Exclusive: Lyricist Manoj Muntashir on National Film Award win, AR Rahman’s prediction, and redemption after Adipurush

Exclusive: Manoj Muntashir’s National Film Award and Redemption Journey

A National Film Award Moment

Bharatmorningnews.com – In an exclusive interview, lyricist Manoj Muntashir described his recent National Film Award win as a “divine and exhilarating” milestone. The accolade, awarded for his work on the song “Jaate Hai Hum Jaane Do” from Ajay Devgn’s 2024 film Maidaan, marks his second triumph at the 72nd National Film Awards. Reflecting on the honor, Muntashir emphasized the emotional weight of the moment, saying, “This exclusive recognition feels like a long-awaited validation of my craft.”

The award, which honors excellence in Indian cinema, underscores Muntashir’s growing influence in the industry. His previous win for Saina in 2022 had already cemented his reputation, but the Maidaan success brings a new level of prestige. “It’s an exclusive honor to see my work resonate with audiences and critics alike,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of the award in shaping his career trajectory.

AR Rahman’s Pivotal Role

Manoj Muntashir shared an exclusive insight into the creative process behind “Jaate Hai Hum Jaane Do,” revealing that AR Rahman had already foreseen its potential. “Rehman sir is a night person, and I am a day person. We recorded in Chennai, and Boney Kapoor, the producer, pushed us to finish the track quickly,” he explained. “On Amit Sharma’s direction and Rehman saheb’s melody, I wrote the song in an hour while sitting on his swing. His first reaction was: ‘Manoj, this is a National Award.’”

“Rahman sir’s confidence in the song’s potential was unwavering. He believed in its message and emotional depth, which I think is why it struck a chord with people,” Muntashir added, underscoring the synergy between Rahman’s music and his own lyrics. “It’s an exclusive moment to be part of such a legendary collaboration.”

The composer’s foresight not only influenced the song’s creation but also shaped its reception. “His ability to predict the song’s success was almost magical. It’s exclusive to Rahman’s intuition, but it also reflects how music and lyrics can align perfectly to elevate a film’s narrative,” Muntashir noted. This partnership, he said, exemplifies the power of trust and creative alignment in cinematic storytelling.

Redemption After Adipurush Controversy

Muntashir’s journey to this exclusive achievement has been marked by a notable redemption arc, particularly following the 2023 film Adipurush. “Three years ago, the controversy around Adipurush cast a shadow over my work. People said ‘jub duniye ke sare pathar meri talash mein theey,’ but time has given me a chance to rebuild,” he reflected. “Acknowledging mistakes and seeking forgiveness allows the audience and nation to give a second chance. This award is my exclusive proof of resilience.”

The Adipurush debacle, which sparked debates about the film’s quality and the lyricist’s contribution, was a turning point. “It taught me humility and the importance of persistence. I realized that even in the face of criticism, there’s always room for growth,” Muntashir said. His ability to bounce back and deliver a critically acclaimed song for Maidaan has not only restored his credibility but also opened new doors in his career.

Lyricist’s Creative Vision

When asked about the song’s emotional resonance, Muntashir explained, “The lyrics capture the story of an Indian coach, Syed Abdul Rahim, portrayed by Ajay Devgn, battling cancer while striving to elevate the country’s football legacy. The lines ‘Pehchanegi duniya humko aise din bhi aayenge, mehkenge hum khushboo banke nayi hawayein aane do… Maidaano mein dhoop na kam ho jaate hai hum jaane do’ reflect his unwavering determination and the broader theme of perseverance.”

This exclusive insight into the song’s meaning reveals how Muntashir’s work transcends mere words, becoming a narrative tool that encapsulates the film’s essence. “I wanted the lyrics to mirror the coach’s journey—every challenge met with courage, every triumph celebrated with hope,” he elaborated. “It’s exclusive to the emotional depth that connects the audience to the character’s struggle.”

Industry Recognition and Future Aspirations

Manoj Muntashir’s achievements extend beyond the National Film Awards. He now holds the Sahitya Academy Award for literature, a testament to his versatility as a writer. “After four years, a Hindi song finally earned a National Award. It’s a rare exclusive honor, especially since the last one was also mine,” he said, expressing gratitude for the industry’s acknowledgment. This dual recognition—both in music and literature—highlights his unique ability to blend poetic expression with cinematic storytelling.

Looking ahead, Muntashir expressed his commitment to pushing creative boundaries. “This exclusive win is just the beginning. I aim to explore new themes and collaborate with artists who share my vision of impactful storytelling. The journey is never easy, but every step forward feels justified when the work resonates with people.”

A Reflection on the Path Forward

As the conversation progressed, Muntashir shared his thoughts on the evolving landscape of Indian cinema. “The industry is dynamic, and artists must adapt while staying true to their roots. This exclusive award is a reminder that hard work and authenticity can lead to unexpected recognition.” He also spoke about the importance of mentorship, crediting Rahman and other industry veterans for their guidance. “Their exclusive wisdom has been instrumental in shaping my craft and helping me navigate challenges.”

Finally, Muntashir concluded by emphasizing the role of the audience in an artist’s success. “Every exclusive moment we experience is shared with the viewers who connect with our work. This award isn’t just about personal achievement—it’s a celebration of collective effort and shared passion.” His words underscore the collaborative spirit that defines the Indian film industry and the enduring power of art to inspire and heal.