Jasleen Royal's new single "Inaam," featuring Badshah and lyricist Ansh Chahal, is out now on all streaming platforms. In an exclusive conversation, Royal spoke about the song's emotional origins, its nearly year-long journey to release, and what surprised her most about bringing Badshah on board.
Royal, known for her work across Bollywood soundtracks and independent releases, said "Inaam" began as a deeply personal response to watching someone close to her struggle. "Someone I love was going through a very difficult time, I felt helpless and I didn't know what to say!" she said. "'Teri aankhon mein nami, main seh na sakun, saare tere gham main lelun...' And 'Inaam' was born."
The track took shape over an extended period. "This song was in the works for nearly a year," Royal said, recalling how she crossed paths with Ansh Chahal during that time. "I met Ansh Chahal, and this talented young lyricist insisted I read what he had written." Chahal, 18, went on to write the lyrics for "Inaam," marking a notable early credit for the young writer.
Badshah's involvement came later in the process, and by Royal's account, revealed an unexpected side of the rapper known largely for high-energy, party-driven hits. "When I made Badshah listen to it, he wanted to add a verse of his own," she said. "And that's when I saw vulnerable Badshah for the very first time!"
Royal also addressed why the song sat unreleased for so long before finally coming out. "When I had lost faith in myself, this song kept it all together," she said. "And we finally decided to let it find its way out. Sometimes other people's belief in you is all you need."
Asked who she made the song for, Royal pointed to listeners who have experienced love bound up with pain. "I'm hoping it finds the ones who know what it feels like to love someone to the point of pain," she said.
"Inaam" by Jasleen Royal featuring Badshah and Ansh Chahal is streaming now on all major platforms.
Tags:
Jasleen Royal
