I spent all my time at NSD discussing theatre, actors, and cinema: Swanand Kirkire

As the National School of Drama’s Repertory Company marks its 60th anniversary, acclaimed film lyricist Swanand Kirkire reflects on how the institution broadened his artistic vision.

Speaking to Patriot during his visit to the capital for the inaugural event of a theatre festival on August 23, Kirkire, who graduated from NSD in 1996, shared his thoughts on the lasting impact of the NSD.

“We were introduced to various forms of art, including classical Indian, Greek, Modern, Western, and English drama. The institute truly opened my eyes,” Swanand Kirkire recalls with a wistful smile.

“The curriculum at NSD has been designed so beautifully that it teaches you how to see and understand things. The first lesson taught at the institute is about discovering yourself. Our classes used to begin with reading autobiographies to gain self-awareness,” the 52-year-old songwriter continues.

“Our then director, Ram Gopal Bajaj, asked me to direct a play, and I was part of the design and direction team. I wrote and directed a play based on documents about Bhagat Singh,” said Kirkire.

Reflecting on the challenges he faced during his time at NSD, Kirkire noted, “Since we were studying at a government institute on a scholarship, there wasn’t much struggle concerning money and food. The real challenge was to produce the best work.”

“We did not have much time to go out. My days and nights at NSD were spent discussing theatre, actors, and cinema.”

Kirkire also highlighted the need to develop the theatre culture in the national capital.

“We need to work on attracting audiences to watch plays. Theatres should be developed in a way that makes them as appealing to the public as films.”

Talking about experiencing Delhi as a student at NSD, he said, “I love Delhi food, like Matar Kulche and Chole Kulche from the streets. I often visit Karim and Al Jawahar restaurants in Old Delhi. I also have memories of the Refugee market for inexpensive food and Majnu Ka Tilla for momos.”

From Delhi to Mumbai

Kirkire, who went to Mumbai with a dream to direct films, revealed that he drew inspiration from filmmaker Piyush Mishra.

“In theatre, you learn a lot, and I was inspired by how Piyush Mishra could write songs in minutes. This motivated me to start writing as well. My journey began with writing a few Marathi songs at NSD, which eventually led to work in the industry.”

Also Read: Veteran actors talk about evolution of NSD’s Repertory Company

“In Mumbai, I initially wanted to be a director rather than a songwriter, but things turned out differently,” said Kirkire, who has penned lyrics for films such as Parineeta, Lage Raho Munna Bhai, 3 Idiots, Paa, Vicky Donor, Fitoor, Dunki, among others.

Also Read: Veteran actors talk about evolution of NSD’s Repertory Company

Kirkire, known for his honest songwriting, said, “I do not write songs to make them hits. I focus on delivering the best work.” He has penned hit numbers such as Piyu Bole, Lutt Putt Gaya, Bhagwan Hai Kahan Re Tu, and Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh.

Evolving music scene 

Regarding the trend of recomposing original songs, he remarked, “The industry focuses on commercial success. They bring back old songs for some time with a new touch, but later the audience becomes bored. But this cycle will continue.”

On OTT music, he commented, “OTT music is not reaching audiences effectively. Makers should explore the best methods for music release on these platforms.”

Despite having won numerous awards, Swanand Kirkire believes that good songs continue to emerge in the industry. “Songs are evolving with time, and the way stories are told through music is changing,” he concluded.

Talking about filmmaking, he praised Rajkumar Hirani as a great filmmaker with whom he has collaborated on four films. “I worked with Vidhu Vinod Chopra on Parineeta, and he introduced me to Rajkumar Hirani. He is an excellent filmmaker who strives for perfection,” he said.