‘Sun Sahiba Sun’, a song of upcoming Odia movie ‘Chal tike Dusta Haba’, has garnered a viewership of 7 million in a matter of days. Famed lyricist Panchanan Nayak has penned the lyrics of the song. In a career spanning over 30 years, he has been a pioneer of modern soulful songs in Odia film industry. He has written the lyrics of popular Odia songs like ‘Batoire Batoi’, ‘Rupa Bagichre Suna Ra Foola’, ‘Sadhab Bohu’, ‘Kichi Mora Aasilani Aasibara’ and ‘Tu Mo Suna Chadei’ among others. In an interview with Chaitali Shome of Orissa Post, he threw light on his forte and future plans. Excerpts:
How does it feel to receive such an overwhelming response to ‘Sun Sahiba Sun’?
It’s truly great and I feel quite happy to pen down such a peppy yet soulful track. Initially, I couldn’t believe the viewership that the song was garnering. However, the news is gradually making sense. Above all, I am happy to have worked for those who were waiting to hear something that touches their heart.
Why is Odia Music losing its charm gradually?
Nowadays, we have lost our traditional music and young music directors are following music and tunes of film industries of other states. Cheap music as well as lyrics is certainly destroying the harmony of Odia songs.
Who shaped up your musical journey?
My poet gurus are Trinath Singh and Ashok Mohapatra and in music my guru is Malay Mishra. These amazing teachers have shaped up my career as a lyricist and poet. I used to write poems for children in magazines like Bagha Mamu, Tiki Duniya, Bilua Nana and Kuni Raija among others since Std VI.
Describe the current trend in music industry of the state.
The inclusion of English and Hindi words in music is trending these days. However, I completely detest it. As far I am concerned, I am always inspired by nature’s beauty and village folks as I am simple man from Mangalpur (Tihidi Block, Bhadrak).
According to you, who is the greatest musician in the history of Odisha?
It’s none other than Khoka Bhai who is an inspiration for multiple generations. Even after his death, his music and songs are being remixed and sold in the market.
How do contemporary singers manage to sound melodious in a studio and rough on stage?
It’s the technology which is making raw singers sound good while recording. However, in reality, their voice cracks up while singing on stage. This is due to the lack of any technology in live concerts.
Who are the most promising singers of the state today?
Humane Sagar, Satyajit and Ira Mohanty are quite promising. Others are yet to shine.
Do you feel item songs are destroying the image of the industry?
Songs like ‘Bou Mariba’ and ‘A for Apple’ have double meanings attached to them and are certainly destroying the image of our industry. We are losing our musical value with such item songs. I often call them ‘Fita’ and not ‘Geeta’.
Do you have any advice for budding Odia singers?
I would advise them against trying to be overnight stars. Learn to be a good human being first. This would help you become good artistes.