The Nightingale Sings - Solo

Desi Pundit, Films, India, Media, Music 4 Responses »
Sep 282009

Two years ago – i had blogged the bulk of this post. I am using it as a base and just refurbishing it with a few more favorites. Tomorrow, I will look at the duets. September 28th – The birthday of Lata Mangeshkar …. the woman with the golden voice.The first lady of Hindi film Music. For me, the last of the All India Radio generation , the lady and her music was a constant companion when I was growing up. Although in later years – i would think post the late 1980′s- her voice has lost much of the sweetness and melody, her body of work prior to that stands as testimony of her talent. On her birthday, I am going to take on a difficult task – the task of compiling my personal favourites sung by her. This is in no particular order of prefernce – just stuff that i enjoy listening to … the list will be divided into my favourite solo numbers & duets. Today is the list of the favourite solo numbers.

1) Aaj Phir Jeene ki Tamana Hai - the film Guide. A celebration of life. Picturised on Waheeda Rehman – a truly feminist song before the term feminist became popular in India



2) Aapki Nazron Ne Samjha – the film Anpadh. Lata Mangeshkar creates magic with Madan Mohan. Dharmendra looks hot, while Mala Sinha sings to him!



3)Barsaat Mein Humse Mile Tum Sajan – the all time classic. Lata and a chorus sing probably my favourite ‘falling in love’ song. Shailendra‘s lyrics are mind blowing ‘aaj mein tumhari huvi, tum mere sajan… tum mere sajan” and Shankar Jaikishen‘s music a herald of forthcoming greatness

4) Bada Natkhat Hai Yeh – Film Amar Prem – filmed on Sharmila Tagore. the film also starred Rajesh Khanna. Music R.D.Burman, lyrics Anand Bakshi. The film also had the other wonderful Lata solo – Raina Beeth Jaaye….

5) Choti, Choti si Baat — Film Choti Si Baat – music Salil Choudhary, lyrics Yogesh. A wistful song …Najane Kyon… hota hai yeh zindagi ke saath … achanak yeh dil .. .kissi ke jaane ke baad … kare phir uski yaad… choti choti si baat….na jane

6) Doondho Re Doondho – Film Ganga Jamuna – music Naushad lyrics, Shakeel Badauni. The song picturised an ethereal looking Vyjanti Mala singing about the joys of ‘suhaag raat’ with Dilip Kumar

7) Dua Kar Ghame Dil, Khuda se Duva Kar – from Anarkali. In a film full of great songs, including the popular ‘yeh zindagi usi ki hai’ – this song is my personal favourite. You can hear the duva in the voice.

8) Ja Ja Re Jaa, Balamva – Film Basant Bahar. I can’t remember too much about the film except that it stars Bharat Bhushan and everyone dies . But the sound track on this is amazing, so is this song.

9) Jago Mohan Pyare – from Jagte Raho – the sweetness and compassion in Lata’s voice, perfect with the melody by Salil Choudhary and lyrics by  PremDhawan.

10) Jadugar Saaiya - from the film Nagin – a sweet love song, where the woman implores her lover to let her go as it is getting late. Hemant Kumar, Shailendra and Lata once again create magic.

11) Kahi Deep Jale Kahi Dil - Music Director Madan Mohan, lyrics by Raja Mehdi Ali Khan and a truly eerie number. For me, it works better as a ‘haunted’ song than Ayega Aanewal from Mahal and Aajare Pardesi from Madhumati.

12) Mausam hai Ashiqana – superb wistfulness and longing in this song from Pakeezah. I personally prefer this song to the more popular ‘chalte chalte’ or ‘inhi logone’

13) Mora Gora Ang Laile – in my list of the most erotic songs in Hindi films ever. Lyrics by a very young Gulzar and music by Sachin Dev Burman


14) Na Jiya Lage Na – Film Anand – Salil Choudhary, Gulzar and Lata Mangeshkar. A great combination of melody, lyrics and voice.

15) Nainon Mein Badra Chaaye – Film : Mera SayaLata & Madan Mohan – and an incredible semi classical composition. A superb rain song….

16) Pyaar Kiya to Darna Kiya – Lata Mangeshkar in this defiant anthem in Moghul-e-Azam. Music Naushad

17) Raaton Ke Saaye Ghane- Film Annadata – music Salil Choudhary. I haven’t seen the film but it has a powerhouse of a sound track.

18)Rajnigandha Phool Tumhare — Film Rajnigandha, Salil Chodhary, Yogesh and Lata Mangeshkar get together to create magic.

19) Rukh Ja Raat – Lata singing for Meena Kumari in Dil ek Mandir and trying to stop the moon set with the power of her voice.

20) Saaware Saaware - from the film Anuradha. Music by Ravi Shankar and a breathless pace that transverses scale. Lata’s complete mastery of Raga’s and melodies comes to the forefront in this song.



21) Vande Mataram - from the film Ananda Math – Music by Hemant Kumar, Lyrics by Bankim Chandra Chaterjee. The ultimate call to battle song. Fight for this country, it is yours and so beautiful….And Lata’s rendition of this song makes it my favourite. It nudges out other ‘patriotic’ numbers like Ay Mere Vatan ke Logon … .

