Music In The Mountains: Ban Ke Panchhi Gaye Pyaar Ka Tarana

Today's song will surely bring a smile to viewers' lips. It is from "Anari" (1959). Raj Kapoor and Nutan starred in this film that tells the story of an innocent young man.

This number is a celebration of youth. The leading lady and her friends are on an outing on their bicycles. Nutan is amazing in personifying the happiness, hopes and dreams of a young lady. Her beautiful face, twinkling eyes and the swinging of her pony-tail as she moves her head left and right are all very delightful. Shubha Khote as one of the young cyclists is very charming too. Raj Kapoor makes a brief appearance riding a bicycle. All in all, a very refreshing and enjoyable song!

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri
Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Music In The Mountains: Ye Parda Hata Do

The story of "Ek Phool Do Mali" (1969) is set in the mountains. The male lead is a mountaineering enthusiast, and the leading lady works at an apple orchard. Sanjay Khan and Sadhana form the lead couple, while Balraj Sahni provides the third dimension to the twosome. It is a fairly successful film of its time, with romance, action, sacrifice, song and dance, comedy, and emotion; all thrown in good measure to appeal to a large cross-section of viewers.

Presenting a delightful duet from this film today. The song not only takes us to beautiful mountainous locations, but to an apple orchard also where the beginning sequence is shot. We have had many songs featuring flowers, parks and gardens; but very few with the backdrop of trees laden with fruit!

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Mohammad Rafi
Lyrics: Prem Dhawan
Music: Ravi

Music In The Mountains: Pyaasi Hirni Ban Ban Dhaye

Rajshree is the daughter of legendary filmmaker V. Shantaram and his actress wife Jayshree. She quit her successful career in films after marrying an American gentleman decades ago. Presenting a haunting solo from "Do Dil" (1965) in which she starred with Biswajeet. Hrishikesh Mukherjee directed this beautiful film. The story revolves around the theme of palace intrigue in royal families.

The song has been shot artistically with the lovely Rajshree sprinting across hills and valleys.The camera follows her, giving us breathtaking views of the landscape. Biswajeet is drawn to her mesmerising voice, and he follows her too. In the midst of all this running, we are treated to a superb melody. Kaifi Azmi as the lyricist is a surprise. Someone like Bharat Vyas would have been my guess!

Another song Saara mora kajara from the same film has appeared in this space earlier under a different theme.

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Kaifi Azmi
Music: Hemant Kumar

Music In The Mountains: Ja Ja Ja Mere Bachpan

Saira Banu debuted in Hindi films with "Junglee" (1961). It was one of the early films in colour. Also, it was shot extensively on location in Kashmir. Presenting a sweet solo from this film today. It is a 'coming of age' song. The leading lady is on the threshold of adulthood, eager to say goodbye to her childhood/adolescence. Lata Mangeshkar croons for this young lady very delicately in a soft, almost hushed tone.

Two other songs from the same film have appeared in this space. They are Din saara guzara tore angana under a different theme and Chahe koi mujhe junglee kahe in the ongoing theme.

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri
Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Music In The Mountains: Humne Jo Dekhe Sapne

Here is a pleasant duet from "Parivar" (1968). It is a family drama starring Jeetendra and Nanda. The film underlines the importance of keeping one's family small. It was well-timed too, considering India had introduced its family planning program in the early fifties. But somehow it remained just a routine potboiler instead of being a film with a powerful social message. This song however stood out, and it is because of this that we are even talking of the film today.

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Mahendra Kapoor
Lyrics: Gulshan Bawra
Music: Kalyanji Anandji

Music In The Mountains: Phir Miloge Kabhi

"Yeh Raat Phir Na Aayegi" (1966) is a gripping suspense thriller with a good story and excellent music. It has been shot in black and white, and that adds to its appeal and mystery. Prithviraj Kapoor plays an eminent archaeologist whose team unearths something sensational at an excavation site. There is a skeleton in the closet (both, literally and metaphorically)! How it affects the lives of his near and dear ones forms the rest of the story.

Presenting a lovely duet from this film today. The scenic location and brilliant cinematography enhance the beauty of the song.

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Mohammad Rafi
Lyrics: S. H. Bihari
Music: O. P. Nayyar

Music In The Mountains: Jai Jai Shiv Shankar

Enjoy this super-hit number from "Aap Ki Kasam" (1974) today. This is supposed to have been sung by a group of devotees under the influence of bhang, which is associated with Lord Shiva. It is commonly consumed in the form of a delicious drink on festivals such as Shivaratri and Holi, and often has hallucinogenic effects on people. That explains the erratic steps of Rajesh Khanna and Mumtaz! It is a fun-filled, no holds barred performance by both of them.

