MUMBAI: Since the movie 'Kabali' has hit the screens, tabloids have covered every possible area related to the South Indian phenomenon Rajnikanth's latest release – from the making to the box office collection. But beyond the numbers and figures, it’s the response from the people belonging to all walks of life that defines the Rajni fandom. And in today’s such example, we bring you Bengaluru-based rock act Peepal Tree’s tribute to the legend.

Bangalore is where it all began for the superstar, also called 'Thalaivar', and the city-s two-year-old band Peepal Tree could not help but express the love for the 65-year-old in ways they understand best. “For the first time, we have composed a song – tribute of sort – for any artist. In fact, Willy (the drummer) came in one day after the trailer of the movie released and suggested the idea to work on something related to Rajnikanth,” said the guitarist of the band, Tony Das.

The song, titled ‘Magazhchi’, is a four-minute-long ‘ode’ to the veteran actor, and the video virtually includes the ‘Rajnimaniacs’ trying their respective best to impersonate the legend’s theatrics. The lyrics, written by friend Muthamil, loosely translate to the actor’s supremacy and unparalleled popularity among the masses. Das – a malayali who spent most of his life in Dubai – acknowledged the drummer’s idea, and the four-piece band created the track out of sheer love for their idol.

Speaking on need to create the music video, Das replied, “We could have put up the composition on SoundCloud and everyone would have still listened to it. But, we all know, how effective music videos turn out to be. Everyone, who is watching, relates to the video. Plus, Lyrically, the song hails the actor as the “fire” that can never be extinguished or the “lion” like no one else.

Of course, anything that involves Rajnikanth tends to become a success, but Peepal Tree ensured its musicality or the original sound does not get compromised. With support from bassist as backing vocals, the band’s sound becomes heavier with the chorus, but shout out to bassist Praveen Biligiri for the groovy bassline without letting it affect the vocal contribution. And those who aren’t new to Peepal Tree wouldn’t be surprised with the grunge-esque vocal efforts through Sujay Harthi.

Peepal Tree would continue utilising the composition for its live performances henceforth. “Apart from that, it’d be business as usual,” confirmed the guitarist.