Which are yours.?

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Happy Birthday Asha Bhosle

Desi Pundit, Films, India, Music 7 Responses »
Sep 082009

Asha Bhosle is like good wine. she has gotten better with age :) And today on her birthday – here are some of the songs that i would take away with me to a desert island !

The list is in, more or less, alphabetical order. If you are reading this in my FB notes – please note that FB doesn’t (or i haven’t figured how it does) pull embedded videos on blog posts – so to hear the music – you can cut and paste on youtube or come to my site (shameless plug) :)

Aage Bhi Jaane Na Tu - The film is Waqt – the music by O.P.Nayyar Ravi- thanks dhubha – and lyrics by Sahir Ludhianvi . The first of the great lost and found sagas – the film had Ae Meri Zohar Zabin as its other great hit

Aao Huzur Tumko
Music, again, by O.P.Nayyar- for whom Ashatai sang some of her most well known songs- lyrics by Noor Devasi . The film is Kismat. The song is picturised on a Babita who is trying to seduce Biswajit under the influence of fermented Rooh Afza . The film had other great songs like kajra mohobat wala (asha & s, lakhon hein yahan dilwale.

two pieces of trivia here – Babita is the mother of Karishma & Kareena Kapoor ; and the director is Manmohan Desai of Amar Akbar Anthony fame !

Aayiye Meherban

Picturised on Madhubala, the film is Howrah Bridge – and the music director is O P Nayyar and lyrics are by Hasrat Jaipuri.

Bhanwara Bada Nadan Haye

The film is Sahib, Biwi aur Ghulam – directed by Abrar Alvi – not by Guru Dutt as popularly assumed – he was the film’s producer and lead actor. The music is by Hemant Kumar and the lyrics are by Shakeel Badayuni. The film that starred Rehman – as the Sahib, Meena Kumari as the Biwi and Guru Dutt as the Ghulam – is a claustrophobic tale of zamindars and their women -And, the quest of the wife for her husband’s attention that has disastrous consequences !
Asha is playback for Waheeda Rehman in this song

Asha has another great song in this film, and that is for Minoo Mumtaz

Saqiya Aaj Mujhe Neend Nahin

Chain se humko kabhie

the film is Pran Jaye Par Vachan na Jaye – music by O.P. Nayyar.

Chhota Sa Baalama

The film is Ragini. The music director is O.P.Nayyar – and the lyricist is Qamar Jalalabadi.

Dum Maro Dum

Yes – let’s all get high to possibly one of the greatest songs ever that celebrates pot culture. this is clapton and marley rolled (pardon the pun) into one. If this song had been composed today – some nutcase unit would have gone on rampage to get it banned. But, this was the swinging 70′s and Hare Krishna Hare Ram was a superduper hit, with no theater getting burnt :)

Music was by R.D.Burman, and Lyrics were by Anand Bakshi.
the song is picturized on Zeenat Aman (who wasn’t the heroine of this film, Mumtaaz was) and a whole bunch of hippies.

Jaiye Aap Kahan Jayenge
The film was Mere Sanam. Music by O.P.Nayyar and lyrics by Majrooh.

The film starred Biswajeet and Asha Parekh and had two great Asha numbers this and the one after this !

Yeh Hai Reshmi Zulfon Ka

Here is Asha Parekh trying to seduce Biswajeet – who shows all the charisma and sex appeal of a cold idli !

Jahan Mein Aisa Koun Hai

The film is Hum Dono. Music is by Jaidev
The movie has some of the best songs in Hindi films including Abhi Na Jao Chod Kar, Allah tero Naam, and Mein zindagi ka saath nibhata chala gaya !

Kaali Ghata Chhaye

The film is Sujata. Music is by S.D.Burman and lyrics by Majrooh.

The director is Bimal Roy – the film touches the issue of unapproachability. Sujata is a untouchable girl brought up in a Brahmin home – and falls for Sunil Dutt, who croon jalte hain jiske liye to her on the phone !. It is about the ‘stigma’ and the taunts that Sujata has to face while growing up.
The name Sujata itself is a pun – Su being good, and jata – being caste (fem).

Katra Katra

The film is Ijazat – a very, very grown up love story starring Nasiruddin Shah, Rekha and Anuradha Patel.

Music is by R.D.Burman, and lyrics by Gulzar.

Man Kyon Behka Re
The film is Utsav – based on the life of the courtesan Vasantsena. The song is a duet between Asha and her older sister Lata Mangeshkar.

Music is by Lakshmikant Pyarelal, and lyrics by Vasant Desai.

Trivia – the film is responsible for inflicting Shekar Suman on an unsuspecting world :)

Mohe Kanha

The film is Sardari Begum – the life of a courtesan that won Kiron Kher her national award. The music is by Vanraj Bhatia

Raat Akeli Hai

Man, can she move across scales without a hitch ! I marvel at her voice control.
The film is Jewel Thief – the actress is Tanuja – mother to Kajol and she is trying to seduce Dev Anand – who is resisting :)

Music is by S.D.Burman and lyrics are by Majrooh

Tanha Tanha
And, finally – the song that only she could sing. Picturised on Urmilla and Jackie Shroff – the film is Rangeela , music is by A.R.Rehman and lyrics are by Mehboob.

