An idea that was born 12 years ago in lyricist-singer Swanand Kirkire and musician Shekhar Ravjiani’s minds has reached its fruition today. The two have joined forces to create the independent album, Maati, which blends Kirkire’s lyrics and vocals with Ravjiani’s music. Today, the duo launched the first track, titled Piyarva, from the album.   
 
Remembering how it all started with an uneventful conversation, Kirkire said, “Around 12 years ago, Shekhar and I were sitting at a coffee shop on a rainy afternoon after finishing our work. We kept talking about making something of our own, something that didn’t have any other expectations attached to it. Somewhere in the middle of those conversations, Piyarva was born. There are songs that you write and release immediately, and then there are those that quietly stay with you. Piyarva was one of [the latter]. When I listen to it today, I can still feel something of that rainy afternoon when Shekhar and I first imagined it.”

Working with Ravjiani on the album has been a special experience for the artiste. Though they have known each other for long, it took them years to collaborate. He added, “Shekhar brings a beautiful musical sensitivity to everything he does.”