‘Mirzapur The Movie’: ‘Sanson Ki Mala’ Music Producer Vaibhav Pani Shares Why He’s Game To Give A Spin To Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s Songs (EXCLUSIVE)

Viewers who have watched “Mirzapur: The Movie” cannot stop talking about the climax where Birju Lohar (Mohit Malik) dies with “Sanson Ki Mala” playing in the background. Madhur Sharma has sung the number, which is produced by Vaibhav Pani, who is also on the guitar. In a chat with Variety India, Pani says, “This love means so much. It is an iconic song and this version being accepted by people with open arms feels like a dream come true.” 

Sharing his views on why spiritual songs like “Sanson Ki Mala,” “Chadariya Jhini Re Jhini,” or “Chaap Tilak” lend themselves so beautifully to onscreen love stories, Pani states, “I think the best part about making music in India is that musicians are also storytellers at the end of the day. The song has an emotion everyone can relate to. I would give credit to the creators who thought of using it in the context of ‘Mirzapur: The Movie.’ I feel it’s the magic of everything coming together. I feel Indian cinema offers a unique opportunity to a composer to make such creations that layer a story in this manner." 

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Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s songs have been a favorite with Hindi filmmakers for decades. Is there a song of the legend that Pani would like to remain untouched? “My relationship with Nusrat Saab’s music began when I heard “Tere Bin Nahin Lagda” from Bend It Like Beckham (2002). I don’t think there is any song that I would refrain from touching. I will be very honest with you because I feel I have grown up on his music. I feel like if I ever get the opportunity to give his songs my own twist I will never say no to it because he is just too close to my heart. Of course, I was quite nervous while doing ‘Sanson Ki Mala,’ as it is an iconic song. But on the other side of the fear, is the fun of working on a song, which is an emotion for many people across the world. So, I don’t think I will say no to any of his songs.”  

Responding to Diljit Dosanjh singing the song at his concerts, Pani says humbly, “Diljit is one of the greatest artists of this generation. It feels great to see everyone celebrate Nusrat Saab. It is a testament to the legacy he has created and I feel generations will pass but his music will continue to be an emotion.”