This song has an interesting story attached to it. R.D. Burman had to use extra musicians and chorus for recording it in order to give it the special effect that its picturisation demanded. As a result, the budget for this song went up from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 50,000. Obviously producer director J. Om Prakash was not happy and started lamenting about it by saying pachas hazar kharch kar diye. When Kishore Kumar came to know this, he decided to have fun by singing that phrase towards the end of the song. And surprisingly, something which was meant to be a prank was retained in the final recording. You can listen to it as bajao re bajao imandari se bajao pachas hazar kharch kar diye after 5.05.

Two songs from the same film have appeared in this space earlier. They are Suno kaho kaha suna under another theme and Karvaten badalte rahe in the ongoing theme.

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar
Lyrics: Anand Bakshi
Music: R. D. Burman

Music In The Mountains: Chalo Bulawa Aaya Hai

So far we have had romance, love for Nature, pining for a lover, patriotism, folk dance and folk music, inspiration, student-teacher sequence, and light-hearted fun as the primary ingredients in the songs that have appeared under this theme. Introducing yet another emotion today: devotion and faith. People have been scaling mountains due to their immense faith in the Supreme. The journey often involves adventure, uncertainty and physical hardship, but the sense of fulfilment after the completion of such a trip is immensely rewarding.

Here is a song from "Avtaar" (1983). Rajesh Khanna and Shabana Azmi starred in this social drama that focused on relationship issues between ageing parents and grown-up children. The story touched a chord in the viewers' hearts and was a commercial success.

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Mahendra Kapoor, Narendra Chanchal
Lyrics: Anand Bakshi
Music: Laxmikant Pyarelal

Music In The Mountains: Ho Koi Aayega Aayega Aayega

A charming duet by Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle from "Professor" (1962). When the two sisters sing together, they create something special. Here it is an energetic song and dance with folkish steps performed by a group of women in picturesque surroundings.

Another song Main chali main chali peechhe peechhe jahaan from the same film has appeared earlier in this space under the ongoing theme.

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri
Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Music In The Mountains: Suhana Safar Aur Ye Mausam Haseen

Here is another gem from the black and white era. This lovely solo from "Madhumati" (1958) is an audio-visual delight. Flowers bursting with freshness, rivers gurgling with abandon, mountains kissing the horizon in the distance, and a dapper Dilip Kumar trotting joyously; taking us along with him on this wonderful trip! Some frames are breathtaking, especially the one where he is standing facing the mountains with a lone tree to his left for company.

Two more songs from the same film have appeared in this space. They are Ghadi ghadi mora dil dhadke under another theme and Dil tadap tadap ke under the ongoing theme.

Singer: Mukesh
Lyrics: Shailendra
Music: Salil Chowdhury

Music In The Mountains: Kandhon Se Milte Hain Kandhe

We are forever grateful to our brave soldiers for guarding the borders of our country. They live and work in inhabitable locales under difficult conditions to provide safety and security to their fellow countrymen and women. We always wish well for them, but just as we send our wishes to people on their birthdays even though we mean it all through the year; we express our gratitude to our soldiers on a day like this when we celebrate our Independence Day.

Presenting a song from "Lakshya" (2004) today. It is a war drama that tells the story of an aimless man who gets transformed into a focused army officer due to the circumstances in his life. The events in the film are set against a fictional backdrop of the Kargil War. But the dedication, determination and valour of the men is as real as can be!

Singers: Hariharan, Kunal Ganjawala, Roop Kumar Rathod, Shankar Mahadevan, Sonu Nigam, Vijay Prakash

Lyrics: Javed Akhtar

Music: Shankar Ehsaan Loy

Music In The Mountains: Saathi Haath Badhana

"Naya Daur" (1957)  is an important film of its time that brought entertainment and good music to viewers along with raising a relevant question about the human cost of progress. It was originally shot in black and white. A colourised version was released in 2007.

The story is set in a village. The protagonist is one of the tongawallahs who depend on the income they earn by transporting people on their tongas (horse carts). Their existence is threatened by the introduction of a bus service, and the evil intention of the bus owner to throw them out of the village. How they face this challenge forms the rest of the story.

Presenting a motivating song from this film today. It talks about hope, unity and hard work. The message it gives is as valuable today as it was 61 years ago. It has found its way in some Hindi textbooks as an inspirational poem for students.

