I don't believe Bollywood music's golden era is over: Shekhar Ravjiani

Music, for me, is about freedom and expression. It’s a way to cut through challenges, to meditate, to emote. I’ve been fortunate to listen to diverse musical styles from across India and the world,” says singer and music director Shekhar Ravjiani, who is part of the popular Bollywood composer duo Vishal-Shekar and is known for hit songs like Chammak Challo, Ishq Wala Love, Meherbaan, among others.
The composer, who was in Chennai recently, shares his fond memories of the city, his perspective on the divide between the north and south music, his favourite South Indian musicians, and more...
The popular notion these days seems to be that Bollywood music’s golden era is over. What’s your take on this?
I don’t believe Bollywood music’s golden era is over. Our films and music are still celebrated globally. Look at Chhaava — it has broken all box office records. If a film is honest and well-made, it will always be successful, and the same applies to music. If music is truthful and heartfelt, the audience will always connect with it.
Why do composers from the north find it difficult to break into south Indian films?
I don’t see music as north vs south or east vs west. Music transcends all boundaries. If you go to dance classes in Mumbai, Tamil songs are hugely popular. People don’t think of them as ‘South songs’ — they just enjoy the music. Similarly, audiences in the south have showered love on my songs like Chammak Challo and Om Shanti Om.
Do you think the role of music directors will change with the rise of AI-generated music?
AI can make things more convenient and speed up certain processes, but it can never replace human emotions. AI doesn’t have a heartbeat, it doesn’t feel pain, and it doesn’t fall in love — so how can it write a song? I might use AI for research or administrative tasks, but never for creativity. That’s where human beings excel.
How do you approach composing a song? What’s your creative process?
For film music, I start with the director’s vision — understanding the character, their emotions, and the scene where the song fits. Once I have that clarity, I build the melody, rhythm, and ragas accordingly. For independent music, the process is entirely different. Here, I am my own director. I decide the theme, the emotions, and the lyrics. It’s a personal expression — there is no screenplay, no restrictions, just pure creativity. I love learning, experimenting, and collaborating with different musicians.
As someone who has been to Chennai several times, what are your fond memories of the city?
I have been coming to Chennai since Om Shanti Om (2007) for string recordings and arrangements. Many songs for Chennai Express (2013) and Home Delivery (2005) were produced here, too. One of the highlights of my career was recording at SP Balasubrahmanyam sir’s studio. That moment felt like a milestone in my life — like I had achieved something in life. Chennai’s musicians, people, and food are truly special. On every visit, I look forward to stopping by this popular hotel chain just to have podi idli!