These are some of my favorites. what are yours ?

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Classical Kishore

Desi Pundit, Films, India, Media, Music 26 Responses »
Aug 062009

Lazy blogging. Yesterday, was Kishore Da’s birthday. and, i thought i will re-cycle last year’s post on classical Kishore- (origianl post August 16th 2008)

Kishore Kumar was a genius. And, it was his birthday about 10 days ago (4th August) yesterday . I had wanted to do a little blog piece on my favourites sung by him. But, there were so many of them, and it was so difficult to make a choice that I went into some sort of a analysis paralysis. And then, about 5 days ago it struck me. Classical Kishore. We all know about the rock & Roll Kishore (hum to mohobbat karega), and the playful Kishore (eena meena dika) and the Romantic Kishore (Phoolonke rang se) – but somehow – despite a solid body of work based on Classical Ragas – we consider him to be a singer purely of fun and contemporary work…But, KK had a fair body of work that was classical.

So here goes my favourite Kishore numbers based on Classical Ragas – again in no particular order of preference ( i love them all) …

1) Aap Ke Anurodh Pe - Kishore’s voice glides effortlessly through the scales. The composition is in Raga Yaman . The film is Anurodh – starring Rajesh Khanna. I have faint memories of the film and all I can remember is two good songs and terribly boring inbetweens ! Music is by Laxmikant Pyarelal, and lyrics by Anand Bakshi

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Other great film songs in this Raga include -Aansoo Bhari Hai (Parvarish);Na Jaao Saayiaan (Sahib, Bibi aur Ghulam)

2) Pagh Ghungroo Bandh – Kishore Kumar having fun singing for Amitabh Bachchan in Namak Halal. Music is by Bappi Da and lyrics by Anjaan. The Raga is Darbari Kanara. The film was a fun outing about missing identity, treasures, duty, loyalty and a incredible rain dance by Amitabh and Smita Patil.

3) Mere Naina Sawan Bhadon – Kishore Kumar in a wistful mood singing this compositon in Raga Shivranjani. The song has another version by Lata Mangeshkar, but I always preferred this variation. Music is by R.D.Burman and lyrics by . The film is Mehbooba starring Rajesh Khanna & Hema Malini.

Other famous Hindi Film songs in the same Raga are Dil Jalta Hai by Mukesh from Pehli Nazar, O Duniya Ke Rakhwaale by Rafi for Baiju Bawra

4) Khilte Hai Gul Dil Yahaan – based on Raga Bhimalpaasi, this song is also sung separately by Lata Mangeshkar, but once again I prefer the Kishore version of it. Music is by S.D.Burman, lyrics by Neeraj. The film is about twins – one good and one evil (played by Rakhee) who both fall for Shashi Kapoor. The film is a good romantic thriller with a great sound track.

Check out the fabulous Naino Me Badra Chhaye from Mera Saaya – its in the same Raga.

5) Koi Humdum Na Raha – Film is Jhumroo. I haven’t seen the film, but i kind of like the song. The composition is based on Raga Jhinjhinoti.

other famous songs in this raga are Ja Ja Re Ja Balamwa from the film Basant Bahar sung by Lata and Kya Se Kya Ho Gaya from Guide sung by Rafi.

6) Tere Mere Milan ki Yeh Raina – a duet in Raga Khamaj sung by Kishore and Lata. The story is about two talented people who marry in haste, only to find that the husband’s ego (abhimaan) at her being more acclaimed leading to a fissure in the relationship. Againa a sound track with songs like Meet na Mila re Manka, Teri bindiyaa, Nadiyaan Kinare.

Another great Kishore song in this Raga is from Amar Prem – the fabulous Kuch to Log Kahenge

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Other famous songs in this Raga are O Sajna by Lata from Parakh, Aise to na Dekho by Rafi from Teen Deviyaan.

7) Payal Wali Dekhna – Raga Maru Bihaag. Film Ek Raaz.He sings for himself on screen. I haven’t seent this film either.


Other famous songs based on this Raga are Meethe Bol Bol by Lata and Bhupinder in Kinara and the next song which is also by Kishore Kumar

8) Zindagi ke Safar Mein Bichar Jaaate Hai - film is Aap ki Kasaam. Starring Rajesh Khanna, Mumtaz and Sanjeev Kumar. A film about love, envy, jealousy and break down. A fabulous sond track. Other gems in this film include Jai Jai Shiv Shankar, Aap Ki Kasam

9) Jeevan Se Bhari – A whimsical Kishore in this great song from the film Safar. The film stars Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore. For its times it was a seriously grown up love story. The Raga is Rageshwari.


Other famous songs based on this raga are Nain So Nain Nahi Milao, and Na Jiya Lage Na from Anand.

