Expressions of Heart and Soul

Tribute to legends - Rafi & Shammi

2011-12-24T23:32:00.000-08:00

Friends, I have given my tribute to the two legends who kept the world enthralled with their unique combination of vigor, naughtiness, cuteness and oomph!

I hope you like this rendition and will not deprive me of your valuable feedback. Thank you very much!

Movie: Pagla Khain Ka (1970)
Music: Shankar-Jaikishan
Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri
Singer: Mohammed Rafi
Picturized on: Shammi Kapoor and Asha Parekh

Tum Mujhe Yun (Download)

Mohammed Rafi - Sweetness Personified

2011-07-31T22:06:00.001-07:00

Today is Rafi sahab's 31st anniversary! Anything that could be said about the legend has been said. I would be only be showing desperation if I said that I miss him tremendously. To me, the most amazing thing is that the sweetness of his voice grows more every time you hear one of his previously heard songs again!

Despite of my hectic schedule, I could not resist recording one of Rafi sahab's songs from the movie, Leader. Leader's music was scored by Naushad sahab and Dilip Kumar was the hero. Those who are fond of old Hindi movies know that this combination is the most lethal. Whether it is "Daagh", "Mela", "Deedaar", "Kohinoor, "Aan", "Ganga Jamuna", "Dil Diya Dard Liya", or "Raam aur Shyaam", most of the songs are unforgettable!

In my quest of learning, I learned a bit more about singing through Rafi sahab's song today and I am glad it was on his anniversary!

I like to thank Paras for providing the track of this wonderful song! I thank you all in advance for your time!

Song: Hum Hi Se Mohabbat
Movie: Leader (1964)
Lyrics: Shakeel Badayuni
Music: Naushad Ali
Original singer: Mohammed Rafi
Picturised on: Dilip Kumar & Vyjayantimala

Download "Hum Hi Se Mohabbat"

Gum Hai Kisi Ke (Rampur ka Lakshman)

2011-02-18T16:30:00.001-08:00

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"Gum Hai Kisi Ke Pyar Mein" is a beautiful song! A short tale of love and innocent feelings! It is written by Majrooh Sultanpuri, who was considered a dominating musical force and one of the finest lyricists of Hindi movie songs. When these lyrics are given to the giant singers like Lata and Kishore with a brilliant composition by RDB, the result can be nothing but pure delight! People love this song for its sheer simplicity and innocence! The short dialogs in between make this song even more loveable!

I have attempted this song with Deblina who is quite well known in the music blogging world for her excellent singing with emotions that carry depth and subtlety!

PS: "Gum Hai ..." video has been posted on my Facebook blog!

Song: Gum Hai Kisi Ke
Movie: Rampur Ka Laxman (1972)
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Music: RD Burman
Original singer: Kishore & Lata
Picturised on: Randhir Kapoor & Rekha

Download "Gum Hai Kisi Ke"

Pehla Nasha (Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar)

2011-02-15T12:53:00.001-08:00

I consider this as one of the most romantic duets from 90s. Even today, this song still holds the same charm as it did when it was originally created in 1992. Sung in soothing and calming voices of Udit Narayan and Sadhna Sargam, I present this to you with Sarada Bhagavatula. Sarada has done a wonderful job singing this in her enchanting voice and unique style.

Thanks in advance!

PS: "Pehla Nasha" video has been posted on my Facebook blog!

Song: Pehla Nasha Pehla Khumaar
Movie: Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992)
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Music: Jatin Lalit
Original singer: Udit Narayan & Sadhna Sargam
Picturised on: Amir Khan & Ayesha Jhulka

Download "Pehla Nasha"

Sarmistha - A resounding voice

2011-02-02T10:12:00.001-08:00

Sarmistha's name is not new to many Hindi music bloggers! She is a very well known name amongst bloggers at LaFango and recently at Muziboo! Sarmistha has an impeccable voice with bright and charming expressions and a unique style that is very mesmerizing! I have been quite impressed with her singing since I heard her the very first time. Hence, I am pleased to share her lovely voice with those who have not heard it yet.

Here, we are presenting a Hindi song with a touch of Western Country music! "Agar Main Kahun" is from the movie Lakshya! This is originally sung in the beautiful voices of Udit Narayan and Alka Yagnik. Music is composed by the 3-and-only Shankar-Ehsan-Loy team, and lyrics by none other than Javed Akhtar. In terms of style and listening experience, this song belongs to the same group as "Jaane Kyun Log Pyar" and "Wo Ladki Hai Kahan" both from Dil Chahta Hai. A beautiful exchange of dialogs between the boy and the girl which start with an argument and ends in a make up. Besides the amalgamation of music genres, this song is also challenging since it contains many emotions and expressions that cover romance, naughtiness, complaint, acknowledgement, and everything in between! Sarmistha and I both realize these challenges during recording and had an increased appreciation for the original song and the team.

I thank Sarmistha for singing this with me and also thank you all in advance for your time.

PS: A video has been posted on my Facebook page!

Song: Agar Main Kahun
Movie: Lakshya (2004)
Lyrics: Javed Akhtar
Music: Shankar Ehsan Loy
Original singer: Udit Narayan & Alka Yagnik
Picturised on: Hrithik Roshan & Preity Zinta

Download "Agar Main Kahun"

And the smile lives on ...

2010-12-24T19:25:00.001-08:00

For some crazy fans like me, Rafi sahab's angel-like smile is perhaps enough to feel contented! I often wonder how his charisma would be for those who were lucky enough to have been in his presence! "Truly heavenly" is perhaps an understatement.

In one of the interviews, when I heard Naushad sahab saying, "Rafi sahab ka naam rehti dunya tak rahe ga", I smiled and ignored his sentence as over-emotional and overly-passionate! However, several years later, thinking about it tonight, I find myself believing it ... and believing it strongly. Rafi sahab's voice still possesses the same magic. The same magic that melts the hearts and minds of listeners! The same magic that makes you feel truly happy and smile from the bottom of your heart! The same magic that gives you hope and optimism on a gloomy day!

Happy birthday to you, Rafi sahab!

