Swanand Kirkire on his writing process: ‘I am a panic writer’ - Exclusive

Few lyricists in Bollywood have managed to make simple words feel as deeply personal as Swanand Kirkire. Over the years, he has written songs that have stayed with listeners long after the film has ended, whether it is Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh, Monta Re, Bawra Mann, Piyu Bole, Aashayein or Tu Kisi Rail Si. His writing has often stood out for being easy to understand, yet packed with emotion and meaning.

Apart from being a lyricist, Swanand Kirkire has also worked as a singer, screenwriter and actor, quietly building one of the most respected creative journeys in the industry. In a recent chat with Mirchi Plus, he spoke about writing, the emotional side of the craft, the actors he enjoys working with, and even the kind of writer he thinks he is.

When asked whether writing feels more like a craft, therapy or responsibility to him, Swanand admitted it was not an easy question to answer. “Very difficult question. Therapy jyada hai kyuki kyuki vo hame apne us self se milwati hai jo aap banna chahte ho.” (It is more therapy, because it introduces you to the version of yourself you want to become.)

Swanand’s songs are often praised for their simplicity. They don’t try too hard, but they still leave a strong emotional impact. Reacting to that, he said: “I don’t know about the impact ye toh fans and listeners hi bata payenge, but I write from my heart. And mujhe kayin baar aisa lagta hai ki kitni choti si chiz ap likhte ho aur vo itni door tak pahanch jati hai.” (I don’t know about the impact, only fans and listeners can truly say that. But I write from my heart. And many times, I feel amazed that something so small you write can travel so far.)

That perhaps explains why so many of his songs continue to connect across generations. There’s a certain honesty in the way he writes, and listeners often find themselves returning to his words years later.

When asked if there is any actor who completely justifies every piece of work he writes, Swanand had a clear answer. “It’d be Aamir Khan. I've worked with him a lot. Unke sath ek understanding bhi hai toh it’s easy to work with him.” (It would be Aamir Khan. I’ve worked with him a lot. There is an understanding with him, so it becomes easier to work together.)

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The conversation also touched on singers trying their hand at acting, something that has often had mixed results in Bollywood. But Swanand had one singer-actor in mind who he believes still deserves more opportunities on screen. “I think Sonu Nigam ko leke abhi bhi movies banani chahiye because he’s a tremendous actor. Maine actually ek film sunai bhi thi bahut pehle. I really wish to work with him.” (I think films should still be made with Sonu Nigam because he’s a tremendous actor. In fact, I had once narrated a film to him long ago. I really wish to work with him.)

And finally, when asked whether he sees himself as a disciplined writer or an impulsive one, Swanand gave perhaps the most relatable answer of the interview. “I am a panic writer. Yahan par talwar jabtak sir pe latak k girne nahi wali hoti hai tab tak ek sambd nahi aata.” He laughed after saying it, but for many writers and creators, that feeling is probably all too familiar.

Watch the full interview below:


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