10) Woh Shyaam Kuch Ajeeb Thi - The film is Khamoshi – starring Rajesh Khanna, Waheeda Rehman and Dharmendra. The story is of a nurse in a psychiatrist ward and her relationship with her charges. Somehow I think that they made better films in those days than they do now. And a great sound track. One of my all time favourites. The Raga is Yaman.

11) Meri Bhigi Bhigi Si - Kishore sings this great composition based on the Raga Kirvani.The film is Anaamika staaring Sanjeev Kumar and Jaya Bhaduri.
Music is by R.D.Burman lyrics by Majrooh Sultanpuri

Other great Kishore Kumar classical hits are Karvatein Badalte Rahe (Aap Ki Kasaam) in Raga Pahadi; Kanchi re Kanchi (Hare Rama Hare Krishna) in the same Raga; Kaise kahe Hum Pyaar ne Humkse, Kya Kya Khel Rachaye (Sharmilee) in Raga Tilang; Choo kar mere man Ko (Yaarana) – Raga yaman; Is Mod se Jaate Hai (Aandhi) – Raga Yaman.
if i have got any of the ragas wrong (quite likely) do let me know !

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Happy Birthday - Manna De

India 6 Responses »
May 022009

Manna De turned 90 yesterday – the 1st of May. Compared to Mohd. Rafi or Kishore Kumar – he didn’t sing as much for Hindi films, but the songs that he sang left a mark.

It’s been a long time since i put together a compilation of songs, in a way my music hearing has been predominantly Hindustani Classical Music. Manna De, more than any other Hindi singer – was completely at ease with the classical form.

Here in no order of preference, are some of my favourite songs sung by Manna De. if you have your favourites, please post them

1) Yeh Raat Bhigi Bhigi - Mukesh is said to be the voice of Raj Kapoor, but i personally preferred the duets that Manna De sang for him with Lata. Be it this, or Pyaar huva or Aaja Sanam …. Shankar Jaikishen composed the music, and the film is Chori Chori . The guitar as the prelude is possibly one of the most distinctive pieces of Hindi film music. i need to hear two chords to identify the song. Enjoy Raj Kapoor & Nargis in this brilliant composition.

2) Tu Pyaar ka Saagar Hai – I used to have this huge crush on Balraj Sahani when i was a kid. in those glorious days of watching Chitrahaar and Hindi films on Doordarshan. I could never understand his films in those days – but i simply thought he looked yummmm :) i still do. and of all his songs, this one was played the most frequently. Soul stirring stuff. Balraj Sahani & Nutan in the film Seema. Music by Shankar Jaikishen.

3) Kaun Aaya mere Dil ke Dwaare – I cannot remember watching this film, though i must i have. i devoured everything on Doordarshan whether it was Krishi Darshan or Santakukdi or Kilbil … Anoop Kumar (Kishore Kumar’s brother) and Anita Guha in Dekh Kabira Roya. Music by Madan Mohan

4) Dil Ki Girah Khol Do – the film “Raat aur Din”. The subject multiple personality disorder. The year 1967. And a commercial success. Nargis in her last leading role. Fabulous film. Fabulous music. Watch it also for a very young Feroze Khan. Music Shankar Jaikishen

5) Ja Tose Nahin Bolu Kanhaya – Raga Hamsadhwani. Lata Mangeshkar & Manna De. The movie is Parivaar and the music director is Salil Choudhary .

6) Hoke Majboor Mujhe - The film Haqeeqat. Possibly the finest war film ever made in India. From the point of view of the men who serve. Directed by Chetan Anand it starred Balraj Sahni (him again), Dharmendra and a host of others it is set around the 1962 war – which no one talks about. The song ‘kar chale ham fida jaan aur tan saathiyo’ by Rafi is guaranteed to bring tears to your eyes. But, this song, more philosophical is equally good. Check out Manna De in this

7) Mausam Beeta Jaye – The film “Do Bhiga Zamin”, the director Bimal Roy. Music Salil Choudhary. Actor Balraj Sahni and the voice Manna De. I cry everytime is see this film – nothing has changed for the farmer. When we decided to make our film “Jhing Chik Jhing” i went and rewatched this film — the famers’ lot is the same. there is a line in Jhing Chik Jhing where Bharat Jadhav says ‘we are farmers, we grow food but our children go hungry; we grow cotton and our kids wear torn clothes’. This is not the post to call for agricultral reform or greater support to farmers, but consider it said :( .

By the way, despite the subject this was not an art film. it was a commercially viable film .

8) Zindagi kaisi yeh Paheli - Manna De sings for Rajesh Khanna – a man with a medical death sentance. the music by Salil Da. The film Anand. Lyrics by Yogesh.

