One of the most anticipated movies of the year, Ang Lee’s 'Life of Pi' has been all over the news for its special effects. Enough has been written since then about the Indian cast and the technicians behind the movie. But then we got to speak to Shrikanth Sriram aka Shri, who created the movie’s theme song (Indian version).
Sriram, best known for his work in a Google Chrome short based on the dying Tanjore arts, which was nominated at Cannes Lions in the Best Original Music category, has also worked in the television series, 'CSI' and later, for the 2007 Hollywood film, 'Battle in Seattle' as part of the Badmarsh&Shri duo.
He has since provided background scores and soundtracks for Bollywood films such as 'Striker' (2010).
In 2011, Sriram was featured on 'The Dewarists' – a collaborative fusion music television series, along with Rajasthan Roots and Monica Dogra.
Additionally, his live music act ‘Shrilektric’ – India’s first acoustic, electronic and computing based performance concept – has also been featured at festivals, including Sunburn and York Live.
The song – Manzil –which will be used as a promotional video, will go on air next week.
Case of identity
Talking about the theme song for the movie, Sriram says, “Director Ang Lee showed me some scenes and I realised that the song should give the audience an idea about the movie and yet take a life of its own. The song had to be Indian in nature because people should be able to connect with it. It should match the sensibilities of the local population.”
The Bengaluru-based artist has introduced the concept of folktronics (bringing folk music in an urban format). But he hopes to be a part of the mainstream music industry.
“One cannot write a song with a hit in mind. Sometimes, a man singing with just a guitar can become the most popular song on the planet,” says the 44-year-old, who does not want to confine himself to a particular genre. “I learnt the tabla, learnt some jazz as well. I don’t want to limit myself. But wherever I go, I will be what I am,” says Sriram.