Two songs Maang ke saath tumhara and Reshami salwaar kurta jaali ka from the same film have appeared in this space earlier under different themes.

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Mohammad Rafi
Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi
Music: O. P. Nayyar

Music In The Mountains: Tere Mere Hothon Pe

Sridevi would have been 55 today. She started her career as a child actress and went on to become one of the most successful stars in Indian cinema. She has left behind a large body of work spanning several languages.

Here is a duet from one of her memorable films "Chandni" (1989). It is a romantic musical, and her first with producer director Yash Chopra. Sridevi got an opportunity to put her glamour as well as her acting prowess to good use in her role which required her to portray a lively woman in the first half and a quiet, subdued person in the second half. She shone in both just like a chandni, which incidentally was her character's name too.

Two other songs Mere haathon mein and Lagi aaj saawan ki phir wo jhadi  from the same film have appeared in this space earlier in different themes.

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Babla Mehta
Lyrics: Anand Bakshi
Music: Shiv Hari

Music In The Mountains: Meri Jaan Balle Balle

"Kashmir Ki Kali" (1964) is a romantic musical which marked Sharmila Tagore's debut in Hindi films. Before that she had appeared in Bengali films. Shammi Kapoor and Sharmila Tagore made a lovable pair. They danced and sang their way to viewers' hearts in this film which was shot extensively on location in Kashmir.

This fast-paced number is a delicious mix of Punjab and Kashmir. Scenic Kashmir forms the backdrop to the lively Bhangra that brings the aroma of Punjab with it. Shammi Kapoor's antics are entertaining as ever, and young Sharmila Tagore's beauty and charm complement her fresh face and graceful steps. Go balle balle with this song for its sheer energy and 'feel-good' fun!

Another song Deewana hua baadal from the same film has appeared in this space earlier in another theme.

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Mohammad Rafi

Lyrics: S. H. Bihari

Music: O. P. Nayyar

Music In The Mountains: Megha Chhaye Aadhi Raat

The stories of many Hindi films have been woven around pairs of twins. "Sharmilee" (1971) is one of them. Raakhee excels in her portrayal of two twin sisters: one shy and gentle, while the other bold and outgoing. She was paired with Shashi Kapoor, and the two of them delivered a hit film. Music of course played a big role in the film's success.

Listen to this song! Poet Neeraj's craft shines in his eloquent Hindi. Keeping the nature of the two sisters in mind, S. D. Burman composed a unique track by juxtaposing Western and Indian pieces to create this melody. Interestingly, the lyrics and the music accompanying them evoke melancholy, and the instrumental interludes convey exuberance. Yet, the two together gel wonderfully well to make this beautiful solo.

Two other songs from the same film have appeared in this space earlier. They are Aaj madhosh hua jaaye re in another theme and O meri o meri o meri sharmilee in the ongoing theme.

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Neeraj
Music: S. D. Burman

Music In The Mountains: Aap Yun Hi Agar

There is so much to see and listen to in the duet being featured today that you wonder how much beauty the creators have packed in a sequence lasting just a few minutes. The number is from "Ek Musafir Ek Hasina" (1962). The film is a complete entertainer with good amount of romance, action and mystery in it.

Kashmir is an integral part of the story and Sadhana looks lovely in her Kashmiri outfit. The lyrics are simple, yet they hold your attention. The tune is catchy, with Asha Bhosle rendering the refrain ho jaayega in a different style every time. The vocal and instrumental interludes throughout the song exude much joy. Then there are the little nuances like Sadhana's interaction with the young boy using only her eyes, the sound of anklets accompanying her steps in every stanza, and the peacock dance. All these draw you into the song, and just when you wish there was more to it, it gets over!

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Mohammad Rafi
Lyrics: Raja Mehdi Ali Khan
Music: O. P. Nayyar

Music In The Mountains: Jaaiye Aap Kahaan Jaayenge

"Mere Sanam" (1965) is one of those films which were not exceptional in the story department, yet they were hits at the box office because of their superlative music and beautiful locations. The story is predictable, the characters are black and white without any shades of grey. They fit in the usual slots of hero, heroine, villain, vamp and comedian. But the film worked, as nothing in it was terribly wrong either. Also, it was in tune with the kind of films being made at that time.

Music is one of the main reasons why we talk about the film even after so many years. Enjoy this solo by Asha Bhosle in her inimitable style. The lovely landscape of Kashmir provides a fitting backdrop to her vibrant vocals.