Song: Pukaarta Chala Hun Main
Movie: Mere Sanam (1965)
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Music: OP Nayyar
Original singer: Mohammed Rafi
Picturised on: Biswajit Chatterjee & Asha Parekh

Download "Pukaarta Chala Hun Main"

Download "Pukaarta Chala Hun Main" (Remix version)

Munni Badnaam (Dabangg 2010)

2010-11-14T07:16:00.000-08:00

Paras and I have recorded a duet from Salman's movie Dabangg. Paras has done a fabulous job of singing it. Please do visit her blog where the audio is posted with the video link!

Thank you very much in advance!

Movie: Dabangg (2010)
Lyrics: Lalit Pandit
Music: Sajid-Wajid
Original singers: Mamta Sharma & Aishwarya Nigam
Picturised on: Malaika Arora Khan, Salman Khan & Sonu Sood

Ninna Nodalentho - exploring Kannada

2010-10-07T23:39:00.001-07:00

After my attempt at "Panivizhum" in November of 2006, I wanted to sing more songs in other regional languages of the subcontinent. Last year, I had a chance to sing a Kannada song and felt comfortable with the language. The words and their pronunciation was relatively easy. When Sarada brought my attention to "Ninna noDalentho" I could not resist. Its a bautiful song and working on it with Sarada was a pleasure. Again, like Ramesh who helped my with Tamil, she was very encouraging and provided all the help possible ... lyrics, translation, and pronunciation! Thanks Sarada!

Ninna noDalentho is from the movie "Mussanje Maathu" which revolves around the life of a Radio Jockey, Pradeep (Sudeep), who runs a radio programme called "Mussange Maathu" for depressed people. Tanu (Ramya) is a depressed girl who comes to Bangalore to live with her friend (Anu) and to find a new life. One day she calls Pradeep's radio programme and becomes very impressed by his suggestion. (Read more...)

Sarada has sung this song beautifully! After I created the video I was able to appreciate her singing even more as it sounded as if the heroine on the screen is singing the song herself. As usual, I have posted the high quality audio and video on my Facebook page so please visit there if you wish. As always, please leave your valuable comments!

Movie: Mussanje Maathu (2008)
Lyrics: Ram Narayan
Music: V. Sridhar
Original Singers: Sonu & Shreya
Picturized on: Sudeep & Ramya

Download "Ninna Nodalentho"

Pehle Pehle Pyar Ki (The Great Gambler - 1979)

2010-06-25T18:07:00.001-07:00

This is a light, romantic song! Kishore and Asha has sung many such wonderful songs and this is indeed one of those fun songs that makes you smile and hum for no particular reason! I like it because of its expressions! When it comes down to expressions, duets of Kishore & Asha can be considered some of the best! Talking to Deblina, I once mentioned that these were the singers who even delivered dialogs in "sur". The ease with which both singers have provided expressions is amazing!

Although, challenging to imitate, here is a humble attempt by Deblina and I. Please listen and provide your valuable comments when time permits! Also, here is the video link to the song!

Movie: The Great Gambler (1979)
Lyrics: Anand Bakhshi
Music: RD Burman
Original Singers: Kishore & Asha
Picturized on: Amitabh & Nitu Singh

Download "Pehle Pehle Pyar Ki"

Memoirs of a music junkie (continued)

2010-06-06T19:48:00.001-07:00

A couple more old recordings! Shah Rukh Khan was giving one blockbuster after another in 1990s. "Yess Boss" was another one of those. I enjoyed recording these two songs quite a bit.

Thanks for your time in advance!

Download "Main Koi Aisa Geet"

Download "Maine Socha Na Tha"

Memoirs of a music junkie

2010-05-14T12:24:00.000-07:00

It was the year 1997 or perhaps 1998. All I remember is that I was fresh out of college and had started working as an Engineer. Single life has its own merits and one of them was the availability of ample amount of extra time.

One of my dearest friends had just offered me to buy his complete entertainment center that included a top-notch Sanyo VCR, a Philip Magnavox television, and the state of the art AIWA stereo system with 5 speakers, 3-CD player, and a double cassette player unit. The CD player came with the Karaoke option to suppress the singers' voices while playing the CD. The mic input also came with the echo level adjustment option. But the best of all options was to be able to play a karaoke CD and record on the audio tape while singing through the microphone. Little I knew that this beautiful technology of ancient times (for technology more than 10 years is considered ancient nowadays) would change so many things in my life.

Anirudh of Anirudh Karaokes had also been to the same university that I went to. I met him when he was working on releasing his first karaoke CD. I actually bought a single karaoke song of a famous Pakistani singer Alamgir, for a show at school. By that time, he had come out with several of his CDs and unlike now, those CDs used to contain much greater number of songs than just 4 or 5.

I would look forward to get back to my little apartment on College street, often to find out that my dear friend and roommate Anshuman was already in the middle of a recording :D It was a lot of fun to record something and listen to your own voice. We used to buy high quality Maxell audio tapes which had a better retention capacity of the audio signal.

Well, to cut the story short for now. I am presenting one of those recordings today. This song is actually part of my first audio cassette release that I indeed distributed freely to all of my friends :D

A better quality version is also posted on my Facebook page. Thanks for your time in advance!

Sonu, Shreya, and Zoobi Doobi

2010-04-04T00:37:00.000-07:00

After a long time, a movie came that I could not get enough of. It makes you laugh, it makes you cry, it makes you think ... and think hard. Although the story of "3 Idiots" deal with the stale topic of being able to choose your own career and not the one shoved into your throat by your parents and other family members, the presentation of the message and issues that surround it are exemplary.

All songs compliment the movie very well. Each song in this movie is a gem. Usually I judge the success of songs when kids get hooked to it. And trust me, plenty of little kids have been hooked to songs in this movie, specially AAL IZ WELL, Zoobi Doobi, and their remixed versions.

Last but not least, Sonu and Shreya did it again! Zoobi Doobi is sung with such an assertion, confidence, and attitude that is very commendable! The style of this song reminded me of Mohammed Rafi, Kishore Kumar, Asha Bhosle, and the golden era of Hindi Film Industry. I truly felt both singers sang with a great level of comfort, joy, and command. Spectacular is the word that comes to mind.

