When Sonu Nigam made Rajkumar Hirani cry

Sonu Nigam through his songs has given us ample reasons to feel overwhelmed. But looks like there are times when his songs leave even the filmy junta moist eyed and overwhelmed with emotions. At Jal’s music launch yesterday, acclaimed director Rajkumar Hirani narrated an incident about Sonu Nigam and his singing prowess. “I have spent nights recording music with Sonu Nigam because he generally likes singing at night. I remember we were planning to record Jaane nahi denge tujhe for 3 idiots. Shantanu (Moitra) said that the song is a difficult one and would require good practice before we record it finally. Then Sonu came and we gave him the tune and lines. After looking at it, he said 'let me rehearse.' Now Sonu has a very peculiar way of rehearsing. He went and did some pushups and then meditated for some time. Once done, he asked us to switch off the lights and then believe it or not, he sung the entire song in one take. All of us were left stunned. We were in tears after hearing him sing. Later that night none of us slept and Sonu regaled us with evergreen classics of Mohammed Rafi the entire night. We were once again left in tears.” Well, now we know why Sonu Nigam is often billed as the best voice in country. Sonu on his part, graciously accepted all compliments coming his way. Talking about Jal for which Sonu has composed music, the superstar singer and now composer said, “This is one of the most creatively satisfying work I have done till date because we didn't really have a reference point while composing music for Jal. I have associated myself with this film because music here plays an integral part in Jal. It also was the right platform to introduce the new sounds and music design that both Bickram (Ghosh) and I were very excited about.” Talking about how comfortable he was composing music with Bickram, Sonu said, “Fights happen only when there are ego issues. We are both strong personalities and we don’t indulge in any fake praises. We don’t have ego issues. So we gelled well because we respect each other and try to bring out the best in both of us rather than indulging in frivolous talks of who is the best between the both of us.” Jal starring Purab Kohli and Kirti Kulhari will open on 4 April 2014.