Singer: Asha Bhosle
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Music: O. P. Nayyar

Music In The Mountains: Yeh Ishq Haaye

Babita and Randhir Kapoor appeared in yesterday's post. Today their daughter Kareena Kapoor dances to a peppy song from "Jab We Met" (2007). The opening sequence of this song was shot in Rohtang Pass, and soon the scene shifts to Naggar Castle; both close to Manali in Himachal Pradesh. Naggar Castle is a wood and stone structure built more than 500 years ago. It overlooks a valley offering breathtaking views from its courtyard. The courtyard was transformed into a Tibetan carnival site with huge props, local performers and lion dancers for shooting this song. And as we can see, all this has given a nice local flavour to the song and the dance.

The film was a super hit giving a huge boost to the careers of leading couple Kareena Kapoor and Shahid Kapoor, and winning many awards in several categories.

Singer: Shreya Ghoshal
Lyrics: Irshad Kamil
Music: Pritam Chakraborty

Music In The Mountains: Hum Jab Honge Saath Saal Ke

A fun, light-hearted duet from "Kal Aaj Aur Kal" (1971) today. As the name suggests, it is a film about three generations and the difficulties arising out of ideological conflicts between them. Real life grandfather Prithviraj Kapoor, father Raj Kapoor and grandson Randhir Kapoor played their own roles on the screen. The leading lady Babita was already an established actress then, while this was Randhir Kapoor's debut film as an actor and director. The two got married soon after it got released.

It is an average film which was moderately successful, but once in a while it is nice to visit such films and such songs for old times' sake, isn't it? Moreover, it is Kishore Kumar's birth anniversary today so listening to this duet that he sang in his inimitable style with Asha Bhosle is all the more special!

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Kishore Kumar
Lyrics: Shaily Shailendra
Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Music In The Mountains: Ban Ke Titli Dil Uda

A refreshing song today, pleasing to the ears as well as eyes. From "Chennai Express" (2013), the number is a splendid mix of modern and traditional in terms of its lyrics and visuals. It has been shot in the modern style, consisting of a collage of lovely frames. But the frames in turn are made of very traditional scenes showing a temple, a village, and women performing exquisite Bharatnatyam steps in the lush green hills.

Similarly the lyrics in Hindi are contemporary, while the lyrics in Tamil are in praise of Lord Vishnu written by Thiruppan Azhwar, an ancient saint poet born in 2760 BCE. Sisters Charulatha Mani and Madhumitha Mani have lent their voices for these verses. Even if you are not familiar with the language, so powerful are the words and their rendition that you can feel the divinity in them!

Singers: Chinmayi, Gopi Sunder
Lyrics: Amitabh Bhattacharya
Music: Vishal Shekhar

Music In The Mountains: Oonche Himalay Ke Neeche

If you are compiling Hindi film songs shot in the mountains, you cannot miss the ones from "Himalay Ki God Mein" (1965). The title of the film says it all! Not only are the songs great, but the story is very good also; and with a social message. No wonder it won the award for Best Film, and was nominated in several other categories.

Manoj Kumar plays the role of a conscientious doctor who chooses to live in a Himalayan village and take care of local people who do not have proper medical facilities. Mala Sinha is a sweet young woman from the village, while Shashikala is Manoj Kumar's fiancee from the city who is a doctor too. Predictable story, but beautiful location, excellent music, able direction and competent cast ensured that the film would be a super-hit.

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Anand Bakshi
Music: Kalyanji Anandji

Music In The Mountains: Kitna Haseen Hai Mausam

Meena Kumari would have been 85 today. So, today's post is in her honour and memory. Along with being a fine actress, she was also a singer and a poetess who used 'Naaz' as her pseudonym. Her diction was perfect and she delivered her dialogues with finesse. Born Mahjabeen Bano, she earned the epithet of 'Tragedy Queen' because of the large number of sad roles she essayed in Hindi films.

But she did get to play other roles too, and sang some happy songs on the screen. Presenting one such song from "Azaad" (1955) today. It is a lovely duet. Interestingly, her co-star is Dilip Kumar who was often referred to as 'Tragedy King'. Playback for him is by composer C. Ramchandra who sang occasionally using his last name Chitalkar.

Three songs from this film have appeared in this space earlier in three different themes. They are Jaa ri jaa ri o kaari badariya, Dekho ji bahaar aayi, and Na bole na bole na bole re. It is the first film to be featured here four times. What a great musical!