This is an excited, yet humble attempt that Deblina and I made. I want to thank her for finishing this really fun project with me. I would appreciate your feedback very much.

PS: A much better quality of this song exists on my Facebook page (please see the link on the right side). Also, for more feedback and comments please visit Deblina's Muziboo page

Song: Zoobi Doobi
Movie: 3 Idiots (2009)
Lyricist: Swanand Kirkire
Music Director: Shantanu Moitra
Original Singer: Sonu & Shreya
Picturised On: Amir Khan, Kareena Kapoor

Download "Zoobi Doobi"

Romanticism unleashed ...

2010-03-25T10:31:00.001-07:00

This is one of the most romantic songs I have ever heard! The soothing, warming effect of this terrific song lasts for a long time. I had heard it in my teenage years and it has stayed with me since.

To make it even more unforgettable, it is originally sung by three best singers of our time, Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, and Mohammed Rafi. The song begins with the deep and dreamy voice of Kishore Da who captivates your attention right from the start. Lata ji soon joins with her mesmerizing, honey-dripping delivery that is her and only her propensity. The intoxicating effect reaches its climax with the fervent, adoring, and unparalleled entry of Rafi sahab. And there is no way except surrendering to getting under an everlasting spell of this trio.

The song is from movie "Doosra Aadmi" starring Rishi Kapoor, Rakhee Gulzaar, Shashi Kapoor, and Neetu Singh. The movie also hosts a couple of other chart busters like "Aankhon Mein Kajal Hai" and "Nazron Se Keh Do" both of which are unforgettable Kishore-Lata duets.

I have sung Kishore Da's part with a certain disinclination since the original plan was to have another wonderful voice for that part. However, for now, you will have to bear with me throughout the song. Deblina has lent her beautiful voice for the female part that she has sung excellently. I thank her for helping me finish this song.

Song: Kya Mausam Hai
Movie: Doosra Aadmi (1977)
Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Music Director: Rajesh Roshan
Original Singer: Kishore, Lata, Rafi
Picturised On: Shashi Kapoor, Rakhee, Rishi Kapoor

FYI: My Facebook page had been blocked previously for visitors outside the US. It now has been updated and should be functional without any restrictions. Sorry for any inconveniences! Some of the MP3s there are of a better quality!

Lets meet Sarada Bhagavatula!

2010-03-08T13:40:00.000-08:00

I first met Sarada through our local Portland band, Tarana! Tarana needed female singers and Sarada was right there in the neighborhood to join for our 2009 Diwali show. Sarada is often quiet and a bit shy, however, she makes up for all of her silence as soon as she starts singing. Good, clean pronunciation of words that are emoted well! Before the show, she won everyone's heart by singing some of the most peppy, romantic, and difficult numbers such as Jaiyye Aap Kahan, Dil Cheez Kya Hai, and Aao Huzoor Tumko!

Sarada started learning Carnatic classical music from an early age. She also started singing on stage at an early age and participated in numerous concerts/shows including a few on All India Radio. She developed interest in light and film music later on and was an active and popular singer during college.

Her favorite artists are Mohd. Rafi , Asha Bhosle, Yesudas, Hariharan, Chitra, Shreya Ghoshal, Sonu Nigam, Udit Narayan to name just a few. Ilayaraja and AR Rahman are amongst her favorite composers.

Sarada has been living in Portland for almost 15 years with her husband Anil and two wonderful kids.

Coming to the song at hand, while "Tumhain Jo Maine Dekha" from the movie, Main Hun Na is not a show of Sarada's full vocal potential, it is a nice, upbeat, and relatively new song that easily grabs listener's attention. Sarada finished the song in a short time while providing excellent feedback for improvements. And now, here it is for your listening pleasure! Please do tell us about your thoughts on this effort.

Last but not least! Expressions of Heart & Soul is now also on Facebook! The ease of maintenance and convenience of interaction with family and friends helped me make the decision. "Become a Fan" button is an imposition I have been hesitant about but creating a fan page seemed to be the only way that allowed using music players (I could not add a music player to a Facebook Group).

Song: Tumhain Jo Maine Dekha
Movie: Main Hun Na (2004)
Original Singer: Abhijeet & Shreya
Music Director: Anu Malik
Lyricist: Javed Akhtar

Dono Ne Kiya Tha Pyaar - Mahua (1969)

2010-02-26T16:31:00.000-08:00

Song: Dono Ne Kiya Tha Pyaar
Movie: Mahua (1969)
Original Singer: Mohammed Rafi
Music Director: Sonik Omi
Lyricist: Qamar Jalalabadi

One of the reasons that masses still listen to Rafi sahab, Lata Ji and likes is their ability to transport the listener to a new state of mind - a state free from the limitations of time and space. I have had first-hand experiences of getting into trance by some of the songs. The feelings get so powerful that for a while you forget everything that makes up your surroundings and you get transported to a mystical place, which for a short time becomes reality (luckily I had not been driving during one of those experiences :D).

This is one such song! Listening to Rafi sahab's most amazing voice, I am not ashamed to admit that this song has made me cry. Simply and truly, out of this world!!!

The story of "Mahua" is about reincarnation. While playing his flute one day in the countryside, Brahmdesh, comes across a beautiful young woman. He is attracted to her and is told that her name is Mahua. When he is about to introduce himself, she stops him and calls him "Palash". When he clarifies that his name is Brahmdesh, Mahua tells him that they are lovers who were separated in a past life.

PS: During one of the online discussions, I boasted that if I had a chance to redo all of my songs I would. And while I have not cleaned up all of my old recordings, I have been doing whatever I could. This is also one such attempt. I recorded this song in 2006 (#3 in the multi-player list to your right) without using a sound editor and felt that I needed to redo it again in 2010!

Please lend an ear and let me know of your thoughts on this effort!

