In this Telugu podcast episode, Oscar-winning lyricist Mr. Kanukuntla Subhash Chandrabose shares a deeply personal and inspiring journey through words, music, and resilience, marking a historic moment for Indian cinema with *RRR* becoming the first absolute Indian film to win an Oscar. He relives the emotion of that night, the pride of global recognition, and the lesser-known moment when legendary American songwriter Diane Warren predicted the Oscar win weeks before nominations were even announced. For Chandrabose, the award was not just a trophy but validation of Indian storytelling, Telugu language, and music reaching the world.
With over 3600 Telugu film songs to his name, Chandrabose reflects on how songs like *Nenu Unnanani*, *Panchadara Bomma*, *Raju Nuvve*, *Chiru Chiru Chinukai*, *Kumkumala*, *Oo Antava*, and many others were born in the most ordinary yet magical moments like train journeys, petrol bunk stops, long nights, and emotional conversations. He talks about writing songs during travel, singing them to himself hundreds of times, and creating multiple versions before arriving at the final lyric. Long before digital metrics existed, he believed that people were the only true measure of success, even distributing cassettes by hand during *Student No.1* and learning directly from audience reactions.
The episode dives into his unique writing philosophy shaped by his illiterate mother who deeply loved songs, and the lifelong influence of literary giants like Acharya Aatreya, Sri Sri, Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry, and others. Chandrabose explains why writing simply is far more difficult than writing complex poetry, how he avoids repetition across thousands of songs, and why emotion always comes before structure. He reflects on rejection, humiliation, and the patience required to keep going, sharing how some songs received true recognition only after 20 years.
He also speaks about the evolution of Telugu cinema music, the misunderstood role of item songs, and how their purpose and meaning have transformed over time. From decoding lyrics on shows like Swarabhishekam to collaborations with iconic directors and composers, Chandrabose shares behind-the-scenes stories that shaped landmark soundtracks. The conversation touches on dubbing songs, lip-sync challenges, the greatness of the Telugu language, and how lyrics can travel beyond cinema to influence society, business, and real-life decisions.
A significant part of the discussion focuses on royalties, IPRS, and intellectual property rights, and how songwriters today can finally receive long-term recognition and earnings. Chandrabose explains how songs like *Kumkumala* and *Chiru Chiru Chinukai* continue to generate royalties years later, proving that music outlives films. He also acknowledges pioneers like Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry for fighting for writers’ rights and creating a foundation for future generations.
Blending childhood memories, his BTech background, early struggles, love for language, emotional connection with “amma,” and unforgettable moments from his career, this episode is warm, reflective, and deeply motivating. If you love Telugu songs, lyric writing, Indian cinema, music history, creative journeys, and stories behind iconic melodies, this conversation offers inspiration, honesty, and timeless wisdom that stays with you long after the music fades.