Like it’s the case with most Sanjay Leela Bhansali movies, a lot of attention was paid to the recently-released Mangesh Hadawale-directorial Malaal’s music. The soundtrack of the Meezaan and Sharmin Segal-starrer had two tracks by singer and composer Shreyas Puranik — Aila Re and Naad Khula. Excerpts from a chat with him...  

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How did music happen to you?

In my family, everyone listens to good music, though no one has a career in it. My dad is a singer, albeit not professionally. At the age of three, I started singing and my first stage performance was at the age of five.

How was the experience of working with SLB again after Bajirao Mastani and Padmaavat?

I’m thankful for getting the opportunity to work on Naad Khula in Malaal. It was a privilege to assist sir earlier as well. His knowledge of every culture is fantastic and there is a lot of reworking and experimenting when working with him, which helps to maintain the standard and polish the craft. The best part is that he captures the essence of the film. With every project, he makes sure to maintain its era and soul.

Do you think that you have an edge over your competitors as you are a singer as well as a composer?

There is a plus point. If the composer is singing his own song, then there is more connect than with another singer. But, there is no question of competition as there are many better vocalists out there, who are giving their best. The only thing that the crooner should focus on is sticking to what the composer is saying.

A still from Malaal

Who are the singers you look up to and music directors would you like to sing for?

I have learnt from Suresh Wadkarji. He is one of my idols. I really love Arijit Singh. As for composers, I look up to Shankar Mahadevan, Pritam, Amit Trivedi and Vishal-Shekhar.

What genre excites you the most?

I lean more towards Bollywood music, especially romantic songs.

Any actor you would like to do playback for?

I want to sing for Ranveer Singh because I composed one song for him in Bajirao Mastani.

Do you see Malaal as the turning point of your career?

I had never rapped earlier in my life. And Malaal gave me the opportunity to rap, sing as well as compose. I have been getting a lot of appreciation from my family and friends — anyone who has heard the song. It is gradually picking up, but I hope it does make a mark.

What are your upcoming projects?

I am working on independent music and singles, which I am singing and composing. Some of these are for fresh talent. I have just released a version of Naam Ada Likhna from the film Yahan (2005). 

I have recreated the music in an upbeat and peppy way and also sung the song. The lyrics are written by Gulzar saab. There are some film projects in the pipeline as well.