Vedang Raina on singing 'Maskara' with A.R. Rahman: 'Process pushed me to explore unknown depths'
Synopsis
Vedang Raina's collaboration with A.R. Rahman on 'Maskara' wasn't just a vocal performance—it was a masterclass in emotional depth. With Rahman's exacting creative process and Imtiaz Ali's intimate storytelling universe, the actor discovered dimensions of his character he didn't know existed. The track, released ahead of the film's June 2026 bow, signals a film where music and narrative are inseparable.
Key Takeaways
Vedang Raina performed the track ' Maskara ' for ' Main Vaapas Aaunga ', alongside vocalist Nilanjana Ghosh .
The song was recorded under the direction of Oscar-winner A.R.
Rahman , known for his meticulous creative process. ' Maskara ' explores young love through two contrasting perspectives: Jiya's playful exuberance and Keenu's quiet vulnerability.
Raina credited Rahman's process with pushing him to explore emotional depths he had not previously accessed. ' Main Vaapas Aaunga ' releases in cinemas on 12 June 2026 , starring Diljit Dosanjh , Naseeruddin Shah , Sharvari , and Vedang Raina .
Mumbai, 5 May 2025 — The makers of 'Main Vaapas Aaunga' on Tuesday unveiled the track 'Maskara', featuring vocals by actor Vedang Raina and singer Nilanjana Ghosh. Raina, who performed the song under the direction of Oscar-winner A.R. Rahman, described the recording experience as transformative, revealing how Rahman's meticulous approach unlocked emotional dimensions he had not previously accessed as a performer.
A New Dimension Through Music
Raina explained that 'Maskara' allowed him to inhabit his character Keenu in an entirely fresh manner. "It let me step into the character in a whole new way, not just as an actor, but through music," he said in a statement. The song captures the vulnerability and quiet understanding that defines Keenu's experience of budding romance, contrasting with the playful exuberance of his co-star Sharvari's character Jiya.
Working with A.R. Rahman
Raina reflected on the experience of recording with Rahman, stating: "Recording with A.R. Rahman, sir, was surreal. His process pushes you to explore depths you didn't know existed." He further noted that collaborating within director Imtiaz Ali's universe, where emotional authenticity permeates every frame, elevated the entire creative journey to something "truly unforgettable."
Nilanjana Ghosh's Perspective
Co-vocalist Nilanjana Ghosh echoed similar sentiments, describing Rahman's guidance as a "humbling and surreal experience." She highlighted his "quiet brilliance and attention to every emotion and note," crediting the maestro with deepening her understanding of the craft in a remarkably short span. "I was simply fortunate to be present in a moment shaped by such grace," Ghosh reflected.
The Song's Narrative
'Maskara' explores the timeless theme of young love through contrasting emotional lenses. For Jiya, the song pulses with sparkle and mischief—she dances through her feelings, transforming nervous energy into bold, playful expression. For Keenu, the experience is softer and more introspective: honest, vulnerable, and quietly perceptive of the emotions his counterpart is concealing beneath her teasing exterior. The track, composed and directed by Rahman, celebrates how the essence of youthful romance transcends time.
Film Details and Release
'Main Vaapas Aaunga' is set within Imtiaz Ali's signature cinematic universe of love and longing. The film ensemble includes Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Sharvari, and Vedang Raina. Produced by Applause Entertainment, Mohit Choudhary, and Shibasish Sarkar of Window Seat Films, the film is scheduled to release in cinemas on 12 June 2026.
Point of View
Vedang Raina's account of working with A.R. Rahman suggests something rarer: a performer genuinely transformed by the experience. Rahman's reputation for pushing artists beyond their perceived limits is well-earned, but what's noteworthy here is how both Raina and Nilanjana Ghosh independently describe the same phenomenon—that his process creates space for vulnerability and discovery. For 'Main Vaapas Aaunga', which hinges on emotional authenticity, that alignment between music and narrative could be the difference between a well-made film and one that resonates.
NationPress
25 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'Maskara' and who performs it?
'Maskara' is a track from the upcoming film 'Main Vaapas Aaunga', performed by actor Vedang Raina and vocalist Nilanjana Ghosh. The song was composed and directed by Oscar-winner A.R. Rahman and explores the theme of budding young love through contrasting emotional perspectives.
When does 'Main Vaapas Aaunga' release?
'Main Vaapas Aaunga' is scheduled to release in cinemas on 12 June 2026. The film is produced by Applause Entertainment, Mohit Choudhary, and Shibasish Sarkar of Window Seat Films.
Who directed 'Main Vaapas Aaunga'?
The film is directed by Imtiaz Ali, known for his distinctive cinematic universe centred on love and longing. The ensemble cast includes Diljit Dosanjh, Naseeruddin Shah, Sharvari, and Vedang Raina.
What did Vedang Raina say about working with A.R. Rahman?
Raina described the experience as surreal, stating that Rahman's meticulous process pushed him to explore emotional depths he did not previously know existed. He credited the collaboration with transforming how he inhabited his character, Keenu, both as an actor and as a vocalist.
