Not Agar Tum Saath Ho, Irshad Kamilreveals they had different song for scene!

A lyrical genius’ words have shaped the soul of Indian cinema’s most unforgettable songs. A poet at heart and a storyteller in spirit, Irshad Kamil has an unparalleled ability to capture the complexities of human emotions with simplicity and elegance.
His career took off with Chameli (2003), where his evocative lyrics stood out and marked the beginning of a remarkable journey. Over the years, he has penned unforgettable songs for iconic films such as Jab We Met, Love Aaj Kal (both 2009 and 2020 versions), Rockstar, Tamasha, Raanjhanaa, Highway, Jab Harry Met Sejal and Atrangi Re. Each project has showcased his versatility, from the soul-stirring Kun Faya Kun in Rockstar to the heartbreakingly tender Agar Tum Saath Ho in Tamasha. Hits like Tum Se Hi, Matargashti, Raabta, Hawayein, Chaka Chak and Tu Chahiye highlight his ability to adapt to a wide range of genres and moods. His lyrical genius extends beyond romance, delving into themes of self-discovery, spirituality and unspoken emotions, as seen in tracks like Phir Se Ud Chala (Rockstar) and Rait Zara Si (Atrangi Re).
As The Pioneer connects with the maestro for our special segment, the lyricist behind the iconic songs reflects on the immense love and appreciation he has received for his work. “It’s a good feeling when you do something seriously, and people respond positively,” he shares with a smile. “It’s not just one or two songs that I’m proud of; I believe all three of my songs should have my lyrics. I have that much faith in them.” For Kamil, the recognition he receives is more than just validation—it serves as a constant source of motivation and inspiration to keep creating.
When it comes to his collaboration with the legendary AR Rahman, his gratitude is evident. “Working with Rahman sir is like going to music school—no, it’s more like a spiritual school. You learn so much from him, not just about music, but about life and how to approach it with a deeper sense of understanding.”
One of the most significant lessons Kamil has taken away from Rahman is how to handle both criticism and praise with grace. “Rahman sir has this incredible ability to take it all—good and bad—with composure. He has a unique, non-fear attitude. There’s always pressure to make a song a hit, but Rahman sir stays calm and focused and without that pressure, you can truly enjoy the work you’re doing.”
Irshad Kamil recalls a memorable moment working with AR Rahman on the song Tu Kya Jaane from Amar Singh Chamkila. While working late at Rahman’s studio, Kamil was about to leave when Rahman insisted they stay and continue working. Despite being exhausted, Kamil complied and within 15 minutes, a line came to him: “Tu Kya Jaane Mere Yaar, Chup Chup Takhti Hoon, Rehna Sakhti Hoon.” Rahman immediately loved it, and the song became a cherished creation. Kamil fondly remembers how Rahman’s determination and sweet insistence helped bring the song to life.
The Atrangi Re fame also fondly remembers another magical musical moment: the creation of Vidaah Karo. “I remember sitting with Imtiaz and Rahman sir, and Rahman ji was playing the piano. He suddenly said, ‘Lights kamm kar dete hai’—and as he began composing, I started writing the lyrics. Vidaah Karo came out of that magical sitting.”
For the Mausam songwriter, every song is like a child and each one must be treated with care, depending on its nature. “Every song is different. When you write an emotional song, the process is different from that of a dance number. With a dance number, we usually get the composition first, and then the lyrics follow. You look for that one line—the refrain—that becomes the song’s hook, the headline of the piece. But in emotional or romantic songs, it’s all about the feel. The thought behind the lyrics matters more than the words themselves. When I first listen to a composition, I hear it 20 to 25 times to understand the approach. It’s important to align myself with the mood of the music and understand where the song is taking me. Once the thought is clear in my mind, the words start to flow naturally. It’s a seamless process—feeling the composition and enhancing it with the words.”
Reflecting on his experience, the Raabta fame reveals a thoughtful perspective on creativity and the unpredictability of success. “I remember once reading a quote by Charles Dickens when he was asked about the message in his novel. He said, ‘Message? Why message? I’m not a postman, I’m a writer.’” Kamil chuckles before continuing, “That resonates with me a lot. When you’re working on something, you’re not thinking about whether the song will be a hit or a flop, or whether it will be a classic. You’re focused on capturing the essence of the song in the moment, within the circumstances you’ve been given. Your job is to write with honesty and integrity. That way, later, you don’t look back and think, ‘I should have made this part better.’” Speaking about his long-standing collaboration with filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, the Highway lyricist highlights the musical synergy they share. “Imtiaz is a very musical director. He tries to create magic on-screen, both visually and emotionally,” Kamil says.
Recalling the making of Tamasha’s iconic Agar Tum Saath Ho, the Kun Faya Kun lyricist reveals, “Initially, a different song was shot for that scene. But when Rahman sir and I saw the visuals, we felt something was missing in the song. The visuals were so touching, and we kept trying again and again to reach their emotional depth. It’s directors like Imtiaz, Anurag Basu, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and Anand L Rai who value music deeply and understand its importance in storytelling.”
Reflecting on some of his most cherished works, Kamil shares, “There are so many songs close to my heart. In Raanjhanaa, I love Aise Na Dekho, but I feel it didn’t reach as many people as it deserved to. Similarly, in Oo Meherama and Tanhaa Joh are personal favourites out of the many. Sometimes, despite the effort, a song doesn’t receive the appreciation it deserves when the film releases, but later, it finds its audience. For instance, Seedhe Saadha Saara Saudha from Aakrosh is now trending with reels being made, though it went unnoticed at the time.”
He remains humble about his contributions to the industry. “I don’t think I have a legacy of my own,” he chuckles. “I just try to do my best with every project. Time is the true judge of one’s work.”
Looking ahead, Irshad Kamil has an exciting lineup of projects, including Baby John, Sky Force in January, Chhava and Kesari 2. With his unwavering dedication to storytelling through music, Kamil continues to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences.