'The beauty of life is my musical inspiration'

Noted Bollywood music director Shantanu Moitra speaks to Sakhi Nair about music and his personal idols.

When were you initiated into music and by whom?
I was into music from childhood as my father was a musician and a scientist. The house always had a music atmosphere. I learnt to play guitar in Class 5 because I thought it was cool. Then cool became a serious passion.

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How would you describe or cateogrise your music?
Shantanu Moitra category. It's essentially melody straight from the heart. I have been told that when one listens to my songs it's clear they are my compositions.

Is Indian classical music important?
Classical music is the basis of all music from India. I believe raga-based songs are important. In the last 15 years, raga-based songs have reduced but these have longer shelf life.

Who among your peers do you consider path breaking?
AR Rahman for his songs, arrangements and use of Indian and western sounds.

Who are your idols?
Salil Chaudhary and John Williams.

What inspires your music?
The beauty of life in all its glory, nature, people and animals, is my inspiration.

What has been your most challenging project to date?
3 Idiots. It was very difficult to create soulful yet contemporary music that is exclusive, yet appeals to all.

If not a music composer or a singer, what would you have been?
A mountain climber. It's my passion. Whenever I can, I go to the mountains.