"I don't do casting couch" - Onir 
By Joginder Tuteja, July 30, 2007 - 14:47 IST
"I don't do casting couch for people who want to be part of my films", laughs Onir, director of Bas Ek Pal and My Brother Nikhil.
Responding to a query regarding his criteria for roping in singers for his upcoming film My Brother's Bride which he produces as well as
directs, he adds, “What I look for in a singer is an interesting voice. Of course, he/she should also know how to sing. It's the right time to bring
on new talent. This is what sells best rather than going back to tried and tested formula."
Talking from Delhi while recording songs with Gaurav Dayal of 'Dil Le Gayi Kudi' [Jassi], 'Nach Le Soniye' [Aetbaar] and 'Tana
Re' [Say Salaam India] fame, Onir says, "I had heard Gaurav's compositions and was pretty thrilled about the wide range of work he has been
doing. He suggested that we rope in untried singers for My Brother's Bride."
Was he convinced with this suggestion? After all music companies are known to back albums with established composers and singers. "Let me
be honest here; it was a sudden decision. While I was convinced that stars do not guarantee good music, luckily the people I spoke to also
didn't have any qualms about new talent at work", explains Onir whose 'Tere Bin' from Bas Ek Pal is still a rage. "I am in talks with
HMV and they are fine if we work with new people. There are 4-5 new singers who would be heard in this album."
What made him choose singers from Delhi even though Mumbai is where all the action is? "Misconception", he revolts instantly, "Why do we
have to continue believing that it is only Mumbai or Chennai that can provide musical talent? And if we don't get anything here, we head to
Pakistan. Why? I believe we have enough good singers at Delhi waiting to be explored. We have just recorded a song with this new guy called
Abhishek. He is Gaurav's discovery and has done a phenomenal job."
While Onir seems to be quite kicked about working with Gaurav on the film's music, what does the man on the hot seat has to say? Says Gaurav,
"Though Say Salaam India got me some good reviews, I am looking at My Brother's Bride as my first major big film. It has that
blockbuster element to it due to its multi starcast.”
How about Onir? “With Onir it has been a pleasure working since there hasn't been any pressure during the job. He is non-interfering and allows
you to compose the way you want to. In fact, he instills confidence in you to do a better job", concludes Gaurav fondly.
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Onir 'discusses' films at Berlin Festival
