Yograj Bhatt On Reuniting With Yash For ‘Toxic’: ‘He Has Evolved Into A Pundit Of Commercial Cinema’ (EXCLUSIVE)

Yograj Bhatt has penned the Kannada version of “Tabaahi,” the popular track from “Toxic: A Fairytale for Grown-ups.” One of Kannada cinema’s most prolific directors, screenwriters and lyricists, Bhatt has earned praise for his lyrics for the song. On the work front, he is set to direct three films this year in Hindi, Tamil and Kannada, and will also act in a Kannada film. In an exclusive chat with Variety India, Bhatt talks about his long-standing association with Yash and his search for contentment through creativity. 

‘Tabaahi’ from ‘Toxic’ has become widely popular. When you translate a song, how challenging is it to retain the tone and meaning?

I admit that I am not good at translation. It is always a little uneasy for any writer to translate something that already exists. You may translate a word, but you may end up spoiling its real essence, as that varies in every language. For this particular reason, Yash, director Geetu Mohandas and composer Vishal Mishra let me scribble it in my own style. I retained the word ‘Tabaahi’ as it was essential and rewrote the song in my own style. I am thankful to them for letting me follow my own flair. It was a great joy working with all the legendary lyricists from different states.

Related Stories

‘Toxic’: Yash Urges Kiara Advani to ‘Do Whatever’ After The Brutal Trolling Of The Actress For ‘Tabaahi’

‘Tabaahi’ was sung by composer Vishal Mishra. Was he able to convey your vision in his rendition?

Vishal is one singer who knows how to stand on top of a sur (note) and bounce the words straight into the listener’s ears and heart. The Kannada audience and I are extremely happy with his voice.

What was your experience of working with Yash, who is also a co-producer of this film?

Yash, as an actor, producer and co-writer, has done a fantastic job, and his journey towards success is incomparable. Yash, already a phenomenon in his own right, will now be counted among the defining mass stars of the present generation.

You had directed him and also wrote the lyrics for “Drama” (2012). What kind of transformation have you seen in Yash over the years?

He has unlimited passion for acting. He has a tremendous sense of the audience’s mentality. My film with him, “Drama,” was a very small stepping stone in his career path. His heart has always sung the song of passion at its highest pitch. From “Drama” to “Toxic,” Yash has evolved into a true pundit of commercial cinema.

You are directing a Tamil and a Kannada movie this year. Can you share more details on these films?

Right now, I am working on a major Hindi film. Next are a Tamil and a Kannada film. I will share details about these films soon.

You are also acting and writing lyrics for “Secondhand Kanasugalu.” Since you have done your fair share of acting, what draws you to a role?

Acting is not an easy craft. I discover something new about it every day, and I’m learning to invest more time and myself into preparation. Hence, the film has been postponed for some time now.

What do you enjoy most: acting, directing or writing?

Creating something entertaining almost every single day has become my way of life. It’s difficult for me to find time to simply sit back and enjoy something. I always want to be busy creating something that entertains the audience. That’s what drives me. That’s all that matters to me.