I watched the biopic more than 50 times to create its music: Shantanu Moitra

Prominent Indian music director and composer Shantanu Moitra, who is a recipient of the Indian National Film Awards, composed the music of the Shyam Benegal directorial biopic "Mujib: The Making of a Nation".

Moitra is known for his compositions in Bollywood films like— 'PK', 'Lage Raho Munna Bhai', '3 Idiots', 'Rang De Basanti', 'Parineeta', 'Madras Cafe', and Bengali films like 'Antaheen' and 'Projapoti'.

The esteemed musician has come to Bangladesh to attend the premiere of 'Mujib', marking his first visit to the country. In an interview with The Daily Star, he talked about the music of the film and shared insights about his experiences, as well as his thoughts on Bangladesh, during his visit.

This is your first visit to Bangladesh. What was the first thing that caught your attention when you arrived at the airport?

Upon my arrival, I saw posters of 'Mujib' stamped all over the walls around. It felt like a festival in the surrounding. It's an extraordinary film about an exceptional personality, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. I could feel that people have liked the song 'Ochin Majhi' from the movie.

Shantanu Moitra at the premiere show of "Mujib: The Making of a Nation".

Is there anything in particular that you have liked during your first visit to Bangladesh?

The smile on people's faces. Amidst so much traffic and congestion, people are still full of life, which I really like about them.

You've worked as a music director in many big Bollywood movies. While working on the film 'Mujib', did you notice any significant differences or challenges?

I always strive to be involved in good projects. I'm delighted to work with any film that has a strong script and plot. 'Mujib' is no exception, and it's a heartwarming tale of a father-children relationship. It's a story of a family, a beloved politician with a bold personality, who loved his people. This film will always have a special place in my heart.

While working on the project, did you feel any pressure or the need for specific responsibilities given the importance of the film's subject?

Definitely! Shyam Benegal told me, 'Forget all the pressure. This is the story of a simple man's love for his country and his people. Imagine it that way.' He has been very supportive in easing my anxieties. Then, I started thinking about real folk songs in Bangladesh because I wanted to capture the essence of true folk music. That's why you can find elements of traditional folk music in the wedding song in the film 'Ki Ki Jinish Enechho Dulal'.

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You attended the premiere of the film accompanied by the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina. How did you feel?

It was really heartwarming to witness the moment honorable Prime Minister watching her father's story with us. It's been a unique experience for me. She expressed her fondness for the songs in the movie, which is indeed very inspirational. If I wasn't there in person, I would have regretted missing such a moment!

Could you share your personal opinion about the film?

I had to watch the movie 'Mujib' more than 50 times to create the background music. Every time, I discovered something new about the film. It feels like each character in the movie has become a real person. Arifin Shuvoo has done a fantastic job portraying the character of Mujib. It's evident how much hard work he put into it. The artiste who portrayed the role of Tajuddin also seems as if he has become the real character. Every character feels so lifelike, and the acting is outstanding.

You father was Bangladeshi. Could you please tell us something about him?

My father was from Rangpur. He really wanted me to come to Bangladesh. I am connected with this place by blood.

Earlier I made plans to visit Bangladesh, however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, I couldn't make it. Unfortunately, my father passed away during that time.

It was at that time that Shyam Benegal approached me to work on the 'Mujib' biopic. Working with someone like him was like a dream come true for me. I have worked on various aspects of Bengali culture and folk themes in this film, including trying to bring out the true essence of the land.

You are a much-loved jury member of the popular singing show 'Sa Re Ga Ma Pa'. However, in the recent season you are not there. Why is that?

Hopefully we will collaborate again soon. The audience have to wait until then.

You love to travel a lot. Tell us about your observations while you travel any new place.

I have a curiosity to see life in as many new ways as I can. I could have learned by reading books, but I prefer to explore and see things in person. I've even traveled by bicycle. This dream was inspired by the famous Indian poet and lyricist Gulzar.

What advice do you have for emerging music composers?

Bangladesh has a treasure-trove of folk music. Let the newcomers draw inspiration from all of this and embark on new, innovative endeavors. The talent here is immense. There's no shortage of resources. In recent times, Coke Studio Bangla is doing really well, and it is really commendable.