Irshad Kamil Celebrates Five Nominations at SWA Awards

Lyricist Irshad Kamil has garnered significant acclaim with five nominations at the upcoming Screenwriters Association (SWA) Awards. His contributions to the hit songs from the film Saiyaara and the acclaimed musical biopic Amar Singh Chamkila have distinguished him in the competitive music landscape. This recognition marks a high point in Kamil’s career, as he reflects on his artistic journey.

Kamil’s nominations include five of the six tracks from Imtiaz Ali‘s Saiyaara, showcasing his prowess in crafting memorable lyrics. The nominated songs—Baaja, Vida Karo, Naram Kaalja, Bol Mohabbat, and Ishq Mitaye—have resonated with audiences, further solidifying his status within the industry. Kamil expressed his joy, stating, “These days, it feels like I am in heaven.” He humorously noted the absence of a nomination for the sixth track, insisting, “I did not write a bad sixth song. That was also good.”

A notable aspect of the nominations is the recognition of Sagar for the song Tu Hai Toh from the film Mr and Mrs Mahi, featuring actors Rajkummar Rao and Janhvi Kapoor. Kamil emphasized that his nominations reflect appreciation rather than dominance, stating, “Appreciation is the real inspiration for a creative mind. I am humbled by these multiple nominations.”

The SWA Awards ceremony is scheduled for August 9, 2023, providing Kamil an opportunity to celebrate his collaborative efforts with Ali and composer AR Rahman. This trio has previously worked together on celebrated soundtracks for films like Tamasha (2015), Highway (2014), and Rockstar (2011), all of which have left a lasting impact on Indian cinema.

When asked about the secret to their successful collaboration, Kamil highlighted the importance of mutual trust and understanding. “It’s faith. The faith we have in each other. We are so confident about the calibre, creativity, and understanding of each one of us. How can I doubt AR Rahman about any piece of music? He is the master,” he explained. Kamil believes this faith is essential for creativity, which has become a defining edge in their projects.

Kamil also shared insights about his recent partnership with director Mohit Suri for Saiyaara. The film features newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, and Kamil has contributed not only to the title track but also to the female version and another love ballad, Humsafar. Kamil praised Suri’s talent for integrating music into his films, noting, “He is one of the few directors in this industry who really justifies music in his films.”

Reflecting on his collaboration with Suri, Kamil remarked on the director’s meticulous approach to music direction. “Every day at eight in the morning, he will call and give you feedback on the songs. It’s as if he thought about it the whole night,” Kamil shared. This dedication enhances the creative process and results in a harmonious final product.

As Saiyaara continues to gain popularity, Kamil expressed excitement over the film’s success. He emphasized a crucial aspect of storytelling, stating, “The best thing about this film is that it has proved that if the character lip syncs, he will connect more with the audience.” This insight highlights the importance of authenticity in film, resonating with both the audience and industry professionals.

Irshad Kamil’s remarkable achievements at the SWA Awards not only celebrate his talent but also reflect the collaborative spirit that drives creativity in the film industry. As the awards ceremony approaches, Kamil’s nominations serve as a testament to his enduring impact on contemporary music and storytelling.