Have Bollywood Lyrics Lost Their Depth? Swanand Kirkire Thinks Not!
Synopsis
Swanand Kirkire, a National Award-winning lyricist, defends the evolution of Bollywood lyrics, arguing they have adapted rather than lost their poetic richness. Discover his insights on the changing landscape of music, the importance of linguistic engagement, and the rising talent from smaller towns. Join us as we explore the future of Bollywood lyrics.
Key Takeaways
Swanand Kirkire believes Bollywood lyrics have evolved, not diminished.
New vocabulary reflects the changing perspectives of younger generations.
There exists a blend of commercial and meaningful songs in the industry.
Young artists are encouraged to enhance their Hindi proficiency.
Emerging talents from smaller towns and the independent rap scene are thriving.
Mumbai, Feb 19 (NationPress) National Award-winning lyricist Swanand Kirkire asserts that mainstream Bollywood lyrics have not diminished in their poetic essence; instead, they have transformed alongside evolving cultural contexts and perceptions.
When asked whether he feels that lyrics have lost their artistic value in Bollywood, Kirkire responded to IANS: “I don’t believe that lyrics have been compromised. You see, new sounds and fresh vocabulary are entering the lyrics.”
“Certainly, the traditional imagery may fade, and that’s natural, as younger generations perceive the world differently. A new lexicon will inevitably shape their lyrics. Therefore, I don’t think all that is new is inferior, nor do I believe that everything old was superior. Lyrics remain lyrics.”
The acclaimed lyricist highlighted that the industry has consistently featured a blend of commercially popular songs and those rich in meaning.
“Indeed, a significant portion of lyrics aims for immediate popularity. Yet, there’s another segment that delves into deeper themes. Both movements coexist.”
Nonetheless, Kirkire emphasized the importance of enhanced linguistic engagement among emerging artists.
“The new generation invests more effort into lyrics. They have a strong grasp of sounds, but as Hindi isn’t their primary language, many are educated in public and English-medium schools. They should aim to strengthen their Hindi proficiency. That’s crucial.”
Simultaneously, he commended artists emerging from smaller towns and the burgeoning independent rap scene.
“Those from smaller towns creating music today, including rappers, are excelling. Thus, I don’t believe that meaning is being lost,” he remarked.
Kirkire’s latest project is the series “Bandwaale”, currently available on Prime Video. This show, co-created with Ankur Tewari, marks a notable advancement in his storytelling journey.
Kirkire has received the National Film Award for Best Lyrics twice: first in 2006 for “Bande Me Tha Dum...Vande Mataram” from the movie Lage Raho Munna Bhai, and again in 2009 for “Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh” from 3 Idiots.
In 2018, at the 66th National Film Awards, he earned the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for the Marathi film Chumbak. He has also made cameo appearances as Sansad ji in Panchayat 3 and Mansoor Khan Sahab in Qala, where he also contributed as a lyricist and singer.
Point of View
I acknowledge the thoughtful insights of Swanand Kirkire regarding the evolution of Bollywood lyrics. While some critics claim that the depth of lyricism has diminished, Kirkire emphasizes the transformative nature of language and cultural expression. It is crucial to appreciate the blend of commercial and meaningful lyrics as they co-exist in today's music industry.
NationPress
8 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Swanand Kirkire think about modern Bollywood lyrics?
Kirkire believes modern Bollywood lyrics have evolved with changing times rather than lost their depth.
How has the vocabulary in Bollywood lyrics changed?
Younger generations introduce new sounds and vocabulary into lyrics, reflecting their unique perspectives.
What is Kirkire's latest project?
His latest project is the series 'Bandwaale', streaming on Prime Video.
What awards has Swanand Kirkire won?
Kirkire has won the National Film Award for Best Lyrics twice and Best Supporting Actor in 2018.
What does Kirkire suggest for younger lyricists?
He emphasizes the importance of improving their Hindi language skills.