9) Laga Chunri Mein Daag – Music by Roshan (grandfather to Hrithik ). The film is Dil Hi to Hai starring Raj Kapoor and Nutan

10) Pucho na Kaise Man - The film was hackneyed but the music was great. Staring Ashok Kumar in a triple role , the film is Meri Surat Teri Aankhen. Music by S.D.Burman

11) Sur Na Saje Kya Gaaon Mein - the film Basant Bahar. music by Shankar Jaikishen – who hitherto had been considered to be ‘pop’ music composers without a handle on classical – and how they proved the world wrong. Starring Bharat Bhushan who possibly had some of the best classical songs featured on him. The other great song in this film is Ketki Gulab Juhi sung by Manna De and Bhimsen Joshi !

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Posted by gargi at 8:09 am Tagged with: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Monsoon Melodies

Films, India, Music 19 Responses »
Jun 122008

It is Monsoons The streets look washed. There skies look silver and grey. The trees are swaying. The air smells fresh. There is a cool breeze that refreshes. The world looks great.

The monsoons have always been my favourite season. Traffic jams, water logging not withstanding — the moment i see a rain cloud my heart sings. The smell of fresh earth at this time of the year drives away any irritation at being stuck indoors. I am known to do silly things like walk in the rain to get wet …. it is almost like the rain is renewing me along with renewing the earth.

And of course, there is hot masala chai, pakodas – grandma used to make these great rava pakodas – and hindi film music. There is not much else you need in life :) .

My favourite rain songs from Hindi films — in no particular order of preference

Aaj Rapat Jaaye to Hame Na Uthayo – Amitabh Bachchan and Smita Patil sizzle in this rain song from Namak Halal. Making out on a hand cart never seemed more appealing :) . Brilliant music by Bappi Lahri and great lyrics by Anjaan.

Barsaat Mein Humse Mile Tum Sajan – A very young Lata Mangeshkar singing for a even younger Nargis. The film is the classic Barsaat. Music by Shankar Jaikishen, lyrics by Shailendra.



Dil Tera Deewana Hai Sanam - Thunder, Lightening and Rain seem to be a good combination for hormones to start acting up. In this song Shammi Kapoor declares undying love for Mala Sinha. The film is Dil Tera Deewana. Music is by Shankar Jaikishen, Lyrics are by Shailendra

Dum Dum Diga Diga – from the movie Chaliya. The director was Manmohan Desai – who gave blockbuster hits like Amar Akbar Anthony, Naseeb, Dharam Veer etal. It was loosely based on Dostovesky’s White Nights but set in the post Partition refugee space. Nutan and Raj Kapoor Star. Rehman has a wonderful cameo as Nutan’s husband. Music is by Kalyanji Anandji, and lyrics by Qamar Jalalabadi.

Ek Ladki Bhigi Bhagi Si – Kishore Kumar and Madhubala and a broken down car. The chemistry between the actors is sweet and playful. An indicator of a much more innocent era. Music by SD Burman, lyrics by Majrooh Sultanpuri.

Ghanana Ghanana Ghir – The fabulously energetic rain song from Lagaan. A.R.Rehman as his best. The song is relief, joy, yearning, all melded together with great melody, rythmn and a folksy quality that translates to the people’s link to rain. Lyrics are by Javed Akhtar

Koi Ladka Hai - from the film Dil to Pagal hai. The song has a great sense of innocence and reflects a great sense of the joy of life that has been rejuvenated by rains. The singers are Lata Mangeshkar and Udit Narayan. Music is by Uttam Singh and lyrics by Anand Bakshi. SRK and Madhuri and a gaggle of kids feature in this feel good song on the rains.

Mujhe Jaan Na Kaho Meri Jaan – a lovely romantic song by Geeta Dutt. Music is by Kanu Roy and Lyrics are by Gulzar. There is something about a rain drenched Mumbai and romance. The film features Sanjeev Kumar and Tanuja and their post marital ups and downs. The film is Anubhav and the director is Basu Bhattacharya who has the recurrent thread of marital discord running through his films.

O Sajna Barkha Bahar Aayi – Lata Mangeshkar at her sweetest best for this song from the Bimal Roy film Parakh. Music by Salil Choudhary.

Rhim Jhim Gire Sawan - there are two variations of this song, one by Lata Mangeshkar – featured on Amitabh Bachchan – who looked so yummy in this song – & Moushmi Chaterjee and Mumbai in the rains. and the other by Kishore Kumar. The film is Manzil, the music is by R.D.Burman, and lyrics by Yogesh ( not Majrooh Sultanpuri as posted earlier. Thankyou Vinay)

.


The Kishore Kumar variant.
and the Lata Mangeshkar variant


Zindagi Bhar Nahi Bhooli woh Barsaat ki Raat – Bharat Bhushan serenading a woman he met in the rain. And, a very wet Madhubala is the object of his music. The music is by Roshan Sahaab, and lyrics by Sahir Ludhianvi. The movie is Barsaat ki Raat.