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, C. Ramchandra
Lyrics: Rajendra Krishan
Music: C. Ramchandra

Music In The Mountains: Chahe Koi Mujhe Junglee Kahe

It is Mohammad Rafi's death anniversary today and hence this post is dedicated to his memory. Mohammad Rafi sang for almost all leading men of his time, but his association with Shammi Kapoor was legendary. There was a wonderful chemistry between them and the two together created so many memorable songs that it would not be wrong to say that Mohammad Rafi was Shammi Kapoor's voice and Shammi Kapoor was the face of Mohammad Rafi's vocals.

Enjoy this iconic solo from "Junglee" (1961) and watch Shammi Kapoor and Saira Banu slide down snowy slopes performing amazing acrobatic stunts. How difficult it must have been to shoot these sequences! The film was an entertaining family drama/romance with a good story and lovely songs. It marked Saira Banu's debut. By the way, the loud roar Yaaaahooo is not in Mohammad Rafi's voice. Actor-director-writer Prayag Raj lent his voice for this call which became the song's identity.

Another song Din saara guzara tore angana from the same film has appeared in this space in an earlier theme.

Singer: Mohammad Rafi
Lyrics: Shailendra
Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Music In The Mountains: Dil Pukare

After digressing a bit in the last few posts, we are back to the genre of romantic duets today. "Jewel Thief" (1967) is a super-hit spy thriller which is remembered for its intriguing story and melodious music even today. A significant part of the film was shot in picturesque Sikkim, adding a lot of colour and visual delight to the production. Dev Anand and Vyjayanthimala sparkled under the able direction of Vijay Anand. They were supported by an ensemble cast of Ashok Kumar, Tanuja, Helen, Anju Mahendru and Faryal. Perhaps Dev Anand was shown having dalliances with these pretty ladies in an effort to project him as an Indian James Bond.

Enjoy this syrupy sweet song from this film which appeals to listeners across generations and hasn't lost its magic one bit. On the contrary, it has matured well like old wine!

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammad Rafi
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Music: S. D. Burman

Music In The Mountains: Bheegi Bheegi Fazaa

It is for the first time that I am bringing two songs from the same film back to back. But the one posted yesterday and the one being posted today present such a contrast that I am tempted to feature them one after the other. Kuchh dil ne kaha is restrained, while this is effervescent. That one had a shy Sharmila Tagore humming softly while this one has a bubbly Shashikala at her chirpiest. Sharmila Tagore was strolling gently in the woods, while Shashikala is all over the place, running joyously. That one was in Lata Mangeshkar's voice, and this one is in Asha Bhosle's.

The film "Anupama" (1966), the hills, Kaifi Azmi and Hemant Kumar are the same!

Singer: Asha Bhosle
Lyrics: Kaifi Azmi
Music: Hemant Kumar

Music In The Mountains: Kuchh Dil Ne Kaha

Several stalwarts came together to create the classic "Anupama" (1966). Its sensitive story blossomed in the able direction of Hrishikesh Mukherjee. Dharmendra plays the role of a scholarly writer while Sharmila Tagore portrays a subdued young woman who is in a difficult relationship with her father.

Kaifi Azmi penned sublime lyrics for the songs and Hemant Kumar composed wonderful music for them. Enjoy a hauntingly beautiful solo from this film today. Lata Mangeshkar's soft voice sounds almost like a whisper. And the words feel like a shower of petals! The hilly landscape adds to the allure of the song.

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Kaifi Azmi
Music: Hemant Kumar

Music In The Mountains: Ye Kaun Chitrakar Hai

On the occasion of Guru Poornima, today's song is dedicated to our teachers. It talks of the bounties of Nature and their Creator in a rich yet simple language. Why, it is one of the most beautiful and profound verses said in the praise of the Almighty. It is from "Boond Jo Ban Gayee Moti" (1967). Produced and directed by V. Shantaram, the film starred Jeetendra and Mumtaz.

What makes this song an apt selection for today is the fact that in this film, Jeetendra plays the role of an upright schoolteacher who is falsely charged in a murder case. Shantaram was a master filmmaker who made meaningful films with a social message. This film underlines the importance of honesty and integrity in one's life.

Singer: Mukesh
Lyrics: Bharat Vyas
Music: Satish Bhatia

Music In The Mountains: Koi Nahin Hai

An indulgent dad, a haughty daughter, an honest manager, a wicked thekedaar, a good-natured sidekick, a caring sister, a love triangle, vast estates, superb locales, song and dance, some unsavoury skeletons in the closet, revenge, crime. Some or all of these ingredients have been thrown in to cook up many a potboiler. "Patthar Ke Sanam" (1967) is no exception. Writer Gulshan Nanda used several of these to put together the story of this film. Yet, it did quite well. Good music and a handsome lead trio-- Manoj Kumar, Waheeda Rehman and Mumtaz-- contributed largely to the success of this production.

