How do you approach a number as celebrated as Hum Honge Kaamyaab (for I Am Banni) when you need to rehash it?
Yes, the original is a cult song with a tune that can never be forgotten. I was told to retain the lyrics, and perhaps add new ones. The concept of women's education that the film banks on is an important one. I knew that while the tune had to be appealing, it was also crucial that the song be meaningful and impactful. I got the lyrics right, and made certain that they were inspiring enough for listeners. Then, I made the composition. It took two to three versions for me to zero in on one I liked.

Was it your decision to rope in several artistes, including Kanika Kapoor, Amruta Fadnavis, Akriti Kakkar and Shaan, for it?
Initially, I wanted only young female singers for it. Doing so would suit the film's theme, which is about a girl hoping to continue to study. I had a good line-up of young singers who brought an inherent energy to the song. While the makers liked it, they said we should have an antara with a few male singers so that we could depict a male voice that supports the women. The idea was to say that we [the men] are with you [women]. That's when Shaan and I took to the mic. The track is modern, and soulful.