The ‘Mozart of Madras’ aka AR Rahman is celebrating his 57th birthday today. The artist known for his evergreen melodies has been applauded in many countries. He has won over the audience’s hearts with his heart-wrenching songs and tunes and continues to be a versatile star. The singer is attributed with six national awards namely- two Grammy awards, a Golden Globe award, a BAFTA award and a Padma Bhushan among many others.
Rahman begins his career in the 1990s with Mani Ratman’s Tamil film Roja. The music is still cherished by the masses and is accorded with high dignity. On his special day, let us revisit the lesser-heard masterpieces of the singer.
1. Hum Hain Iss Pal Yahan (Kisna, 2004)
AR Rahman aced his performance as a singer with the masterpiece Hum Hain Iss Pal Yahan. The song is the heart of the film and in many ways defines the charmistic aura of the film. Rahman only sang one song from the album, while other tunes were composed by Ismail Darbar. The soundtrack has a time exceeding up to 7:11, which would wrap up two songs altogether. However, during the 2000s there was an astonishing love for long songs, redefining the beautiful essence of love and romance.
2. Paigaam (Lakeer – Forbidden Lines, 2004)
One of the finest melodies from Lakeer – Forbidden Lines, which moves you eternally would be Paigaam. It marks even more unique as AR Rahman composed his own Tamil tunes in the song. It is a slow song which gradually seeps through your heart and makes you feel all the emotions at the same time. Shaan, known for his happy whole-some songs did a splendid job by singing an exceptional part here by sticking to the original theme of the song.
3. Mann Mohana (Jodhaa Akbar, 2008)
AR Rahman’s songs touched certain notions when he entered into the realm of Sufi music. The artist’s sufi songs are a boon to our ears and transport us instantly into a peaceful atmosphere. However, this bhajan from Jodhaa Akbar was being shadowed by the growing love for Sufi tunes. Man Mohana is sung sweetly by Bela Shinde. The noteworthy part of the track is a thematic backdrop which feels soothing to hear.
4. Aazadi (Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero, 2004)
AR Rahman has been appreciated for many patriotic songs that are cherished throughout the nation. However, this particular song from Aazadi is lesser known by the masses. It is all that Rahman can offer to the song with his melodic voice. Though the song has an orchestral chorus opening in the beginning, Rahman’s voice does all the magic when he holds the mike.
5. Phir Se Ud Chala (Rockstar, 2011)
One of the finest movies of Ranbir Kapoor and the major centre attention which goes to the song is appealing. AR Rahman has wonders in the film with his voice. Phir Se Ud Chala is a perfect travel song which never wants you to stop your journey and makes you going. It traces the feelings and thoughts of a wanderer who expresses the peculiarity of travelling through life. While Rahman creates his own tune in the ending part of the song, does it for the listener.
We at Business Upturn extend our heartfelt wishes to the legendary singer AR Rahman on his 57th birthday. We hope your beautiful melodies live through endless times and you captivate the world with your remarkable talent.