Tumse Milke - Main Hun Na (2004)

2009-12-13T19:35:00.000-08:00

Sonu Nigam has sung this song beautifully. I heard him perform this song live and he did an equally amazing job! While the original song featured Aftab and Hashim Sabri, sons of ustad Ghulam Ali Khan, Sonu's live performance included Amjad Sabri who is the son of very famous Qawwal Ghulam Fareed Sabri.

I am slightly hesitant to call this song a Qawwali since many elements of a qawwali are missing and the final product is more of a fusion of Western music, Qawwali and traditional Hindi film music. some may call it a modern Qawwali! Irrespective of what we decide to name this rendition, the fact is that it is an engaging one with Sonu's superb voice control and I have always loved it.

While recording, I had to act three voices for this song and I must admit it was a lot of fun. I also have taken the liberty to add some funky effects for the voice with English words.

I hope you will enjoy it. Please do leave your valuable feedback if time permits.

Song: Tum Se Mil Ke Dil Ka
Movie: Main Hun Na (2004)
Original Singer: Sonu Nigam
Music Director: Anu Malik
Lyricist: Javed Akhtar

Main Kahin Kavi - Pyar Hi Pyar (1969)

2009-12-07T13:37:00.001-08:00

I originally recorded this on April 20, 2006 - about three and a half years ago! It was a late night recording. Send it to a few friends. A few days ago, another friend in Portland asked me if I had recorded this. I admitted that I had and after sending him the mp3 I heard it myself. I thought I could improve it a little bit. So, I recorded it again.

This song has a particular soothing affect to it. To be honest with you, there were times during recording when I started to lag behind due to being under that ecstatic, trancing effect. Anyway, needless to say, I love the song.

I hope you will lend an ear when you have some free time.

Thanks in advance!

Song: Main Kahin Kavi
Movie: Pyar hi Pyar (1969)
Original Singer: Mohammed Rafi
Music Director: Shankar Jaikishan
Lyricist: Hasrat Jaipuri

Download "Main Kahin Kavi"

Mann Ki Lagan - Paap (2004)

2009-11-18T22:37:00.001-08:00

Rahat Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan (b. 1974) is a Pakistani musician, primarily a singer of Qawwali, the devotional music of the Sufis. He is the nephew of the late Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. In addition to Qawwali, he also performs ghazals and other light music. He has toured extensively and performed for Indian and Pakistani audiences around the world.

Traditionally, Qawwali has been a family business. Rahat's family has an unbroken tradition of performing Qawwali for more than 600 years. Rahat took over the family Qawwali party after Nusrat's death in 1997. (Nusrat had formally nominated Rahat as his successor during his lifetime).

Song: Mann Ki Lagan
Movie : Paap (2004)
Singer : Rahat Fateh Ali Khan
Music Director : Shahi
Lyrics : Amjad Islam Amjad

Download "Mann Ki Lagan"

A Tribute to Madan Mohan

2009-07-14T19:57:00.001-07:00

When it comes down to the most symphonic ghazals, Madan Mohan’s name always comes to mind. Madan Mohan Kohli (June 25, 1924 - July 14, 1975), better known as Madan Mohan, was a famed Bollywood film music director of the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. He is particularly remembered for the ghazals he composed for the film industry, mainly using the voice of India's Melody Queen, Lata Mangeshkar and 'King Of Ghazals' Talat Mahmood.

Besides ghazals, Madan Mohan also composed tremendously mesmerizing tunes for the films. Who can ever forget the haunting melodies, such as:

Tum jo mil gaye ho
Aye dil mujhe bata de
Zaroorat hai zaroorat hai
Naina barse
Charagh dil ka jalao
Main ye soch kar

The list is too long for this post, and even for this blog for that matter. Today is the anniversary of the great composer and I would like to dedicate this post to him and his excellent contribution to the music industry.

Download "Ek Haseen Shaam Ko"

Happy New Year

2009-01-02T11:24:00.001-08:00

I cannot stop sharing with you all one of the most unique and unheard of wishes that I received from a friend. It is bound to bring a smile to your face:

May peace break into your house and may thieves steal your debts. May all your pockets become magnets of $100 bills. May love stick to your face like Vaseline and may laughter assault your lips! May your clothes smell of success, may happiness slap you across the face and may your tears be those of joy. May your problems forget your home address!

Wishing you all a very happy, peaceful, prosperous, healthy, generous, and joyous new year!!!

Pyar Ki Ek Kahani: Another Shreya-Sonu Magic!

2008-12-19T16:52:00.001-08:00

In the list of movies with almost all super-hit songs, we can easily add the name, Krrish. Krrish is considered the first Hindi movie with a super-hero (one with a mask and a cape, otherwise the list is long) based story. The songs are melodious, cute, and very pleasing. Some of my favorite songs from the movie include Chori Chori Chupke Chupke, Koi Tumsa Nahin, Main Hun Wo Aasmaan, Dil Na Diya, and Aao Sunaoon Pyar Ki. The last one in the list has the magical voices of Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghoshal with expressions that are gentle, flowing, and perceptive! Lyrics are by Javed Akhtar and composition by Rajesh Roshan.

Rashmi has done a wonderful job in this song. I thank her for joining me in this musical venture.

Download "Pyar Ki Ek Kahani"

Happy Birthday, Udit Narayan!

2008-12-07T22:24:00.000-08:00

Hindi Film Industry has given us many original singers. Amongst those, Udit Narayan's name is one of the memorable ones. Besides his original style, I admire Udit for his sweet and soulful voice.

Udit Narayan was born on December 1, 1960 in Nepal. He began his career in Nepal singing for Kathmandu Radio Station where he used to sing Maithli and Nepali folk songs. Udit worked for Kathmandu Radio for almost eight years before the Indian Embassy offered him the chance to study classical music at a prestigious school in Mumbai, Bhartiya Vidya Bhavan on a music scholarship.

Rajesh Roshan gave him his first break for the film "Unnees Bees" in 1980 in which Udit had a chance to sing with his childhood icon, the legendary Mohammed Rafi. Udit became a household name from the 1988 movie, "Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak" where his voice suited on Amir Khan like a diamond in a ring. Since then, there has been no stopping for this wonderful singer.

