My Dream is to Build a World-Class Music School: Music Sensation Thaman

Q: How do you manage so many projects and handle them efficiently?

At one time, films were more routine. Now, we’re seeing different kinds of stories and unique concepts, which allows me to create diverse music. I’m thoroughly enjoying this phase. Projects like Telusu Kada, OG, Game Changer, and Daku Maharaj are each distinct in their own way. For instance, Daku Maharaj will have only three songs, while Game Changer has seven. Director Shankar is returning to a proper commercial film after a long time. It will feature everything, from family-friendly moments to fights. Game Changer is a film that the whole family can enjoy together.

Q: What precautions do you take when composing background scores?

If there’s no emotion in the movie, no matter how much effort I put into the score, it’s useless. I align my music with the story and the director’s vision. For example, I cannot replicate Akhanda’s style for Bhagavanth Kesari. When it comes to background music, after Mani Sharma, I’m trying to set a new trend. For some films, the focus should be on the voices; for others, it’s about instrumental sounds. When working on Akhanda, it felt like Lord Shiva was guiding me. I’m unsure if I can create background music of that caliber again.

Q: How has it been working on Pushpa 2?

When I watched Pushpa 2, I was blown away. It’s extraordinary. After this film, awards will chase Bunny (Allu Arjun). I was initially asked to complete the entire score in 15 days, which wasn’t feasible. So, I focused on completing the first half with the available time.

Q: Do you feel there’s anything left for you to achieve?

I haven’t achieved anything yet. My real journey starts now. Our industry is growing. Earlier, we used to bring in artists from other states or languages. Now, globally renowned artists are willing to act in our films. For OG, we’re in talks with Korean and Japanese talents. As the industry’s span widens, I need to learn and evolve to match global standards.

Q: Who inspires you in music?

My dream is to reach A.R. Rahman’s level. During Boys, director Shankar saw me as an actor, but it took years for him to recognize me as a good music director. Working on Shankar’s film was my dream, but I always felt I didn’t fit his or Sukumar’s style. That’s why I didn’t even have their contact numbers. During the lockdown, Shankar reportedly watched Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo multiple times. When Dil Raju mentioned the Game Changer project and asked me to meet Shankar, I was nervous. But the album was completed within six months.

Q: What can we expect from Game Changer’s songs? How has Shankar created his magic?

On the 20th of this month, we’ll release a duet song from Game Changer. Later, we plan a grand event in the U.S. to launch the song Dope, which will also have an English version. The song picturizations are mind-blowing; you’ll feel like two eyes aren’t enough to take it all in. After a long time, audiences will experience perfectly commercial songs. These six songs alone are worth the ticket price. Shankar filmed the six songs first before shooting the scenes.

Q: When can we expect updates about The Raja Saab?

Raja Saheb will have six songs, including a remix. The songs will suit a proper commercial film. We plan to share updates from January.

Q: What do you have to say about the criticism you face?

I’ve composed music for many routine films, and during that time, I was trolled as a “copycat” or “copy goat.” However, I no longer select routine projects. Smart individuals can copy music so carefully that it’s hard to trace, but I lack that skill. If I copied, I’d get caught instantly (laughs).

Q: When can we expect updates about OG?

If I share anything about OG, it becomes DC (Damage Control), so I speak cautiously. We initially planned to release a song and poster on September 2, but the floods made everyone reconsider. Updates will start in January. Nearly 80% of the shoot is complete. OG will have an opening like never before in India.

Q: On a personal note, what do your wife and children do?

My wife handles all my accounts and music affairs. If I need money, I ask her, and she provides it. My son is in his first year at IIT. My family is slowly relocating to Hyderabad.

Q: How do you manage everything? How supportive is your team?

My first paycheck was ₹30. As a keyboard player, my maximum earning was ₹40,000 per day, which was the highest in India back then. After a day’s work, bringing home that money felt incredibly satisfying. My 25-year-old team is my strength; they’re always with me.

Q: Are you scoring music for Allu Arjun and Trivikram’s next project?

Yes, I’m composing for Bunny and Trivikram’s next film. With this project, Trivikram will move to the next league, where he rightfully belongs. He’s crafting a new world for this project, which you’ll soon see.

Q: It’s been a while since we saw a complete love story album from you. Any updates?

Telusu Kada is a beautiful love story written by Neeraja Kona. Vishwaprasad from People Media Factory is supporting her. The film has six amazing songs, and Siddhu got a fantastic role. The movie is shaping up beautifully. After Tholi Prema, this will be another great love story album from me.

Q: What’s your life’s dream or ambition?

I want to build a music school to teach underprivileged individuals for free. Places with music see lower crime rates. I also enjoy playing cricket, it refreshes my mind and inspires new tunes. In the next two to three years, I plan to build a world-class studio here. I may even approach the government for support, though I won’t ask for land.

Q: Will your son follow in your footsteps as a music director?

By observing how my son plays the piano, I can tell what emotions he’s feeling. However, I don’t give him advice or guide him on which path to take. I believe he will learn through experience and return stronger.

Q: Are you collaborating with Akira Nandan for OG?

For OG, I’m planning to include a song by Ramana Gogula. Akira is a fantastic pianist, and I’d love to involve him. Akira worked with me for two months, and his long fingers make him a perfect pianist.