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Manna De - Happy Birthday

Films, India, Media, Music 6 Responses »
May 042008

The 1950's and 1960's possibly had the best in terms of musical talent in the Hindi Film Industry. The kind of music that was created was superlative by any standards. And, there was choice – there was classical, rock, jazz, folk, fun, … the lot. Amongst the greats of this era was Manna Dey. Not as prolific as either Mohammed Rafi or Kishore Kumar, he managed however to sing some of the best songs in Hindi films. May 1st was his birthday. Here are some of my favourite songs from his repertoire.

a) Yeh Raat Bhigi Bhigi - a lovely romantic duet from the film Chori Chori, starring Raj Kapoor & Nargis. sung by Manna Dey and Lata Mangeshkar, the music is by Shankar Jaikishen & lyrics by Shailendra. Although Mukesh was considered the definitive voice of Raj Kapoor, the duets by Manna Dey were all superaltive. There are two other songs from this film – Jahan Mein Jaati hoon vahi Chale aate ho, and Aaja Sanam Madhur Chandini Mein hum, and two from Shree 420 – Pyaar Huva Ikraar Huva and Mud Mud Ke na Dekh … which are in my list of top songs of all times.

b) Na to Karvan Ki Talaash Hai - My favourte Qawalli from Hindi Films. Manna Dey, Asha Bhonsle, Mohd. Rafi and others. The song runs for almost 10 minutes. Manna De opens the classic piece and Rafi ends it… both are at their best in this song. Roshan Sahab (the father of Rakesh & grand father of Hrithik) composes a masterpiece, lyrics are by Shailendra –

c) Zindagi Kaise Hai Paheli - Manna De in the film Anand, singing for Rajesh Khanna. the muisc director is Salil Choudhary and lyrics are by Yogesh. The film is about a cancer patient, who has no hope of survival and the joy that he brings to people in his life. Possibly Rajesh Khanna’s best performance. The soundtrack is full of gems – Na Jiya Lage Na, Meine Tere Liye Hi saath rang ke sapne chune, Kahi Door Jab Din Dhal Jaye

d) Kaun Aaya Mere Dil Ke Dwaare – Manna Dey sings for Anoop Kumar (trivia – Anoop Kumar is the brother of Ashok Kumar & Kishore Kumar) for the film Dekh Kabira Roya. The film, despite its name, is a comedy. A story of three struggling men and their quest for their muses. Music in the film is by Madan Mohan and lyrics by Rajendra Kishen

e) Pucho Na Kaise Man Rain Bitaye – the film is Meri Soorat Teri Ankhen, the song is picturised on Ashok Kumar. The music is by S.D.Burman and lyrics by Shailendra. The story is about an disfigured abandoned child, who grows up to be a disfigured singer (Ashok Kumar). And, then he falls in love with Asha Parekh !

f) Ketaki Gulab Juhi - a duet with Pandit Bhimsen Joshi. The song is a competition between the two singers, and in typical Hindi Film ishtyle … Pandit Bhimsen Joshi loses. If your mind can overcome this fact… listen to the song…


The other great Manna Dey number from this film is Sur Na Saje, Kya Gaoon Mein.

g) Tu Pyaar Ka Saagar Hai - I always had a crush on Balraj Sahani – and in a way I still do. Everytime I see him on screen, my heart flutters, it truly does. And, it flutters a lot more in this song than in his other on screen appearances. Although, this song is sung as a Bhajan, for me it was a love song … which Balraj Sahni is singing to Nutan. Music by Shankar Jaikishen, Lyrics, Shailendra.

h) Laga Chunri Mein Daag - the film is Dil Hi to Hai. Music by Roshan & Lyrics by Sahir Ludhianvi. The song is picturised on a very bearded Raj Kapoor. The film is about mistaken identity, honour, love and misunderstandings … in short it could be any Hindi film except that Roshan’s music lifts it above its own mediocrity.

i) O Meri Zohra Zabeen – the Film is Waqt – the first of the last and found sagas …. The song is picturised on Balraj Sahni (be still my fluttering heart),the music is by Ravi and lyrics by Sahir Ludhianvi.

j) Phir Kahi Koi Phul Khila - the film is Anubhav – a complicated tangle of marital relationships. It has a wonderful sound track. Other classics in this film include the brilliant number by Geeta Dutt – Mujhe jaan na Kahon, meri Jaan. The film stars Sanjeev Kumar and Tanuja as the newly married couple with more than than their share of problems.

k) Mud Mud ke Na Dekh Mud Mud Ke – Asha and Manna De in this fabulous number from Shree 420. Picturised on Nadira & Raj Kapoor. The music is by Shankar Jaikishen and lyrics by Shailendra. The film is about a young idealist Raj Kapoor, who is seduced by wealth, fame and fortune – represented by Maya (nadira) … and brought back to the straight and narrow (not to mention poverty) by Vidya. The song marks the turning point in the film when Raj Kapoor goes over to the evil side….


