What a beautiful week to celebrate! This year marks our 79th Independence Day, followed by Janmashtami. For the #BlogchatterBlogHop this week, I considered various topics to write about. Should I pen a letter to a soldier as a thankful citizen or craft a short story about the life of an average Indian like myself? After much thought, I finally settled on a different approach. I decided to write about a personality who has brought us global fame and made our country proud with their immense talent. This could be a sportsman, a politician, an author, or a poet. However, since music plays a significant role in my life, I chose to focus on the patriotic songs composed by A.R. Rahman.
A.R. Rahman's career in Hindi films began with his composition for "Roja" in 1992, which brought a fresh dynamic to the industry. Following this debut, his soulful compositions continued to win the hearts of audiences in various Hindi movies, including "Bombay," "Dil Se," and "Rangeela." After captivating audiences for over 15 years, he made history in 2008 by winning the Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Jai Ho" and Best Original Score for the film "Slumdog Millionaire." He received the BAFTA Award, the Golden Globe, and two Grammys that same year. His remarkable score for "127 Hours" earned him additional BAFTA and Golden Globe accolades in 2010. Already considered a legend in his field, Rahman has made India proud globally. He is renowned for his versatility in romantic songs, tragic melodies, and dance numbers, which consistently mesmerise audiences. Additionally, the maestro has gifted us with incredible patriotic compositions that are truly unparalleled.
Today, I have compiled a list of 6 heart-touching and powerful patriotic songs composed by A.R. Rahman:
1. Bharat Humko Jaan Se (Roja): In his first film composition, Rahman created this masterpiece. Sung by Hariharan, the song captivates the audience with the thought of a beautiful Bharat, and how the country comes first, and above all.
The starting guitar chords and Hariharan's soothing voice give a calming effect, while the sudden transition to the chorus adds power and the feel of patriotism. The music is a delightful cocktail of the patriotic Indian and the romantic Indian, who has fallen in love with the beauty of his nation.
2. Vande Mataram ( Vande Mataram): Released in 1997, Vande Mataram was a song from the music album of the same name. Composed and sung by Rahman himself, the song is a beautiful tribute to India. Penned by Mehboob, the video captures rural India's beautiful, raw spirit.
The line "Mai gaya jahaa bhi, bas teri yaad thi," gives me goosebumps whenever I hear it. Isn't that true? I feel fortunate to have visited a few countries, and everywhere I went, I found myself thinking about India and the places back home that are similar to or resemble my travel destinations.
3. Chale Chalo ( Lagaan): An incredible movie about sports, standing up for self-respect, pride for the nation and love for its people- and to make the experience more wholesome, some power-packed music by Rahman. Lagaan gave it all to us, and this song has such a spirited feel that one automatically gets transported to the situation the song was based on. And what a song it is! Each part of the tune and the lyrics individually presents every character and their back stories.
The finishing touch with the mix of Punjabi Bhangra and Rabab playing in the background adds the celebratory touch before the fight begins.
4. Des Mere Des Mere (The Legend of Bhagat Singh ): This song is from the film "The Legend of Bhagat Singh," which was released in 2002. It beautifully captures the backdrop of freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru as they prepare to fight against the British Raj in their pursuit of a free India.
The powerful voice of Sukhwindar Singh, paired with A R Rahman, highlights the song's varied mood—a strong vocal expression against British oppression, alongside the humanitarian efforts depicted in the video.
5. Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera ( Swades): Sometimes, we find it difficult to express our feelings in words, especially when it comes to something so beautiful and masterful that no praise seems adequate. This song embodies that feeling for me. Every element—whether it's the heartfelt blend of the Shehnai, Tabla, and Ghatam or the touching lyrics—conveys the essence of my nation. The entire experience of listening to this song captures the magic of patriotism.
The incredible picturization, a man's new vision, while being rooted in his approach to change for a cause- if a song can tell an entire story, it is this one.
6. Rang De Basanti ( Rang De Basanti): This song is a celebration of patriotism and the beauty of our nation. Sung by Daler Mehendi, it is picturized on a group of free-spirited friends who are fully immersed in this joyous celebration. The Bhangra influence adds energy and liveliness to the spirit of the event, while a great deal of planning for the nation goes on behind these festivities, very slowly and subtly.
One of the best films that explores patriotism is Rang De Basanti. Its title track perfectly captures the film's essence. The strong vocals of Daler Mehendi, combined with Chitra's slightly shrill yet soothing tone, bring a unique variety to the music.
There are many other songs by Rahman that focus on patriotism. However, these are the ones that are most loved. I look forward to more such mesmerizing compositions from him in the coming years.
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ReplyDeleteAll patriotic songs give me goosebumps. You have compiled these songs excellently.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much
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