Varshangalkku Shesham star Shaan Rahman – ‘I was in composer’s block until King of Kotha came up’ | Exclusive

Most people were surprised to see the 'new' Shaan Rahman in Vineeth Sreenivasan's Varshangalkku Shesham, after watching the teaser and trailer. A disclaimer stating that they are rebranding Malayali's favourite music director was included in the teaser, as the makers were aware that he was about to surprise the audience.

With this movie, which opens in theatres on April 11, Shaan is poised to establish himself as an actor after receiving numerous accolades for his songs in critically acclaimed and popular films. In an interview with OTTplay, the music composer discusses his comfort level when working with Vineeth and the reasons he likes to collaborate with newcomers.

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It is possible that acting was never on your cards. So, how did you get approached this time—for acting rather than music?

Because I have collaborated with Vineeth for so long, we have a mutual understanding that is beneficial to our films. Vineeth had asked me to play a small role in Thira. In the back of my mind, I was interested in everything, but since music is my area of expertise, I continued to concentrate on that rather than diving into other areas. But Vineeth always seems to know how to see right through people. He gave me his word that I was capable of accomplishing this job in Varshangalkku Shesham.

I think the reason he gave me this role was because he trusted me, so I chose to go with the flow. I did as he said, and once I put on the outfit, wig, and moustache, I had no trouble fitting in with the role. After the movie comes out, I might be able to discuss the character in greater detail. Above all, the actors and crew have been incredibly helpful and cooperative. I enjoy making music, but why not accept such varied and interesting roles once in a while?

As a musician, mental blocks are a common occurrence. After working in the field for nearly 15 years, have you ever figured out how to get over it?

I have experienced frequent mind blocks, which are caused by working nonstop, back-to-back, and producing a lot of songs—especially one or two per day. Handling the pressure is the most important thing. For instance, there may be a love song in each of the four films you are working on. Additionally, you have to exercise caution so that none of them sound the same. There will be a common texture, but I have to put all of that aside and concentrate on structuring the composition around the plot and the characters.

I still have no idea how to get over it; like you said, it is just a creative process. I provided the soundtracks to a few films that I had previously composed because I was having a mental block right before King of Kotha descended upon me.

But I was offended when a friend of mine asked if I was going to provide pre-composed music for this as well. My ego was literally hit, and I overcame my block to start working on three compositions instead of just one in King of Kotha right away. I have a collection of albums with a variety of songs that I compose on a sporadic basis, such as love songs and fight ones, that have not been used in any films yet.

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Have you ever turned down a job because you were not sure the script was good enough?

Even though I have turned down some, I generally do not turn down right away. The majority of the films for which I am approached, the producers say, are dependent only on my music. When I have expressed reluctance to work on certain films, I have also witnessed changes in their faces. I attempt to push the dates a little in the hopes that they won't choose me, but most of the time it doesn't work,turn them and they wait until the designated time. If I know there's no way I can understand or relate, I reject. Since I don't want to hurt anyone, I usually don't say no the first time.

In an interview, Vineeth said that when he travels, his mind is engaged and often gets ideas. Do you have any such practices?

I believe the majority of composers have stated that most of their inspiration truly strikes in the toilet while brushing or taking a bath. While eating dinner with my family, the song "Jimikki Kammal" came to me. Thoughts strike in the most unexpected moments, whether driving or binge-watching television. I record right away on my phone and work on it later in my studio.

You became extremely popular because of the reality show, Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Keralam. Did it provide you with a means of revealing the true, fun-loving Shaan?

I used to think of myself as a person with a lot of attitude before this show. After being a judge on this popular reality show, everything changed. More people began to recognise me than when I was in films. Many used to remark on how entertaining the show was to watch, citing my and Jeeva's combination moments. I have also discovered some amazing new voices thanks to it. The show's jury and contestants sang a few of my recent songs.

Have you consciously chosen to offer newcomers more opportunities?

Indeed! I like to go with newcomers because I am aware of how difficult it can be to get a chance to prove oneself. My life has not always been as colourful as people think it is. I used to cry uncontrollably in my car on certain days. The younger generation may be able to handle some of the challenges we faced. I would be delighted to help this industry and young talent in any way I can. Giving someone the chance to make a life-changing opportunity can do no harm.

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