"I Register My Lyrics With The Screen Writer Association, Ensuring Copyright”-Raj Shekhar, Noted Bollywood Lyricist

In the realm of Bollywood music, few names resonate with the same lyrical depth and poetic finesse as Raj Shekhar.At the moment, he is in news for his work as a lyricist on the incredible soundtrack from the Superhit film Animal.

Shekhar has penned unforgettable songs for acclaimed films like 'Tanu Weds Manu Returns', 'Hichki', 'Qarib Qarib Singlle', 'Veere Di Wedding', 'Tumbbad', 'Uri: The Surgical Strike', and 'Saand Ki Aankh', and soundtrack of the Netflix original film ‘Meenakshi Sundareshwar’, produced by Karan Johar’s Dharmatic Entertainment.

In this candid chat with loudest.in,he talks about his musical journey so far.

Here are edited excerpts:

Q1.Tell us about your musical journey so far?

I made my Bollywood debut as a lyricist with the 2011 film Tanu Weds Manu I went on to write lyrics for other notable films including Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Tumbbad, Veere Di Wedding, Hichki and Uri: The Surgical Strike.I started my career as an assistant director to Aanand L. Rai.My initial compositions, "Manu Bhaiya" and "Rangrez," marked the beginning of my songwriting journey. These creations not only connected me with numerous friends but also paved the way for valuable professional relationships, all stemming from their inclusion in the film. Even today, nearly every day, I receive messages on social media discussing 'Tanu Weds Manu'. The enduring love for the album, even after a decade since its release, is a testament to our work's enduring impact. It reinforces my belief that I can maintain my artistic integrity without succumbing to compromise.

Q2.So recently you have written 3 songs for a massive hit movie animal and the songs have also done really well so tell us about how did you felt to be the part of this project?

It's an incredible feeling. My songs Pehle Abhi main and  "Papa Mere Jaan”has received immense love.it  is also garnering a lot of affection. Sandeep Reddy Vanga provided me with the context for this particular song, "Pehle Abhi main,” as it revolves around a unique love story. I diligently worked on it, and Vishal Mishra's rendition in the film is absolutely beautiful. The response has been overwhelming so far, with the songs crossing millions of views.

Q3.How do you ensure copyright protection for your lyrics? Could you walk us through the process?

I register my lyrics with the Screen Writer Association, ensuring they are timestamped with the date and time. Additionally, for royalties, I register my lyrics with the Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS), which collects royalties on our behalf from various sources. This process helps safeguard the copyright of my work.

Q4.What are the upcoming projects you are looking in 2024?

Certainly, I'm currently crafting songs for Season 3 of "Mismatched", drawing upon my experience from previous seasons. Additionally, I'm also contributing to the songwriting for Season 2 of "Haseen Dilruba", along with juggling commitments to two or three film projects.