And, here is Raj Kapoor with Vidya (Nargis) in one of the most famous songs of Hindi Films

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Posted by gargi at 2:33 pm Tagged with: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Nightingale Sings…Duets

India, Music 6 Responses »
Sep 292007

On her birthday, my favourite Lata Mangeshkar duets. She has sung with practically everyone and his cousin in her eons that she has ruled the roost of Hindi Film Music

  • Chod Gaye Balam – Lata and Mukesh voicing for a very young Nargis and Raj Kapoor. Film – Barsaat. The pangs of separation done beautifully well. Music Shankar Jaikishen, lyrics Shailendra
  • Itna na Mujhse Pyaar Bada – Film Chhayawith Talat Mahmood. Music by Salil Choudhary and Lyrics by Rajinder Kishen.Sunil Dutt and Asha Parekh on screen. One of the sweetest love songs ….
  • Yeh Raat Bhighi Bhigi – film Chori Chori – possibly my favourite Raj Kapoor & Nargis duet. Lyrics by Hasrat Jaipurand Music by Shankar Jaikishen. An adaptation of ‘It Happened one Night , the film has an incredible set of songs – including the other Lata / Manna De duet – Aaja Sanam Madhur Chandini Mein Hum…
  • Jhoole Mein Pawan Ki Aayi Bahar – a very young Bharat Bhushan and an even younger Meena Kumari in this classic from Baiju Bawra. Music Naushad, lyrics Shakeel Badayuni
  • Zindagi Bhar Nahi Bhoolegi woh Barsaat ki Raat – Mohd. Rafi, Lata and sheer magic. Music by Roshan, Lyrics by Sahir Ludhianvi. Madhubala, Bharat Bhushan and one of the best music in films. the whole album is a trip.
  • Chupa Lo yo Dil Mein Pyaar Mera – film Mamta – music Roshan, lyrics Majrooh. I honestly cannot remember if it was filmed on Ashok Kumar&Suchitra Sen or Dharmendra & Suchitra Sen
  • Mein Chali, Mein Chali - with Mohd. Rafi – A great, flirty, young song picturised on Shammi Kapoor& Kalpana . A great fun film with a fabulous sound track. It contains the other Lata Rafi classic – Awaaz Dekhe Hume Tum Bulao .
  • Tasveer Tere Dil Mein, Jis Din se Utara Hai - with Mohd. Rafi – for Mala Sinha & Dev Anand. A very tender, sweet song. Salil Choudhry & Majrooh Sultanpuri get together to create magic.
  • Aaja Re, Ab Mera Dil Pukare – with Mukesh for the film Aah. Nargis & Raj Kapoor Star. Shankar Jaikishen & Hasrat Jaipuri compose the music and lyrics. Soulful, melodious and terribly sad
  • Ajee Chale Aoo – Film Halaku, with sister Asha Bhonsale. Music Shankar Jaikishen, lyrics Shailendra. Lata did a fair few number of duets with both her sisters in songs as diverse as Aplam Chaplam (Azad) and Sare Shehar mein ek hasin hai (Alibaba aur 40 chor).
  • Loote Koi Man ka Nagar – with Manhar. The film is Abhimaan. Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bahduri star in this fabulous film about a man who becomes jealous of his wife’s success. Other great Lata duets in this film are Teri Bindiya Re (with Rafi) and Tere Mere Milan ki yeh Raina (with Kishore Kumar0. Music by the great S.D.Burman and lyrics by Majrooh Sultanpuri
  • Dil Ki Girah Khol Do – with Manna De. The film Raat aur Din. Nargis’ last role. Music Shankar Jaikishen & Lyrics Shailendra. The song is picturised on Nargis and a very young Feroze Khan. The film is a classic.
  • Aaj Madhosh Huva Jali Re -with Kishore Kumar in the film Sharmilee. Rakhee plays twins, one good and one bad – and Shashi Kapoor plays the man who is in love with one of them. But which one ? Music – S.D.Burman, lyrics by Neeraj
  • Is Mod Se Jate Hain - with Kishore Kumar. for the film Andhi -with Sanjeev Kumar & Suchitra Sen – lyrics by Gulzar and music by R.D.Burman. One of the best ‘relationship films ever made. And there is something about this song that puts it above the other two classics – Tere Bina Zindagi, and Tum Aa Gaye Ho.
  • Aapke Aankhon Mein Kuch – with Kishore Kumar. The golden team of R.D.Burman and Gulzar team up for Ghar. This is a duet between Vinod Mehra and Rekha. The movie looked at how rape impacts the relationship of a happily married couple.

  • Kya Yahi Pyar Hai - with Kishore Kumar. Film Rocky. A gangly Sanjay Dutt and a gaucheTina Munim wondering about love. Music – R.D.Burman and lyrics by Anand Bakshi
  • Gir Gaya Jhumka – with Kishore Kumar – Film Jugnu. Music S.D.Burman, lyrics Anand Bakshi . A radiant Hema Malini and a rugged Dharmendra, flirt (like crazy) in this song.
  • Aur Chabi Kho Jaaye – with Shailendra Singh – Film Bobby. The debut film of both Rishi Kapoor & Dimple Kapadia. Music by Laxmikant Pyarelal, check out their other great duets including one in this movie – Jhoot Bhole Kaava Kate,
  • Beeti Na Bitaye Raina – with Bhupinder. Film Parichay. R.D. & Gulzar. this combination got together again for Kinara – for the brilliant Meethe Bole Bol and Naam Gum Jayega; and Mausam – the fabulous Dil Doondtha Phir Wahi
  • Zihale Masti Makum Barnajish- Film Ghulami – a great folk number with a whole host of stars and Rajasthan looking incredible. With Shabbir Kumar. Music Laxmikant Pyarelal

