Bollywood, where storytelling thrives on the lyrical prowess of writers, has witnessed the rise of Kausar Munir as one of its standout lyricists. Known for her heartfelt narratives woven through music, Munir is best recognized for her song 'Lehra Do' from the film 83, which has transcended the silver screen to become an unofficial anthem for the Indian cricket team. This anthem resonates with the spirit of the nation, making it not just art but also part of the cultural fabric.
Recently, Munir opened up about her creative process and the delicate balance she navigates between artistic expression and the inevitable pressures of commercial success. "Item songs will be made. Courtesans won’t sing Bhajans. A bar dancer will always present an item number," she remarked, underscoring the complexity of the industry she thrives within. "But the calibre of writing is important," Munir added, highlighting her commitment to quality regardless of the type of song.
Reflecting on her hit song, she stated, "I am grateful it has become an anthem of sorts. We are making songs with our efforts and honesty." The success of 'Lehra Do' is no small feat; it mirrors the passion and pride of Indian cricket fans, encapsulating the emotions tied to the sport.
Understanding the creative depths of 'Lehra Do' requires insight. Munir explained, "I wrote this song after watching the edit. The emotion expressed came after watching the scene over and over again where the Indian cricket team loses a match." Her description of the writing process reveals how much effort goes behind crafting something truly meaningful.
Working with renowned director Kabir Khan has defined much of Munir's career. She claims her writing is for the director's vision, stating, "I keep on saying I’m not writing as a poet or for a wider audience. I write songs only for one person - the director." This statement reflects her deep respect for the role of the director and the collaborative spirit within the film industry.
Munir and Khan have collaborated on multiple films including Ek Tha Tiger, Bajrangi Bhaijaan, Phantom, Tubelight, and others, creating some memorable songs and dialogues. Her approach is unique; she prioritizes the narrative's needs over commercial trends—which often sway lyricists to produce more marketable content. This integrity has earned her accolades and respect among her peers.
While her career has seen incredible highs, the pressures to conform to commercial expectations are ever-present within Bollywood. The lyricist acknowledges this, stating, "There is no succumbing to anything. We are in the service of the script." This level of dedication shows through her work, as she continues to produce lyrics imbued with genuine emotion and artistry.
When asked about the future, Munir expressed hope and determination. "I have just written another item song which is all about 'tamashe wali' singing 'Ha bhi meri, na bhi meri... Mai apni marzi ki malik,'" she described, showing her ability to remain versatile even within genres often criticized for superficiality. This adaptability speaks to her skills and willingness to tackle diverse topics, showcasing her range as both lyricist and writer.
Encouragingly, her narrative aligns with changing perceptions of music within Bollywood, where lyrics are beginning to gain more recognition as valuable storytelling tools. The melody of good writing can catch fire, and Munir has proven this with her work.
Reflecting on her experiences, she mused about artistic satisfaction: "We don’t anticipate love and success, and we don’t anticipate the gaalis (abuses) also. We are making songs with our efforts and honesty." This humble perspective solidifies her place not just as a writer but as someone who contributes to larger conversations about art and culture.
With projects continuing to develop and new collaborations on her horizon, Kausar Munir's unwavering commitment to quality songwriting remains at the forefront of her career. Whether addressing commercial pressures or artistic integrity, Munir embodies the very spirit of Bollywood's enchanting narrative—a beautifully complex interplay of ambition, loyalty, skill, and reverence for the craft she holds dear.
Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and dedication to the art of storytelling through song, ensuring she will continue to be an influential voice as Bollywood evolves.