Nikhita Gandhi on ‘love storiyaan’ in ‘Kesariya’ song: It makes an otherwise classic song even more unique – Exclusive – Times of India

After delivering hit songs in films like, ‘Raabta’ and ‘Jagga Jasoos’, Nikhita Gandhi has collaborated once again with composer Pritam for the ‘Kesariya’ song in Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor starrer ‘Brahmastra’. She has lent her voice for additional vocals to the song. In an exclusive interview with ETimes, the young singer talked about the reaction she has been receiving for the song, usage of the term ‘love storiyaan’, working with the ace composer and more. Excerpts…

‘Kesariya’ from ‘Brahmastra’ has been topping the music charts ever since its release. What kind of reactions have you been receiving?
A lot of tags mostly on Instagram! The version I posted on my profile also seemed to receive a lot of love as well! I am just happy to be a part of it.

How did you come on board for the song and how was your experience recording the song?
Dada (Pritam) called me a few days before the release for singing some outro sections and I remember my mom had just landed in Mumbai so I picked her up and took her straight to the studio for the late-night session. It was really fun and I got to live the song that day which felt very special.

After ‘Raabta’, ‘Jagga Jasoos’ and others, you have reunited with Pritam for ‘Kesariya’. What kind of bond do you both share as a singer and a composer?
Well, in the eyes of the public it looks like a ‘reunion’ but I have been working on Dada’s music all year round right from my first release ‘Raabta’. There is so much that happens in the making stages of films and music and Pritam Da has a lot of releases coming out, all of which are brewing. So who knows, you might hear a lot more!

While ‘Kesariya’ has been receiving immense love from one quarter, it has left the other half divided due to the words ‘love storiyaan’ in the song. What are your thoughts on the same?
Honestly, that line never bothered me. It makes an otherwise classic song even more unique. I have always admired Amitabh Bhattacharya’s work and I think he has such a unique take on lyric writing. So honestly, I feel that’s one of the most signature parts of the song.

After ‘Kesariya’, fans have high hopes for other songs from the film…
Dada always delivers! Is there even any doubt?

‘Brahmastra’ is one of the most awaited films of the year. Is the film on your watchlist too?
I think it would be too big a film to not watch. And as always, such a pleasure to be working with Arijit who is truly a living legend and such a wonderful person!