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Posted by gargi at 11:20 pm Tagged with: , , , , , , ,

The Nightingale Sings…Solo

Films, Media, Music 6 Responses »
Sep 282007

September 28th – The birthday of Lata Mangeshkar …. the woman with the golden voice.The first lady of Hindi film Music. For me, the last of the All India Radio generation , the lady and her music was a constant companion when I was growing up. Although in later years – i would think post the late 1980′s- her voice has lost much of the sweetness and melody, her body of work prior to that stands as testimony of her talent. On her birthday, I am going to take on a difficult task – the task of compiling my personal favourites sung by her. This is in no particular order of prefernce – just stuff that i enjoy listening to … the list will be divided into my favourite solo numbers & duets. Today is the list of the favourite solo numbers.

  • Barsaat Mein Humse Mile Tum Sajan – the all time classic. Lata and a chorus sing probably my favourite ‘falling in love’ song. Shailendra‘s lyrics are mind blowing ‘aaj mein tumhari huvi, tum mere sajan… tum mere sajan" and Shankar Jaikishen‘s music a herald of forthcoming greatness
  • Jago Mohan Pyare – from Jagte Raho – the sweetness and compassion in Lata’s voice, perfect with the melody by Salil Choudhary and lyrics by Prem Dhawan
  • Vande Mataram - from the film Ananda Math – Music by Hemant Kumar, Lyrics by Bankim Chandra Chaterjee. The ultimate call to battle song. Fight for this country, it is yours and so beautiful….And Lata’s rendition of this song makes it my favourite. It nudges out other ‘patriotic’ numbers like Ay Mere Vatan ke Logon…..
  • Jadugar Saaiya – from the film Nagin – a sweet love song, where the woman implores her lover to let her go as it is getting late. Hemant Kumar, Shailendra and Lata once again create magic.Saaware Saaware – from the film Anuradha. Music by Ravi Shankar and a breathless pace that transverses scale. Lata’s complete mastery of Raga’s and melodies comes to the forefront in this song.
  • Dua Kar Ghame Dil, Khuda se Duva Kar – from Anarkali. In a film full of great songs, including the popular ‘yeh zindagi usi ki hai’ – this song is my personal favourite. You can hear the duva in the voice.Ajeeb Dastan Hai Yeh – the film Dil Apna aur Preet Paraya – music by Shankar Jai Kishen, and the song filmed on Meena Kumari – with appropriate close ups of Raj Kumar and Nadira.
  • Aaj Phir Jeene ki Tamana Hai - the film Guide. A celebration of life. Picturised on Waheeda Rehman – a truly feminist song before the term feminist became popular in India
  • Kahi Deep Jale Kahi Dil - Music Director Madan Mohan, lyrics by Raja Mehdi Ali Khan and a truly eerie number. For me, it works better as a ‘haunted’ song than Ayega Aanewal from Mahal and Aajare Pardesi from Madhumati.
  • Mora Gora Ang Laile – in my list of the most erotic songs in Hindi films ever. Lyrics by a very young Gulzar and music by Sachin Dev Burman
  • Nainon Mein Badra Chaaye – Film : Mera SayaLata & Madan Mohan – and an incredible semi classical composition. A superb rain song….
  • Choti, Choti si Baat — Film Choti Si Baat – music Salil Choudhary, lyrics Yogesh. A wistful song …Najane Kyon… hota hai yeh zindagi ke saath … achanak yeh dil .. .kissi ke jaane ke baad … kare phir uski yaad… choti choti si baat….na jane kyon…
  • Rajnigandha Phool Tumhare — Film Rajnigandha, Salil Chodhary, Yogesh and Lata Mangeshkar get together to create magic.
  • Mausam hai Ashiqana – superb wistfulness and longing in this song from Pakeezah. I personally prefer this song to the more popular ‘chalte chalte’ or ‘inhi logone’
  • Na Jiya Lage Na – Film Anand – Salil Choudhary, Gulzar and Lata Mangeshkar. A great combination of melody, lyrics and voice.
  • Doondho Re Doondho – Film Ganga Jamuna – music Naushad lyrics, Shakeel Badauni. The song picturised an ethereal looking Vyjanti Mala singing about the joys of ‘suhaag raat’ with Dilip Kumar
  • Raaton Ke Saaye Ghane- Film Annadata – music Salil Choudhary. I haven’t seen the film but it has a powerhouse of a sound track.
  • Ja Ja Re Jaa, Balamva – Film Basant Bahar. I can’t remember too much about the film except that it stars Bharat Bhushan and everyone dies . But the sound track on this is amazing, so is this song.
  • Bada Natkhat Hai Yeh – Film Amar Prem – filmed on Sharmila Tagore. the film also starred Rajesh Khanna. Music R.D.Burman, lyrics Anand Bakshi. The film also had the other wonderful Lata solo – Raina Beeth Jaaye….
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Which are yours.?

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