I have not written a single original song, says lyricist Manoj Muntashir
At Sahitya Aaj Tak 2025, Manoj Muntashir talks about his journey and the myth of originality. His ideas highlighted the importance of inspiration and learning in creative writing.
Lyricist and writer Manoj Muntashir Shukla spoke to a packed audience on the second day of Sahitya Aaj Tak 2025 held at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium, New Delhi. Muntashir brought both humor and introspection to the stage, reflecting on his struggles, inspirations, failures and the art of writing. He also declared that originalism is a myth. Journalist Shweta Singh conducted the session.
Describing his early days in Mumbai, Muntashir said, “I used to literally struggle in the rain wearing torn shoes. Once I got scolded in a production house. Today the same producer is my friend and we have done many films together.”
Talking about his journey, the lyricist recalled the release of his debut film in 2005 after six years of struggle. Despite his enthusiasm, no one came to the screening except him, his wife and a friend.
Years later, when ‘Baahubali’ was released, he could not get a ticket again – this time because the entire nation wanted to know why Kattappa killed Baahubali.
In one of the most talked-about moments of the session, Muntashir declared that originality is a myth. He said, “If any writer tells you they are completely original, they are lying.”
“After writing almost 800 songs and 100 films, I can say that I have not written even a single original song. If poet Momin (Momin Khan Momin) had not written ‘Tum Mere Paas Hote Ho Goya’, I would never have been able to write ‘Tu Meri Niendo Mein Sota Hai’. If Firaq Gorakhpuri had not written what he wrote, I would not have written ‘Tere Sang Yaara’. If Tulsidas had not written ‘Jab Aavai’ Santosh ‘Dhan’, I would not have written ‘O Desh Mere’. We all learn from those before us – being inspired is not a fault.
Speaking about his devotional and patriotic songs, he said, “If one is not devoted to Ram, they are not devoted to anything. Ayodhya is witnessing the celebration of a century today.”
Addressing the criticism regarding ‘Adipurush’, he said, “I made a mistake in that film. These people are forgiving. I will never repeat that mistake.”
He also revealed the upcoming projects which are ‘Border 2’, ‘The Kerala Story 2’ and a new project titled ‘Krishna’, the shooting of which is expected to start early next year.