I am presenting Nasha ye Pyar Ka Nasha from the movie “Mann” and Chaand Chhupa Badal Mein from the movie “Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam”. The latter has received best male playback singer awards by Filmfare, Zee Cine, and IIFA.

I would like to thank Dr. Parasmani Acharya for lending her beautiful voice for Chaand Chhupa Badal Mein.

(Sources: Wikipedia, Taranaa Tarang)

Download "Nasha Ye Pyar Ka"

Download "Chaand Chhupa Badal Mein"

Tribute to Sanjeev Kumar

2008-11-11T00:39:00.001-08:00

Sanjeev Kumar (July 9, 1938 – November 6, 1985) was one of the most prominent Indian actors in Bollywood movies. He was born Harihar Jariwala to a Gujarati family living in Mumbai. A stint in film school took him to Bollywood, where he eventually became a star (source: Wikipedia).

When Sanjeev Kumar's name come up, many fantastic movies comes to mind: Sangharsh, Andhi, Angoor, Shatranj ke Khiladi, Sholay, and Trishol. And who could ever forget his so heartbreaking, yet realistic acting in the movie "Khilona"! The movie had "Filmfare Awards" written all over it. Director Chander Vohra received Filmafare Best Movie Award. Mumtaz won the Filmfare Best Actress Award. It earned Filmfare nominations for Best Actor - Sanjeev Kumar, Best Comic - Jagdeep, Best Story - Gulshan Nanda, and Best Male Playback Singer - Mohd. Rafi, for the title song "Khilona Jaan Kar".

I present to you "Khilona Jaan Kar". I hope you will enjoy this rendition.

Download "Khilona Jaan Kar"

Kishore Kumar - A Comic Genius

2008-10-15T01:23:00.001-07:00

On 21st Anniversary of Kishore Kumar, I am not sure if there is much I can say about this legend that already has not been said. However, I would like to dedicate this post to his comic genius as a singer, instead of an actor!

A voice that comes from heart and touches hearts of its listeners, immediately! While Kishore Kumar’s romantic and sad songs are more famous, what I have deeply admired, growing up as a teenager, is his command on songs with mischief. The spontaneity and brilliance in creating those expressions of “shararat” and naughtiness is implausible. Combined with the power of flawless yodeling, Kishore Kumar becomes a force not to reckon with. Listen to his comic renditions! Some of those would make you laugh so hard that you will forget all sorrows and grieves for a moment, while others will make you stand up and dance hysterically:

- Mannoo Bhai Motor Chali Pom Pom Pom
- Rafta Rafta Dekho Aankh Meri Ladi Hai
- Kabhi Khole Na Tijori Ka Taala
- Dekha Na Hye Re
- Thodi Si Jo Pee Lee Hai

Trying to be the same teenager that I was, trying to emulate Kishore Da on his uniquely hilarious expressions, I present to you “Sala Main To Sahab Ban Gaya” – a song picturized on Dilip Kumar in the movie, “Sagina”.

Download "Saala Main To Sahab"

Aaj Ki Raat (Don)

2008-09-21T10:34:00.001-07:00

Expressions of suspense!!! Yes, that is what I learned while recording this song. And it was brought to my attention by none other than Srividya! She has done an outstanding job with this song. The delicate, intentional huskiness, gentle whisperings, and the expressions of thrill - she captures it all, and so skillfully.

I have loved this composition since the first time I heard it. The song became so famous that our local band decided to perform it on a Diwali show last year and was loved by the audience.

I hope you will enjoy the song! And please do not deprive us of your valuable comments.

Download "Aaj Ki Raat"

Nostalgia

2008-09-06T17:53:00.001-07:00

One of those songs that has taken over my mind ... I cannot get it out of my head. It just resurfaced from my memory this afternoon and I could not resist recording it.

My apologies for not sending out any notices about this post initially. I just wanted to enjoy that "sitting in a dark room, burried in old memories" feeling for a while!

Download "Aadmi Jo Kehta Hai"

Chitthi Ayee Hai

2008-08-24T00:56:00.001-07:00

A recent trip to my family back home, Independence Days of Pakistan & India (14th & 15th of August), Shantha Senadheera’s beautiful banner for the Independence Week at Taranaa, and Deb Roy’s soulful rendition of the same song last year inspired me immensely to sing this emotional song by Pankaj Udhas.

"Pankaj was first noticed as a professional singer in the film Naam (1986 film), in which his song Chitthi Aayee Hai became an instant hit" (source: Wikipedia). While Pankaj Udhas has sung many wonderful ghazals for his private albums, as well as movies, this one stands out for obvious, sentimental reasons!

I thank in advance all those who will be listening to this rendition!

Download "Chitthi Ayee Hai"

28th Anniversary of Mohammed Rafi

2008-07-31T01:03:00.000-07:00

On the 28th anniversary of Mohammed Rafi - one of the greatest and the most versatile singer of Hindi Cinema, I have prepared a couple songs to pay my humble tribute. People like me, could perhaps speak for their entire lives about Rafi sahab, but it will not suffice his eminence, caliber, and repute. His is the voice that is truly heavenly!

"Parda Hai Parda" is one of the songs I have received the most requests for. It is another illustrious qawwali by Rafi sahib. Picturized with the charisma of Rishi Kapoor in Amar Akbar Anthony, "Parda Hai Parda" is also considered Rishi Kapoor's signature song. Laxmikant Pyarelal and Anand Bakshi provide an awe-inspiring combination for this quixotic melody!

"Aaja Aaja", from the movie Teesri Manzil, is the song I have been planning to sing for a while and finally was able to record it to my satisfaction. Songs like these make us think that singers like Rafi sahab and Asha ji were way ahead of their time. This song also provides nothing but a pure manifestation of RD Burman and Majrooh Sultanpuri's brilliance. I thank Deblina for providing her jovial and gleeful voice for this foot-tapping, head-bobbing, funk-filled, hip-hop "Twist"composition.

I thank you all for bearing with me!

