What makes this birthday special for you?
Birthdays are not just celebrations for me. They mark a new beginning in my literary journey. I aim to climb another step and achieve something fresh. Every year, I start new work on my birthday, treating it as the start of a new life.
How do you feel about the songs you wrote this year?
I’m proud of songs like Bujjithalli and Hailessa from Thandel, Nijamaa Kalaa from Lucky Bhaskar, and songs from Aay. Each of them captured deep emotions tied to the story. I thank the directors, music directors, and producers for trusting me with such important moments.
How do you adapt to changes in music and lyric trends?
Every song is a challenge. Over the last five years, sound design in lyrics has evolved. Songs must appeal instantly, yet feel timeless even after 10 years. I always try to write lyrics that stay fresh, no matter the era.
You are known for love songs. How do you keep them new?
Love is universal. Each song brings a new expression, emotion, and sensitivity. I ensure the words carry meaning without losing their emotional depth.
Do you have a favorite song from your career?
Every song I write is my favorite. A lyricist must always feel satisfied, yet keep striving for more. That hunger keeps me going.
What about the trend of instant hits on social media?
It’s like walking on a razor’s edge. Earlier, songs took time to reach people. Now, they must click instantly. At the same time, I write with the thought that even after 10 years, the song should evoke the same feelings.
Which kind of songs do you get to write most often?
After Aradugula Bullet, I received more opportunities for hero introduction songs and love songs. For Maharshi, I wrote Idhe Kada Nee Katha after listening to the entire story. Some songs come purely from the situation, others from the full script.
Which songs make you feel proud?
I can’t decide that myself. But when respected people praise my work, I feel proud. Director Sukumar appreciated Inkem Inkem Inkem Kaavaale from Geetha Govindam. Legendary Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry praised my work in Maharshi. Such moments make me feel I wrote something truly great.
Do you plan to turn director in the future?
I don’t have plans for direction. My dream is to grow as a complete writer. I want to focus on dialogues and storytelling along with lyrics. Writing is my life.
What are your upcoming projects?
I am writing songs for Dulquer Salmaan’s Aakashinlo Oka Thara, Sai Dharam Tej’s Sambarala Yetigattu, and India House, among other films.
What are your thoughts on the buzz surrounding Hari Hara Veera Mallu as the release date approaches? A.M. Rathnam: The buzz is extremely exciting! We’re working on some special plans for our fans across the Telugu states. We're planning paid premieres and, once we receive the necessary permissions, we hope to announce 9:00 PM shows on July 23rd. It's a great o
Read More →
What inspired you to write an adventurous script like Ghaati? Krish Jagarlamudi: Every film of mine feels like an adventure. With Ghaati, the idea came from Dr. Chintakinda Srinivasa Rao, a great writer whose works I admire. His story idea intrigued me, especially the concept of Ghaatils, laborers on the Andhra-Orissa border. It felt exciting and fresh, and I
Read More →
How does Metro... In Dino reflect your personal experiences? Anurag Basu: The film is deeply personal. Many moments in Metro... In Dino are taken from my life with family and friends. My wife Tani even joked that I’ve put all our moments in the film. It allowed me to improvise and reflect life as I’ve seen it.
Read More →
The Goat Life has made a global roar, breaking records across territories and countries worldwide, with critics and audiences hailing the cinematic masterpiece alike! From superstar Prithviraj Sukumaran’s ‘career-best performance’ to National Award-winning director Blessy’s ‘best-ever yet’ film, The Goat Life has been immensely applauded and has taken the theatres by storm. The greatest-ever survival adventure film has been declared a blockbuster hit with a
Read More →
How does it feel to see the overwhelming response to the song “Rai Rai Rara”? It feels amazing. The appreciation for the lyrics, especially when people say specific lines resonated with them, is truly fulfilling. Despite being a mass song, the lyrics have managed to stand out, which is a big achievement. What is the inspiration behind the song "Rai Rai Rara"? The director, Buchi Babu Sir, wanted the song to be an anthem for the youth. He emphasized that it should have a philosophical undertone,
Read More →
Shefali Jariwala’s legacy as the iconic Kaanta Laga Girl remains etched in the hearts of millions. In this exclusive interview with directors Vinay Sapru and Radhika Rao, we take a deep dive into Shefali’s career, her journey from a college student to a national sensation, and the profound impact Kaanta Laga had on Bollywood. Despite the immense success of her breakout song, Shefali remained humble and content with her journey. Directors Vinay Sapr
Read More →
How did the journey of Jatadhara begin? I always wanted to make a Telugu film because I deeply admire Telugu cinema and culture. Even though I’ve been producing Hindi films, Telugu movies have always inspired me. I watched Ram Charan’s Orange, and that sparked my passion for Telugu storytelling. Later, through Sudheer Babu, I met directors Venkat Kalyan and Abhishek Jaiswal. When they narrated the story of Jatadhara, I instantly loved it that’s how this journey started. What makes Jatadhara a un
Read More →
Prashanthi Harathi, who gained recognition by acting in key roles in super hit films like "Pellam Oorelithe" and "Indra," settled in America with her family after getting married. There, she started a Kuchipudi dance school named Omkara. There was a long hiatus in her career as an actress. In today's interview, Prashanthi Harathi said that she still has not lost her passion for acting and wants to return to Tollywood fueled by that passion. "Our family u
Read More →
Two back-to-back Pan-India hits with Hanuman and Mirai. How does it feel? It’s overwhelming. When success comes, all the hard work feels worth it. Director Karthik Ghattamaneni created an extraordinary film, which inspired me to give my best music. The entire team is thrilled with the audience response. What’s the best co
Read More →
Interviewer: You’ve been working non-stop across multiple industries. Has this pace ever taken a toll on you? Rashmika Mandanna: Absolutely! I overwork, and I’m telling you, don’t do that. It’s not sustainable. I think many of us, especially in this industry, get carried away with deadlines and expectations. But it’s so important to know your limits. Whether it’s 8, 9, or 10 hours of work, it’s enough. Beyond that, it becomes unhealthy—not just for actors but for the entire crew. Everyone deserv
Read More →
