Javed Akhtar Reflects on His Song's Journey to Space
A Song's Cosmic Journey
Javed Saab, your song 'Yun Hi Chala Chal Rahi' has reached space?
What can I say? I am truly touched. I still recall the recording featuring Udit Narayan and Kailash Kher. The public's response back then was overwhelmingly positive, with lines like koi Ganga nahaye barson mein resonating deeply with listeners.
Your nationalistic songs carry a profound essence, devoid of excessive flag-waving or hysteria?
Indeed, a part of me is deeply committed to nationalism. As a child, I remember our family hoisting the tricolor on August 15 and January 26. I was just six years old, and I can vividly picture how the adults would raise it and then carefully take it down in the evening, storing it safely on the top shelf of our cupboard in Lucknow. During the hot summer days, we would close all the doors, relying on air coolers instead of air conditioning. The room would be filled with water, and as the fan circulated the air, it would cool the space, allowing us to sleep. However, we children would sneak out around 4 PM, unable to sleep during the day. One day…
Go on, Javed Saab?
I recall one day when I ventured into the room where the tricolor was kept. I pulled a table over, climbed on it, and stood on my toes to touch the flag while everyone else was asleep. This sense of nationalism isn't instilled through lectures; it arises organically.
Javed Saab, when you learn that something as significant as this occurs in the sky and someone is listening to your song up there, doesn't it fill you with pride and satisfaction?
Absolutely! However, more importantly, what you have accomplished and what belongs to your past is just that—past. Previous achievements won't foster growth. Your creations, much like your children, grow into their own identities. While they originated from you, they flourish not solely due to your efforts but because millions have embraced them. This success is a collective achievement, not solely mine. How can I claim it entirely?
The iconic status of a piece is not solely attributed to its creator; it stems from the audience's appreciation, emotions, and experiences. When it resonates with nostalgia, it becomes monumental. The connection lies between the artist and the audience.