Download "Parda Hai Parda"

Download "Aaja Aaja Main Hun"

A Tribute to Guru & Geeta Dutt

2008-07-16T23:18:00.000-07:00

Guru Dutt [July 9, 1925 - October 10, 1964] was a Hindi film director, producer, and actor. He is most famous for making brilliant lyrical and artistic films within the context of popular Indian cinema of the 1950s, and expanding its commercial conventions, starting with his 1957 masterpiece, Pyaasa. Several of his later works have a cult following. His movies go full house when re-released; especially in Germany, France and Japan. Today, no world class cinema is complete without inclusion of Guru Dutt. Pyaasa was rated as one of the best 100 films of all time by the Time Magazine

Geeta Dutt (born Geeta Ghosh Roy Chowdhuri) [November 23, 1930 – July 20, 1972] was a prominent Indian playback singer in Hindi movies in the 1950s and 60s, and also a singer of modern Bengali songs. When she was 12, her parents moved to Bombay where music director Hanuman Prasad gave her the first break in "Bhakta Prahlad" (1942). She came to light with S D Burman's Baazi.

Guru met Geeta during one of her recordings and they got married on May 26, 1953. They had three children. Some of Geeta's best songs were sung for GuruDutt's movies. S D Burman and O P Nayyar gave Geeta some of the most popular and unforgettable songs and her duets with Mohammed Rafi are all time hits.

These duets presented here are from "Mr. and Mrs. 55" and "12 O' clock". I thank Paras for accepting my request and completing both songs! She has done a job par excellence!

Download "Tum Jo Hue"

Download "Udhar Tum Haseen Ho"

"Yehi Zindagi Hai To" - Sameer at his best!

2008-03-19T00:21:00.001-07:00

Sameer, the son of well know poet Anjaan, is famous for writing melodious words for movies such as Dil, Aashiqui, Haseena Maan Jaye Gee, Soldier, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, and many more.

"Yehi Zindagee Hai To" is one of Sameer's creations that touches your heart immediately. When I heard this song the first time, words became moving images in my mind. I felt seriously affected by the powerful poetry. The soulful voice of Hariharan only added to the graveness of those effects.

I loved recording this song with background overlaps and chorus and all. I hope you all will lend an ear at your leisure.

Movie : Traffic Signal
Singer : Hariharan, Sangeet Haldipur
Music : Shamir Tandon
Lyrics : Sameer

Download "Yehi Zindagi Hai To"

Ramta Jogi - Taal (1999)

2008-03-01T00:59:00.001-08:00

"Ramta Jogi" has a very catchy tune. I was hooked the first time I heard it. The rustic, high-toned, vernacular voice of Sukhwindar was really what the song needed. And Alka's voice was a sweet compliment to that of Sukhwindar's. Thanks to Paras for carrying Alka's part so wonderfully.

Music for Ramta Jogi (Taal) was composed by A R Rahman. He received filmfare award for the score. Lyrics are by Anand Bakshi. This song is filmed on Aishwarya and Anil Kapoor.

Taal was the first Hindi motion picture to appear in the Top 20 Box Office Charts in the USA.

Download "Ramta Jogi"

Janeman: A Shreya-Sonu Seduction

2008-02-10T21:36:00.001-08:00

This is another beautiful feather in the cap of Sonu Nigam-Shreya Ghoshal duets. The melody, the sweetness, and the poetry - all are heart warming. A few other remarkable duets that come to mind instantly by these two singers with such mellifluous voices include "Piyu Bole", "Pal Pal Pal" and "Main Hun Na". The music and lyrics are provided by Anand Raj Anand who has now composed music for more than 60 movies.

Deblina has done a wonderful job with the duet. She is known for her tender, sensitive, and very expressive voice that knows how to flow well. Please visit Deblina's Songs to hear some wonderful renditions in her melodious voice.

Download "Janeman"

Sonu's Best: Mujhse Naraaz Ho To Ho Jao

2008-01-10T15:13:00.001-08:00

Dosto, as you all must have figured out by now, I am sold easily on touching lyrics. While many times tunes get stuck in our heads, it is the lyrics that take you on a journey of an imaginary world that is created by our own innovative mind.

Even though I feel good lyrics are becoming more and more difficult to find, there are songs that combined with good music and voice can sweep you off your feet. "Mujhse Naraaz Ho To" is one such song! Rendered by none other than Sonu Nigam who is famous for his highly expressive and sweet style. Rajesh Roshan has composed the beautiful music of this song!

Please listen at your leisure and do tell of your opinion about this song!

Download "Mujhse Naraaz Ho To Ho Jao"

Rafi Sahab ki Yaad Mein ...

2007-12-24T17:50:00.000-08:00

24 December - Rafi sahab ka yaum-e-paida'ish

Rafi sahab ke baare mein kitna kuch likha ja chuka hai! Lekin phir bhi ye pyaas hai ke bujhti hi nahin. Dil chahta hai ke Rafi sahab ke baare main likhte rahiye, padhte rahiye. Ji chahta hai ke un ki madh-bhari, haseen, meethee, madhosh kar dene wali awaz sunte rahiye ... aur bas sunte rahiye. Ye wo awaz hai ke shayad ise sun ke kaliyaan bhi muskurati hon gee, sharmati hon gee. Is awaz ko sunke shayad sooraj ki kirnain jagmagati hon gee, ithlati hon gee. Ye hi baat Rafi sahab ne khud apne hi aik geet mein kis khoobi se kahi hai:

Hansti zameen, gaate qadam, chalte nazaare, chalte jo ham
Rukte ham to ruk-ruk jaata, Dhalta suuraj dhalte dhalte
Dil ki tamanaa ...

Yesudas sahab ne kitni achi baat ki hai ke mauseeqi ke mauzoo pe bohat saari kitaabain padh ke bhi koi itna nahin seekh sakta jitna ke Rafi sahab ko sun ke aur un ki gayiki ko samajh ke. Main un ki is baat se sau-fi-sad ittifaaq karta hun.

Kabhi kabhi yaqeen nahin aata ke dilon ko chhoo lene wali ye awaz sunaane waale Rafi sahab ab hamare beech nahin rahe! Ye soch kar dil bojhal ho jaata hai lekin phir dharas bandhtee hai ke un ki awaz hamaare saath ab bhi hai aur yehi bohat ghaneemat hai.

