10 August,2026 07:59 AM IST | Mumbai | Priyanka Sharma
Armaan Malik. Pics/By Special Arrangement, Instagram
Nearing two decades in the industry, Armaan Malik has fulfilled almost every wish a singer-songwriter could have - hit songs, countless awards, and legions of fans. But one wish remained unanswered. Until now. After singing in several languages across the country, Malik is thrilled to foray into Malayalam cinema with the track, Mazhavillaye, for Dulquer Salmaan's I'm Game. In an interview with mid-day, the musician reveals how the collaboration happened and the challenges of singing in Malayalam.
Excerpts from the interview.
How did I'm Game happen to you?
Over the years, I've been lucky enough to sing in Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada, but Malayalam was one language I wanted to explore more. So, when Jakes Bejoy [composer] reached out with Mazhavillaye, I was excited. I was also wanting to collaborate with Jakes for quite some time because I admire his work.
What was the collaboration with Bejoy like?
He explained the emotional space the song lives in and where it sits in the film. Once I understood that, the rest came quite naturally. What I loved about working with him was how much freedom he gave me as a singer. He wasn't trying to over-direct every phrase or note. He trusted me to bring my own musicality to the song.
Having sung in different languages, how would you describe the experience of singing in Malayalam?
Honestly, Malayalam is one of the most challenging languages I've sung in. Even though I'm used to recording in different Indian languages, Malayalam has a pronunciation that's incredibly nuanced. You don't just pronounce the words correctly; you have to make them feel natural and native. Thankfully, the lyric and language coordination team on I'm Game made me feel at home. They were so patient and guided me through every word and expression.
Dulquer Salmaan is largely popular as a romantic hero, and one can imagine your soft vocals going perfectly with his image. While recording the song, did you keep his image in mind?
While singing, I think about the character, the situation, and what the story needs emotionally. Having said that, Dulquer has such a natural charm and lovable screen presence that it complements a melody like Mazhavillaye.
What is in store ahead?
The first half of the year has been a building phase for me creatively. I recently started an independent chapter of my journey with my own imprint, and that's been fulfilling. We released a single called Gaya Kaam Se, which featured my fans in the music video and celebrated the bond we've built over the years. There's a lot more music on the way. Live shows continue to be a huge part of my journey too.
. âIlluminati' from âAavesham'
. âAsalayavale' from âKhalifa'