Here is a solo from this film. Shot beautifully against the backdrop of imposing mountains, it focuses exclusively on the charm of Waheeda Rehman; but for the fleeting appearance of Mumtaz towards the end. No change of costume for the leading lady and no army of accompanying dancers!

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Music: Laxmikant Pyarelal

Music In The Mountains: Seemaen Bulaaen Tujhe Chal Raahi

When I started working on the current theme, I knew that the majority of songs appearing here would have romance as the common thread. I also expected many songs that would talk about the Nature or seasons or beauty of the hills. While it is true that a large number of memorable songs belong to these categories, I would like to look out for songs that express other emotions. They will give more dimensions to this theme and make it more complete.

The number being featured today is from "LOC Kargil" (2003). It highlights the sacrifice of families who stay behind and send their loved ones to protect the borders of our country from the enemy. Javed Akhtar's words fill your heart with pride for our brave soldiers, making your eyes moist at the same time for those who wait for them at home.

Singer: Alka Yagnik
Lyrics: Javed Akhtar
Music: Anu Malik

Music In The Mountains: In Baharon Mein Akele Na Phiro

"Mamta" (1966) touched viewers' hearts with a good story, great music and superb performances by its lead actors: Ashok Kumar, Suchitra Sen and Dharmendra. Deftly directed by Asit Sen, this is a remake of his Bengali film 'Uttar Falguni'. Suchitra Sen featured in both the versions. She is spectacular in her dual role of mother and daughter. The film is a perfect example of how effective melodrama can be if presented with finesse and honesty. It is remembered for its gripping courtroom drama. Presenting a lovely duet from this film today.

Another song Rahen na rahen hum from the same film has appeared in this space in an earlier theme.

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Mohammad Rafi
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Music: Roshan

Music In The Mountains: Hum Aur Tum

Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore have been paired in some very successful films. Today's song is from one such film "Daag" (1973). Both were at the peak of their careers and had already appeared in 'Aradhana', 'Amar Prem', 'Safar', 'Chhoti Bahu' and some other films before coming together for this film.

Produced and directed by Yash Chopra, this film was written by Gulshan Nanda, based on Thomas Hardy's novel 'The Mayor of Casterbridge'. Nanda was a popular writer of romantic novels in Hindi at that time with a huge fan following. This film was a super hit. Raakhee provided the third dimension to this romantic drama.

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar
Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi
Music: Laxmikant Pyarelal

Music In The Mountains: O Meri O Meri O Meri Sharmilee

Gopaldas Saxena 'Neeraj' passed away yesterday at the age of 93. He was a prominent poet who was equally adept at writing in Hindi and Urdu. He served as a professor of Hindi literature at a college in Aligarh for many years. He has also written lyrics of some very popular songs in Hindi films. His monumental verse Karwan guzar gaya gubar dekhte rahe was used in the 1965 film 'Nai Umar Ki Nai Fasal'. Its highly philosophical and deeply meaningful words have been interpreted in many different ways from being gently hurtful to introspective to inspirational.

Today's song is a tribute to him. I was looking for something which would fit into our ongoing theme, and settled on this light-hearted, frothy solo from "Sharmilee" (1971). It was a super-hit film at its time with a good story and wonderful music. Raakhee is the leading lady in a very memorable double role, and Shashi Kapoor is the male lead. While referring to Raakhee's beautiful eyes, Neeraj has inserted his name very aptly in one of the lines of the song. That makes this a little more special!

Another song Aaj madhosh hua jaye re from the same film has appeared in this space in an earlier theme.

Singer: Kishore Kumar
Lyrics: Neeraj
Music: S. D. Burman

Music In The Mountains: Dil Tadap Tadap Ke

"Madhumati" (1958) is an iconic film. It was an ambitious project of Bimal Roy who produced and directed the film. It was adorned with great music by Salil Chowdhury and superb performances by the lead couple--Dilip Kumar and Vyjayanthimala--along with the rest of the cast. The story by Ritwik Ghatak was woven around the theme of reincarnation. It went on to win several awards.

Presenting a duet from this film today. In spite of the outdoor shoot, the song has a certain stillness about it. Dilip Kumar hardly moves while Vyjayanthimala's movements allow us to see the location as the camera follows her. She is a trained classical dancer, but her steps here are simple; suiting her character of an innocent village woman. Only her expressive eyes and face are a giveaway! This is a lovely song composed using elements of Hungarian folk music.

