Exclusive - Upendra's UI Doesn’t Fit Into Single Genre: Music Director Ajaneesh Loknath

Ajaneesh Loknath is one of the most sought-after musicians in the Kannada film industry. With a string of high-profile projects under his belt, including Darshan's The Devil, Kiccha Sudeep's Billa Ranga Basha, and Max, he has firmly established himself as a leading music director in Sandalwood.

As Upendra's much-anticipated movie UI hits the screens on Friday, Ajaneesh spoke to Oneindia about the movie, working with the Real Star and more in this interview.

Can you tell us about UI?

We have a very positive feeling about the movie. UI is unique in every sense-its story, screenplay, and overall approach are unlike anything we've seen before. It's a project that stands out, and I am confident that audiences will resonate with it.

How was your experience working on UI?

Usually, when working with big stars, there's always pressure to deliver hit songs. However, with UI, it was a completely different experience. Uppi sir made the process smooth and stress-free. He encouraged me to enjoy the journey of creating music rather than focusing on the pressure to perform.

The ideas for tunes and lyrics often came up during casual conversations, which made the entire process organic and enjoyable. Uppi sir is incredibly clear about what he wants, which simplifies things for a composer. One of the best things about him is his constructive approach-he never dismisses a song outright but instead suggests thoughtful improvements to elevate it further.

What's your take on working with Real Star Upendra?

Working with Uppi sir has been a transformative experience. He's an intellectual and deeply thoughtful person. His immense knowledge and clarity about what he wants from a song or scene make the process so much easier. In fact, he cuts down nearly half of the effort required by being precise about the film's needs.

It's difficult to summarize him in a single word or sentence. His thought process is unparalleled, and his ability to blend creativity with purpose makes him truly extraordinary.

Can you tell us about the songs in the movie?

The film features four songs, and each has been crafted with the same tune but adapted with lyrics in multiple languages. The credit for the lyrics goes entirely to Uppi sir. He's brought his unique perspective to each track, making them integral to the narrative.

What is your response to the 'Cheap Song' controversy?

I believe it's all about mindset and perspective. How someone interprets a song depends on their own thoughts and outlook. Music and art are subjective, and it's up to the audience to perceive it in their own way.

Is UI a political thriller?

Not at all. UI defies categorization- it doesn't fit into any single genre. It's a multi-layered film with hidden details that offer more depth the closer you look. The movie is a blend of various elements, making it an experience unlike any other. In short, UI is a mixture of everything-a true one-of-its-kind cinema.