How do you feel about the response to the song "Aaya Share"?
Kasarla Shyam: The response has been overwhelming. From the moment the song promo was released, it created a buzz. After its official release, it shattered records and resonated with everyone. Anirudh took the words I wrote and created a tune that connected with the audience. The folk singers Jangireddy and Devayya sang it beautifully. Personally, it was a great feeling to talk about the lyrics of such a powerful song.
How has this song impacted your career?
Kasarla Shyam:This song gave me the biggest kick in my career. I've received amazing feedback, especially for the language and dialect I used. One person shared that after listening to the song, they felt inspired again, despite having lost everything in life. Messages like that mean a lot to me.
Can you share more about the movie and Nani's character?
Kasarla Shyam: Nani’s character is filled with strong emotions and a compelling backstory. The audience will understand the significance of his "Jadalu" (braids) after watching the movie. It’s been great seeing people do reels with braids and remember the culture. Anirudh mentioned that we were creating a big hit while working on the song, and I truly enjoyed the process.
How do you feel about your work being recognized in Telangana dialect?
Kasarla Shyam: It feels great! Senior poets like Kosaraju and Jaladi have set a path, and I'm following in their footsteps. Many of my songs have been in the Telangana dialect, and it's amazing to see the younger generation adopting it.
How did you feel when Balagam won a National Award?
Kasarla Shyam: Coming from a rural background, I always believed in the power of our language. It’s heartening to see that language being appreciated across the country. My work bringing older words back into light and seeing today’s youth embrace them makes me proud.
Can you share your journey as a lyricist?
Kasarla Shyam: My journey started with Chantigadu, and my first break came with the song "Neelapuri Gazalu." Then came Lai, which gave me special recognition. After that, Ismart Shankar, Ramulo Ramula, and DJ Tillu followed, and my career blossomed with continuous hits.
How was it working with Director Sreekanth Oodela on The Paradise?
Kasarla Shyam: Working with Sreekanth was a wonderful experience. He has a calm demeanor but when he needs to convey something, he does it with such emotion. The set of the song gave me the feeling of a "Sammakka Sarakka Jathara" (a cultural festival). His vision is crystal clear, and he has a remarkable grip on every department.
What was your approach to writing the song for Aaya Share?
Kasarla Shyam: The director gave me a clear idea of the song's situation. I focused on Nani’s character, a hero who rises from adversity. The idea was to show how a warrior emerges from the people, not from books. The lyrics reflect that, with phrases like "Pachabotu Gaayu" and "Gunjjukunna Nyayam." After the song released, the movie’s scale grew both commercially and in terms of emotional impact.
Can we expect your songs in upcoming movies with other big stars?
Kasarla Shyam: I can’t confirm anything just yet. However, I did write a song for Shankar Varaprasad featuring Chiranjeevi and Venkatesh, and I’m also working on Viswambhara and Ustaad with Pawan Kalyan.
How did Nani respond to the song?
Kasarla Shyam: Nani was thrilled. He said the song gave him a lifetime kick, and that the hits he’s had – from Dhoom Dham Dostana to Chamakila Angi – were all memorable. He even tweeted about how happy he was with the song’s success.
Can you tell us about your family and their involvement in the arts?
Kasarla Shyam: My elder son is studying in the US, but my younger son is interested in acting and music. He’s learning Hindustani classical music. He appeared in Dakoo Maharaj and Family Star films.
What movies are you currently working on?
Kasarla Shyam: I’m currently working on Lenin, Maa Inti Bangaram, and Ustaad Bhagat Singh, all of which are ready for release. There are a few other films in progress as well.
