Italian
G.V. Prakash Kumar: A multifaceted journey in Indian cinema
From child singer to acclaimed composer
G.V. Prakash Kumar’s journey in the Indian film industry is nothing short of remarkable. Starting as a child singer in his uncle A.R. Rahman’s “Gentleman” (1993), Kumar has evolved into a prominent composer and actor. His debut as a film composer came at the young age of 19 with the Tamil-language movie “Veyil” in 2006. Kumar’s foray into Hindi cinema began with the background score for “Gangs of Wasseypur” in 2012, marking his entry into Bollywood.
Expanding horizons in Bollywood
Kumar’s recent work in Bollywood includes composing for “Sarfira” and the upcoming “Emergency.” He emphasizes the importance of incorporating regional flavors into film music, stating that while core emotions are universal, the local essence must be captured. For “Sarfira,” a remake of the Tamil film “Soorarai Pottru,” Kumar integrated Marathi and lavani musical elements to reflect its setting in Maharashtra.
Capturing the essence of political power
In “Emergency,” set during India’s 1975 political crisis, Kumar focused on the theme of power struggles. He utilized live brass, trumpets, and band instruments to create a vintage sound that evokes the period. This approach highlights his ability to adapt his music to the narrative’s demands, making the score an integral part of the storytelling.
A rooted approach in “Thangalaan”
Kumar is particularly excited about his score for Pa. Ranjith’s highly anticipated “Thangalaan,” starring Vikram. The film’s tribal roots inspired Kumar to incorporate deep tribal voices, woodwinds, and shout calls. He aimed to create a soundscape that is both theatrical and distinct from his contemporaries, adding an international touch to the tribal elements.
Influences and inspirations
Kumar credits his mother, a singer, and his uncle, the Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman, as major influences. Working closely with Rahman on soundtracks like “Rang De Basanti,” “Swades,” and “Kisna” provided Kumar with invaluable insights into film scoring and music production. Despite these influences, Kumar has strived to develop his own identity, creating a unique sound that stands out in films like ”Aayirathil Oruvan” and “Madrasapattinam.”
A prolific acting career
Since his acting debut in “Darling” (2015), which won him the Filmfare award for best acting debut, Kumar has become one of India’s most prolific performers. He has three releases slated for 2024 alone. Kumar chooses roles based on unique plots and characters that drive the script, aiming to portray diverse characters across different genres.
Notable acting roles
Kumar cites films like Bala’s “Naachiyaar,” Rajiv Menon’s “Sarvam Thaala Mayam,” Sasi’s “Sivappu Manjal Pachai,” and Sathish Selvakumar’s “Bachelor” as highlights of his acting career. These films offered him the opportunity to explore a wide range of character portrayals, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
The magical world of “Kingston”
Currently, Kumar is juggling multiple roles in the adventure film “Kingston,” which he compares to the magical world of Harry Potter. The film, produced by Kumar’s Parallel Universe Pictures alongside Zee Studios, features supernatural elements and a visually stunning backdrop. Kumar stars in the film and composes its music, balancing his responsibilities by dedicating specific time to each aspect.
Aiming for a pan-Indian release
Kumar aims for an October or November release for “Kingston,” with plans for a pan-Indian distribution. He is optimistic about the film’s potential, stating that they have a good distribution company to ensure its worldwide reach.
Looking ahead: International projects and live performances
Kumar is open to international projects as both a composer and actor, finding the prospect of working in new languages intriguing. He is also exploring live performances, following a successful concert in Coimbatore that drew a crowd of 75,000. Kumar is currently in talks for shows in Malaysia and the U.K., expanding his reach beyond the Indian subcontinent.
Conclusion
G.V. Prakash Kumar’s journey in Indian cinema is a testament to his versatility and dedication. From his early days as a child singer to becoming a celebrated composer and actor, Kumar continues to push boundaries and explore new horizons. His ability to adapt and innovate in both music and acting ensures that his contributions to the industry will be remembered for years to come.
For more information on the movies and series mentioned, you can check out the trailers and details here:
