Music director Jatin Pandit, of composer duo Jatin-Lalit, who is known for timeless chartbusters like ‘Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’, ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham’ amongst others, has ventured into independent music with his first non-film single titled ‘Dhadakte Rehna’. In an exclusive interview with ETimes, Jatin opens up about the story behind the song, venturing into music videos, and more. Excerpts…

‘Dhadakte Rehna’ looks like a soulful romantic number. Tell us something about it?
Yes, ‘Dhadakte Rehna’ is soothing; it has a beautiful melody and the flavour of ’90s songs as well. It has been written, composed, and sung by me, and also features my son Raahul Jatin. The song naturally gets stuck in your mind. It’s very close to my heart.

What is the story behind the song?
While waiting in my studio for some people who were supposed to visit me, I randomly picked up my guitar and started playing it. Suddenly, I realised that I had created a melody and was enjoying the process. I immediately recorded the song and made my son listen to it. He loved the melody and insisted on making it an independent song.

Why do you think will music lovers like this song?
The song is quite unique in its own way as has a very refreshing melody. It has all kinds of expressions, so it connects to your heart. The beauty of the song is its innocence; both the actors have added a lot to the song too and it has been shot beautifully. It’s quite simple and sweet.

Was your son Raahul the obvious choice for the video or did you have someone else in mind too?
When the song was in production, my director Harper Gahunia suggested I look for a young couple, so that it appeals to the youth. I felt it was logical advice and that is how my son Raahul Jatin came into the picture. He added so much to the song and his body language was so spontaneous. I am sure he will easily get noticed in the song. And, of course, the picturisation is also very eye-pleasing. California added to the song’s appeal.

How was your experience shooting for the video?
It was a wonderful experience shooting this song. We have shot during the time of Covid-19, with all the safety measures and precautions in place. I also had a wonderful experience shooting this song with Raahul and his presence made the song even more special to me.

Is the process of creating a song for a music video and a film different?
I have done more than 150 films till date. There is a lot of difference between creating independent music and creating music for films. A movie has a script, a situation, and a character. The language and lyrics change according to the character. So there are restrictions and you have to work according to the set framework. In singles, it’s what you feel. Whatever you write, you can project it in the video. Irrespective of the process, the result is the same. You have to give out good music. Only then, it clicks with the audience.