, and I wanted the song to reflect that innocence.

Q: Did you compose the music keeping Ravi Kishan and Anguri’s characters in mind?

Vishal: Absolutely. Interestingly, the film was initially scored by another music director, but the director and Zee Studios were not satisfied. They approached me after seeing my work in Masti and Jhup Jhup Ji.

I gave a completely fresh approach. Ravi Kishan’s character carries a gun, is feared, but emotionally vulnerable. His love for Anguri is innocent, and that innocence had to come through the music.

Also Read: Exclusive - 'Arijit Singh is focusing on filmmaking and continue doing concerts', says music composer of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain movie Vishal Shelke

Q: What upcoming projects are you excited about next?

Vishal: Most of my work has been in the romantic comedy space. Now, I’ve completed work on a thriller film with a major Bollywood hero and a South actress — I can’t reveal details yet. Promotions should start soon.

I’ve also just begun working on a horror film, something on the lines of Annabelle. I’m really excited to explore these new genres.