Rafi sahab ki saalgirah ke mauqe pe do geet aap sab ki khidmat mein paish karta hun. Aap sab se darkhuast hai ke waqt nikaal ke zurur suniye!

Aakhir mein Rafi sahab ke chand geet zahan mein goonj rahe hain:

Jab bhii ye dil udaas hotaa hai
Jaane kaun aas paas hotaa hai

Ye zindagee ke mele, ye zindagee ke mele
Duniya mein kam na hon ge, afsos hum na hon ge

aur ...

Tum mujhe yun bhula na paaoge
Jab kabhii bhi sunoge geet mere
Sang sang tum bhii gungunaoge

Download "Toote Hue Khaabon Ne"

Download "Ye Raat Hai Pyaasi"

PS: I also have completed a Rafi-Lata duet with Dr. Parasmani Acharya. Please visit her blog Paras' Sargam to listen to the beautiful "Bhar Bhar Aye Ankhiyan".

Door Reh Kar: A Majrooh-Ravi Magic

2007-11-25T22:06:00.000-08:00

Songs get stuck in our heads for many reasons! This one has been stuck in my head due to its beautiful poetry and composition! The burning passion expressed in this song is enough to melt anyone away!

The song is from movie "Amaanat" from the year 1977. Music director is Ravi, poet Majrooh Sultanpuri, and singer is no other than Mohammed Rafi sahab.

Download "Door Reh Kar"

Andaaz-e-Maseehayee

2007-10-23T14:41:00.001-07:00

Parasmani Acharya is a doctor of medicine and is an expert in providing medical treatment. But when I heard her songs at Taranaa, I thought that her voice alone was enough to cure people and the degree of medicine was perhaps an over-qualification :)

Parasmani's voice takes you back to the past of sweet memories. Our mind starts hearing Geeta Dutt's and Shamshad Begum's everlasting voices. I have been very lucky to have many wonderful songs sung with her. Here, I am presenting another beautiful song from movie "Mohabbat Isko Kehte Hain". The charms of Shashi Kapoor and stances of Nanda are too hard to ignore, specially when backed up by the voices of Mohammed Rafi and Suman Kalyanpur. Khayyam provided the composition and Majrooh Sultanpuri came up with the heart-touching lyrics!

Download "Thaheriye Hosh Mein Aa Lun"

The Age of "Mitwa"

2007-09-03T02:07:00.000-07:00

Download "Mitwa"

It would not be so untrue to call 2006 the year of "Mitwa". The song has swept off all types of music lovers! It is one of those songs that keeps playing in your head till you start singing or listening to it again.

This is another wonderful addition to the compositions of Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy! The composition is one of the most beautiful and creative compositions of our time. Shankar did the sargam and alaap in the middle of the song beautifully and momentarily stole the show! The rest of the song debuted Shafqat Amanat Ali who really put his heart and soul into it. Shafqat is no stranger to the music world. He is the son of Pakistan's most famous Ustad Amanat Ali Khan. Following is a brief history of the family from wiki:

"Ustad Amanat Ali Khan(1932-1974) was a Pakistani classical music singer of Patiala Gharana. He was the elder of the singing duo Amanat Ali-Fateh Ali brothers, who enjoyed immense prestige and success in Pakistan as well as India, until his death.

"Ustad Amanat was the son of Akhtar Husain Khan and grandson of Ali Baksh Khan, the founder of 'Patiala Gharana.' Along with Ustad Fateh Ali Khan, Ustad Amanat started singing for gatherings ('mehfils') at an early age and they were recognised singers in the court of the Patiala king.

"After independence the brothers migrated to Pakistan where they continued to sing, gaining popularity not only in Pakistan but the entire sub-continent.

"Ustad Amanat received the 'Pride of Performance' award form the government of Pakistan.Ustad Amanat Ali Khan died in Lahore in September 1974.

"Ustad Amanat Ali Khan's elder son Ustad Asad Amanat Ali Khan inherited his father-like beautiful voice and talent. After a very successful music career, and contributing unforgettable treasure to ghazal singing, he died of heart attack on 8th April 2007 in London. The baton of the Patiala gharana has been carried on of sorts by Ustad Amanat Ali Khan's younger son, Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan."

To read more on the legacy of "Patiala" gharana, please visit: Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan

About six months ago, one of my friends Bilal suggested that I should take a shot at this song. I kept postponing till recently when I started to look for the track and could not find it in Taranaa library. When I requested the track from Taranaa, I was delighted to see it posted in a few days. I kept procrastinating ... till today when I decided to give it a shot! I hope you will like it too. Please do send in your comments!

Bhavana – A Very Sweet Voice

2007-02-04T21:50:00.000-08:00

Qawwali Time
It is my pleasure to introduce a beautiful voice to you. Among Taranaa members, Bhavana is already a well-known name. Bhavana loves to explore and accept challenges. It is this attitude and love of music that she did such a fabulous job with this very famous qawwali "Hum Kisi se Kam Nahin". I am sure it would not be a surprise to know that Bhavana won "Taranaa Qawwali Contest".

Bhavana has also been a "Taranaa Star of the Month". For a year or so, Bhavana's contributions towards Taranaa and its members have been immensely significant and prominent. Her performances are sweet as well as diverse. Recently, we did “Beedi Jalaile” from the movie Omkara. This number shows how sundry her performances are. For some other really engaging renditions by Bhavana, please visit the following pages:

Bhavana - Star of the Month
Ghazal Week (Entry 7th, 12th, and 15th by Bhavana)

About the qawwali “Hum Kisi Se Kam Nahin”, what can I say! Some call it the “King of Qawwalis”. Amongst Rafi Sahab’s qawwalis, I personally place this one right beside “Parda Hai Parda”, “Phir Tere Shahar Mein”, and “Phir Tumhari Yaad Ayee”. While opinions may vary on which one is the king of qawwalis, I am hoping that you would listen to this effort by Bhavana and myself. I also hope that you would let us know of our areas of improvements.

Thanks a bunch!