Another song Ghadi ghadi mora dil dhadke from the same film has appeared in this space in a different theme.

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Mukesh
Lyrics: Shailendra
Music: Salil Chowdhury

Music In The Mountains: Vaada Karo Jaanam

Enjoy a melodious duet today from "Sabse Bada Rupaiya" (1976). Mehmood produced this film, while S. Ramanathan is the director. Moushumi Chatterji and Vinod Mehra played the lead couple.

The duo Basu Manohari composed music for this film. Basudeb Chakraborty and Manohari Singh had both worked extensively with R. D. Burman as his assistants. They also worked independently as a team and composed musical scores for films. Both were very talented musicians in their own right, yet the effect of their association with R. D. Burman can be felt in this song.

Manohari Singh was a saxophonist, but he had also mastered several other western instruments. He was the main arranger for R. D. Burman and played saxophone in many memorable songs. Similarly Basudeb Chakraborty's contribution resulted in the creation of a large number of unforgettable songs. A big salute to the creativity of these geniuses!

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar
Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri
Music: Basu Manohari

Music In The Mountains: Yeh Hariyali Aur Yeh Rasta

It is amazing how alluring the hills and the surrounding landscape look in shades of black and white. We can think of different tones of green and blue and can visualise several versions of a given frame in our imagination. Today's song is a good example to try this! It is from "Hariyali Aur Rasta" (1962). It was a successful film in its time. It featured Manoj Kumar, Mala Sinha and Shashikala in lead roles. The director was Vijay Bhatt.

The film was shot extensively in Darjeeling. The cinematography is beautiful. And the happiness in Lata Mangeshkar's voice adds to the appeal of this solo, making the package an absolute delight for viewers and listeners!

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri
Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Music In The Mountains: Dil Dhoondhta Hai

Today's song is a two-in-one from "Mausam" (1975). The same lyrics. But one is a duet while the other is a solo. How wonderfully Bhupinder has brought playfulness in the duet and how effectively his solo evokes pathos!

Interestingly, there are other two-in-ones in the film. Sanjeev Kumar appears in two versions: a young man and his older self. Sharmila Tagore plays the dual role of mother and daughter. Written beautifully by Bhushan Banmali, Kamleshwar and Gulzar, and directed skilfully by Gulzar, it is a memorable film. It was written simultaneously with "Aandhi", and Sanjeev Kumar did a great job in both of them.

Gulzar's lyrics bring back memories of the days gone by, of soaking lazily in the winter sun and spending summer nights on beds spread out on terraces. How heartwarmingly nostalgic!

Another song Chhadi re chhadi from this film has appeared in this space in an earlier theme.

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Bhupinder
Lyrics: Gulzar
Music: Madan Mohan

Music In The Mountains: Subhanallah Jo Ho Raha Hai

A newer song this Sunday than all the others that have been posted so far in this theme. It is from "Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani" (2013). A successful film directed by Ayan Mukerji and produced by Karan Johar, it starred Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone along with Kalki Koechlin in a supporting role. Sreeramchandra (also mentioned as Sreerama Chandra or Sreerama Chandra Mynampati elsewhere) and Shilpa Rao are showing up for the first time in this space.

Another number Ghagra from the same film has appeared here in an earlier theme.

Singers: Shilpa Rao, Sreeramchandra
Lyrics: Amitabh Bhattacharya
Music: Pritam Chakraborty

Music In The Mountains: Kora Kaagaz Tha Yeh Mann Mera

The song being featured today is from one of the BIG films in the Hindi film industry. "Aradhana" (1969) had everything going for it. It excelled in every department, not only winning many awards; but also conquering people's hearts. All those who came together to create this classic seem to be at their best while making this film. And the result was spectacular!

Enjoy this phenomenal duet in which Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore light up the screen with their charm while the snowy peaks provide a breathtaking backdrop to them.

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar
Lyrics: Anand Bakshi
Music: S. D. Burman

Music In The Mountains: Main Chali Main Chali Peechhe Peechhe Jahaan

There is a certain charm about seeing a train winding its way in the mountains. Several Hindi films have featured song sequences shot in or on top of trains undulating on curvaceous tracks in scenic hilly areas. Here is one such duet from "Professor" (1962). This is a romantic comedy directed by Lekh Tandon. Shammi Kapoor played a young man and and an old man at the same time, putting his lovable antics to good use. The leading lady is Kalpana. I am amused to see that her outfit is completely in sync with what young women wear today. Coming from a 56-year-old film, it is quite interesting!

