Patriotic medley
Nothing binds India as well as music does. As we revel in the spirit of nationalism on India’s 66th Independence Day, it is interesting to revisit those songs that instill patriotism amongst us. Songs that epitomise a bygone era, the struggle, the valour, the sacrifice — songs that enthralled countrymen to rise up against any threat to Mother India.
Patriotism and Indian music have been blended together in countless melodies, in different moods and situations especially in cinema. And they do reinvigorate that pure feeling of belonging and nationalism every time you listen to them.
“If I had to recall one particular song that actually gives me goosebumps and makes me feel very patriotic, it would be the Vande Mataram rendition from the film Anandmath (1953), sung beautifully by Lata Mangeshkar,” says Shovana Narayan, Kathak exponent.
The song boasts of original lyrics, penned by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay. It remains one of the best tunes conveying the feelings of every Indian towards his motherland. Even the most recent rendition of the song by music maestro A.R. Rahman, released in 1997 at the confluence of India’s 50th Independence Day, is also equally popular.
In 1964, Haqeeqat, a war film directed by Chetan Anand had a beautiful song, Kar chale hum Fida, Jaano Tan Saathiyon, sung by Mohammed Rafi, that garnered huge popularity. “I just love the lyrics of this song. It is a landmark song that every Indian must listen to and be proud of. I would also add Ae mere watan ke logon to my list of favourite patriotic songs,” says singer and Indian Idol 1 winner, Abhijit Sawant. Ae mere watan ke logon was written by Kavi Pradeep in commemoration of the Indian soldiers, who died during the Sino-Indian war. It is said that when Lata Mangeshkar performed this song live in front of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, he was moved to tears.
“I really love the song Dil diya hain jaan bhi denge from the film Karma (1986). Every time I listen to this song, I wish I had been a part of the Indian army,” adds Amaan Ali Bangash, sarod player.
Moving closer to our times, who can forget the soulful song sung by Hariharan for the film Roja (1992), Bharat humko jaan se pyara hain? “For me, the song brings warmth and patriotic fervour. It starts on a soft tone and moves on to a powerful crescendo. The lyrics are outstanding,” says singer Shaan.
Amongst the recent numbers, Chak De! India’s title track became a massive hit. “The song I can associate with this special day is Chak De India. Somehow, the song evokes a patriotic feeling in me that no other song does. Also, it was released in a year when I was doing well in my career and every time, I listened to the song, it boosted my morale.” Gaganjeet Bhullar, professional golfer.
Post new comment