Hai Agar Dushman (Download)

Mohammed Rafi aur Shammi Kapoor ka Jadoo - Episode-2

2006-12-22T19:45:00.000-08:00

Badan Pe Sitaare (Download)

Junglee (Download)

Mohammed Rafi aur Shammi Kapoor ka Jadoo - Episode-1

2006-12-22T19:35:00.000-08:00

Aji Aisa Muaqa (Download)

Sukoo Sukoo (Download)

Hui Shaam Unka Khayal Aa Gaya

2006-12-22T19:08:00.000-08:00

Dard-e-Dil – Episode-1

So, I already admitted that trying to capture moods of Rafi Sahab, or any other singer for that matter, is not as easy as I thought. But hey, consider it my wish list. I have been wanting to record a bunch of Rafi sahab songs for a long time and here is my chance. So, the following are some of the categories, I will be working on in next few weeks:

1. Mohammed Rafi aur Shammi Kapoor ka Jadoo - Episode 1 & 2
2. Dard-e-Dil - Episode-2
3. Qawwali Time
4. Shokhi-e-Mohabbat
5. Nashe Mein Choor - Episode-3

Please do keep me posted on my areas of improvements!

Hui Shaam Unka Khayal (Download)

Nasheelay Nayan

2006-12-19T01:23:00.000-08:00

Nashe Mein Choor – Episode-2

When I was young, my mom used to advise: "Don't start anything you cannot finish". Well, I would argue how would I know whether I could finish or not if I didn't start. Nope! She was not happy with that answer! Well, trying to capture the moods of Rafi sahab appears to be similar task! I started it but have no clue whether I would be able to bring it to a decent conclusion! Well, how would I know if I did not try - he he he!

Here is the second episode of "Nashe Mein Choor". And this time its "Aankhon ka Nasha".

Without further ado ...

Gulabi Aankhain (Download)

Aise To Na Dekho(Download)

Mai, Masti, aur Madhoshi

2006-12-12T22:44:00.000-08:00

Nashe Mein Choor – Episode-1

So, I thought singing songs I have been hearing since my adolescence would not be difficult! WRONG!!! And these are the songs, which I thought I knew very well. Hence, my frustration can be somewhat imagined.

To tell you the truth, it was another eye-opening experience for me. During recording of these two songs, I had a chance to study them a bit more closely. The expression of word “Jaam” in Chhalkain Jaam alone posed much challenge. Rafi sahib emoted this word in four, possibly five, different ways out of a total of six. That was enough to make me nervous. So, when I said I am on a recording frenzy, I meant recording of different songs. It turned out Chhalkain Jaam alone took me about four days to record. Now, Mujhe Dunya Walo was a whole new ballgame!

The pitch and expression of Mujhe Dunya Walo took the breath away from my vocal chords – literally! I tried and tried again and then gave up with the version I present here. The track, in particular, sounds deteriorated and it is. I had to raise the pitch by 8% to get it close to the original. Consequently, some of the beats got slightly distorted.

With my increased admiration for our great maestros of yesteryears, I present these songs to you. This effort is only to improve my own self and nothing more than that.

Chhalkayain Jaam (Download)

Mujhe Dunya Walo (Download)

Pursuits of a Music Junkie!

2006-12-10T20:50:00.000-08:00

So, what does a music junkie do when he/she has free time? Well, it is a rhetoric question. And yes, I am on a recording frenzy.

In my previous post "Na Fankaar Tujh Sa ...", on Rafi sahab's anniversary, I mentioned different moods that we all know Rafi sahab for. Whether it is a sad song or a happy one, a song with Shammi Kapoor's charming craziness, Dilip Kumar's romantic gaze, or Devanand's virile flair, Rafi Sahab made everyone contented.

I intend to take some very amateur shots at those moods. So, in the next few weeks, look out for some Rafi sahab's songs from me. And please do keep me posted with your suggestions for improvements.

Keep your fingers crossed for "Nashe Mein Choor" Episode-1 within next couple of days.

When Tears Became Pearls ...

2006-11-30T23:03:00.000-08:00

I don't think I have words to express the feelings that are generated after listening to this song. I wish I was a poet!

Manna Dey sahab sang his heart out with this song! I thank Vidyu with the bottom of my heart to introduce me to this great song!

Download "Poochho Na Kaise"

The Melody of Gandharva Loka

2006-11-19T20:45:00.000-08:00

When Ramesh first asked me to try a number in a South Indian language, I knew he was not kidding. Because when it comes down to music, Ramesh’s mind is far from non-serious business. We talked about it and he selected a few songs for me to listen. My education to South Indian music had just begun!

I was very scared at first since I did not know a single word of any South Indian language. I started by listening to one of the most versatile singer, S.P. Balasubrramanium. Although he did not play as much with his voice in this as he has in many other songs but just a couple of subtle expressions and nuances were enough to put me on a high alert. Should I drop the idea? How about expressions and emotions? I give a significant amount of importance to expressions and emotions since that makes a huge difference in the final outcome of a song. All these questions boggled my mind while I kept listening to SPB’s madhur rendition.

Topping it was the unbeatable melody and catchy interludes of the ace music director Illayaraja. Ramesh tells me that his music is considered a reflection from the Gandharva Loka (the Hindus believe that there is a Planet in the Universe that is dedicated to Music and Art and that is known as Gandharva Loka)

The big kicker was when I received the translation from Ramesh! Some of the lyrics were very deep in their meanings and also very eloquent. After understanding the meaning, the whole process got a bit easier. Ramesh also told me that to make it authentic, he sought "the help of our Taranaa Super Star singer Vidya" (who, I understand sought the help of another friend). Oh boy! This was just to make me sing this song. Vidya, thanks to you and your friend (please do let me know who that person is, if you would)

Ramesh and I went back and forth over a few versions. It was his patience and persistence that helped me complete this task that I never dreamt of. The credit for all of my work goes to Ramesh who has an excellent knowledge on music in general and is a blessing to have around as a friend who acts more like a brother.

Please do let me know of my shortcomings in this rendition. I have only started to get my feet wet. Destination is not even in my sight yet!

Download "Panivizhum"