Lyricist Raj Shekhar on Collaborating with Mohit Suri, Dreams of Writing for Shah Rukh Khan’s King

Lyricist Raj Shekhar on 100 Songs, Teaming Up with Mohit Suri, and His Dream to Write for Shah Rukh Khan’s King.

Over the last decade, Raj Shekhar has emerged as a quiet force in Hindi film music, penning lyrics that strike a deep emotional chord. From Mat Ja Re in Tanu Weds Manu Returns to Pehla Bhi Main in Animal, his words have become inseparable from the emotions they evoke. Now, with 100 songs under his belt, Shekhar is reflecting on his journey—and looking ahead to what’s next.

“There were many ups and downs, but I’m grateful to every director, composer, and character I got to write for. These words found a place in people’s hearts, and that’s a blessing,” he said.

On working with Mohit Suri for Saiyaara
Raj’s latest outing is Tum Ho Toh from Mohit Suri’s Saiyaara, a collaboration he describes as both enriching and effortless.

“Mohit Suri is someone who truly understands the pulse of music. He brings you into his world but gives you the space to build your own. It was a real joy working with him and Vishal [Mishra],” Raj shared.

He called his dynamic with Vishal Mishra “magical,” adding, “There’s trust and honest communication between us. We don’t rush through songs. There’s a meditative process that the audience connects with.”

“Writing simple is hardest”
For Shekhar, songwriting is as much about intent as it is about art. “I write for two audiences—characters and viewers. Magic lives in small, honest moments,” he said.

He drew a subtle distinction: “There’s a difference between simple and simplistic, just like childlike vs childish. Simple is beautiful. Simplistic, not always.”

On his dream to write for Shah Rukh Khan
Although open to working with any actor or filmmaker, Raj Shekhar has one dream he’s held onto: writing lyrics for Shah Rukh Khan.

“If I ever get to write for SRK, it’ll be a full-circle moment. In school, we all skipped classes to watch him on screen. To see my words on his face—what could be bigger?”

He also expressed his hope to be a part of Shah Rukh’s much-awaited action film King. “I don’t know where the film is at right now, but I would absolutely love to write for it.”

Looking ahead
As he steps into a new chapter, Raj hopes to work with legends like AR Rahman and Sanjay Leela Bhansali. “And I’m thankful I got to write for Irrfan Khan in Qarib Qarib Single—that will always remain special.”

From accidental beginnings to lyrical mastery, Raj Shekhar’s journey proves that sometimes, the simplest words make the loudest echoes.