Singers; Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammad Rafi
Lyrics; Shailendra
Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Music In The Mountains: Chappa Chappa Charkha Chale

Deviating from the romantic songs that have appeared so far in this series, let us listen to a sturdy mountain song that is folkish in nature. Embellished with Gulzar's beautiful lyrics and Vishal Bhardwaj's lively composition, this is a number that makes us tap our feet and clap along with its energetic rhythm. This is from "Maachis" (1996), a film woven around the Sikh unrest in Punjab in the 1980s. In spite of the dark shadow of militancy in the background, this is a light-hearted song where friends rejoice and reminisce about their lovers/fiancees back home in rural Punjab. Along with penning the lyrics, Gulzar wrote and directed the film too. Tabu, Om Puri, Chandrachur Singh and Jimmy Shergill were part of the cast.

Singers: Hariharan, Suresh Wadkar
Lyrics: Gulzar
Music: Vishal Bhardwaj

Music In The Mountains: Husn Pahadon Ka

The lovely song I am featuring today is from "Ram Teri Ganga Maili" (1985), a super hit film produced and directed by Raj Kapoor. His youngest son Rajiv Kapoor and newcomer Mandakini played the lead couple. The film follows the course of the river Ganga from Gangotri to Kolkata, personified by the character played by Mandakini, also named Ganga. The title of the film aptly underlines the symbolism of how Ganga is fresh and pure at her source and how she gets polluted along the way.

Mandakini's real name was Yasmin Joseph. An anglo-Indian from Meerut, she was given her screen name by Raj Kapoor. She appeared in a few other films, but they were not as successful.

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Suresh Wadkar
Lyrics: Ravindra Jain
Music: Ravindra Jain

Music In The Mountains: Karvaten Badalte Rahe

This popular duet from "Aapki Kasam" (1974) has been shot entirely in the snow-clad peaks of Kashmir, making it very worthy of inclusion in the current theme. Rajesh Khanna and Mumtaz both sport winter clothes, not flimsy chiffons and summer casuals, as has been the trend in some later films. A sweet song with a cool backdrop!

Another song Suno kaho kaha suna from the same film has been posted in this space in an earlier theme.

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar
Lyrics: Anand Bakshi
Music: R. D. Burman

Music In The Mountains: Yeh Haseen Vaadiyan

"Roja" (1992) is a celebrated Tamil film written and directed by Mani Ratnam. It is a romantic thriller with patriotism woven in the story. Beautifully shot by acclaimed cinematographer Santosh Sivan, it tells the story of a young couple whose marital bliss is shattered by a heinous act of terrorism. The film was dubbed in Hindi, Marathi, Malayalam, and Telugu. It won several awards in different departments including best film and best music. This was A. R. Rahman's first film as a composer. Arvind Swamy and Madhoo play the lead couple.

Presenting a lovely duet from this film today. Enjoy the tuneful music and the breathtaking visuals!

Singers: Chithra K. S. , S. P. Balasubrahmanyam
Lyrics: P. K. Mishra
Music: A. R. Rahman

Music In The Mountains: Ae Ri Pawan

" Bemisal" (1982) is a Hrishikesh Mukherjee film starring Amitabh Bachchan, Raakhee, and Vinod Mehra. It is a remake of an Uttam Kumar film Ami Se O Shakha (1975), which in turn was based on a Bengali story by Ashutosh Mukherjee. The plot is all about friendship and sacrifice, an idea used in several other films.

Enjoy this beautiful solo from this film today.

Music In The Mountains: Is Mod Se Jaate Hain

It has been a long time since I updated this blog. Now starting with a fresh theme: Music In The Mountains. The idea is to enjoy melodious songs that have been shot in mountainous locations. Along with mountains, we will also get views of gurgling streams, luxurious valleys, flocks of sheep, towering conifers, snow-clad peaks, spectacular gardens, and colourful flowers. So, get ready for some wonderful audio-visual treats in the days to come!

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The first song to appear in this series is a superb duet from "Aandhi" (1975). This is an important film of its time. It is a political drama showcasing the trials and tribulations of a married couple where the wife is a career politician and the husband is a hotel manager. Suchitra Sen and Sanjeev Kumar play the lead couple. This was Suchitra Sen's last Hindi film. Vyjayanthimala was offered this role in the beginning, but she turned it down. 

Gulzar is the director, screenplay writer (with Bhushan Banmali) and lyricist, which makes this a sensitively handled, beautiful and meaningful film. The duet being featured today is supposed to have been shot in Pahalgam, Kashmir.

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar

Lyrics: Gulzar

Music: R. D. Burman