Mumbai: In an era where chartbusters are often followed by songs attempting to recreate the same magic, composer Anand Raaj Anand has always believed originality is the only formula that truly lasts. Looking back at the making of *Jalebi Bai*, he recalls how the song was born because he refused to imitate an existing hit.
“When *Sheila Ki Jawani* had become a rage, I was asked to create something on similar lines. I immediately said that was the biggest mistake anyone could make,” Anand shares. “If someone asks me to make another *Dil De Diya Hai*, I’ll only end up making a weaker version of it. Every successful song has its own identity.”
Instead of chasing a trend, Anand insisted on finding a fresh idea. Hours of brainstorming yielded nothing until a late-night dinner changed everything. “The waiter casually said, ‘Jalebi hai, bhai,’ while listing desserts. Those three words immediately stayed with me. That’s how *Jalebi Bai* was born.”
For Anand, inspiration often arrives from the most unexpected places. “As composers, we’re always listening. Ordinary conversations become extraordinary ideas if you’re receptive enough. That’s how creativity works.”
He believes audiences can immediately sense when music is honest and when it is merely trying to replicate something that has already worked. “People don’t fall in love with copies. They connect with something they haven’t heard before.”
Even today, Anand says he advises young composers to avoid following trends blindly. “Take inspiration from great music, but never try to duplicate it. Trends fade. Originality becomes your identity.”
For the veteran musician, the success of *Jalebi Bai* reaffirmed one belief that has guided his entire career. “A song should surprise even its creator. That’s when you know you’ve discovered something new.”
