At the historical concert on the occasion of Noorjehan’s return to Bombay after 35 years, in 1982, Saajan ki galiyan chood chale was Lata Mangeshkar’s reply to her Didi’s Aawaaz de kahan hain. It was difficult to say which song excelled the other. No list of the best songs of Lata Mangeshkar is complete without Saajan ki galiyan chhod chale (Bazaar, 1949) and Baharein phir bhi ayengi magar hum tum juda honge (Lahore,1949), both composed by Shyam Sundar. These songs were integral to creating Lata Mangeshkar Tsunami, along with the songs from Barsaat (Shankar-Jaikishan), Andaaz, Dulari (Naushad), Patanga (C Ramchandra), Ek Thi Ladki (Vinod), Laadli (Anil Biswas), Badi Bahan (Husnlal-Bhagatram) and Mahal (Khemchand Prakash), in 1949.
Talking of Noorjehan, the songs that come at the top of your mind are Baithi hun teri yaad ka lekar ke sahara and Kis tarah bhoolega dil unka khayal aya hua (Village Girl, 1945). This film also had the first song of Rafi in Hindi films, a duet with GM Durrani, Aji dil ho kaaboo mein to dildaar ki aisi taisi. While there could be some doubt as to Rafi’s first Hindi film song, because Pahle Aap (1944, Naushad), containing Rafi’s voice in chorus in some songs, was released first, there is no doubt that the credit for discovering him, in Lahore, goes to Shyam Sundar. As the story goes, he had accompanied KL Saigal to Lahore for the musical conference in 1937/38 where a power breakdown made the crowd restive. Someone suggested that a young lad Rafi sing in his powerful voice. This brought order. An impressed Saigal blessed him, and Shyam Sundar gave him his first break in a Punjabi film, Gul Baloch (1941/42), in the song Soniyeni heeriyeni teri yaad ne bahut sataya (duet with Zeenat Begum). Later, he created many memorable songs for Rafi.
Shyam Sundar was not only central to the career of the three greatest singers, Noorjehan, Lata Mangeshkar and Rafi, he takes the sole credit for Sulochana Kadam’s fame with Chori chori aag si dil mein lagakar chal diye and Mausam aya hai rangeen (Dholak, 1951). He was to her what Naushad was to Uma Devi (Tun Tun) with Afsana likh rahi hun (Dard, 1947). Early 50s was the glorious period for Talat Mahmood, and Shyam Sundar composed one of his best songs, Mere naghmon mein un mastana aankhon ki kahani hai (Alif Laila, 1953). In the Vintage Era, he composed one of the best songs for GM Durrani, Neend hamari khwab tumhare kitne meethe kitne pyare (Nai Kahani, 1943). Shyam Sundar’s career was short, spanning about 14 years (1939-1953) in which he gave music for only 4 Punjabi and 20 Hindi films. This period overlapped with the giants of film music, like Anil Biswas, Naushad and C Ramchandra, yet his genius was well-recognised, and he was literally called Pandit Shyam Sundar. Manek Premchand writes in his ‘Yesterday’s Melodies Today’s Memories’ that every time Shyam Sundar’s name came up in OP Nayyar’s presence, his hand would hold his earlobes, in the manner of showing reverence, Oh, what a musician! That was some tribute by the most famous exponent of the Punjab School to his senior from that School of music. Addiction to alcohol has led to the fall of many artistes in the film world. It is said that Shyam Sundar often lost control of himself and was given to using abusing language under the influence of liquor. Lata Mageshkar took serious offence at one such episode during the recording of the songs of Lahore. She, however, did sing some songs for him in later years, but his excesses took heavy toll on his work and heath. He died prematurely in 1953 when he was engaged with the music of Alif Laila. His chief assistant Madan Mohan, another genius from Punjab, had a deep respect for him. He completed the unfinished score of the film, though HFGK gives the entire credit for the music of this film to Shyam Sundar. Not much is known about Shyam Sundar except that he was from Lahore and was a great admirer of Ghulam Haider. For sometime he played the violin in the orchestra of Ustad Jhande Khan. He gave music to some Punjabi films 1939 onwards. His earliest Hindi films are Nai Kahani (1943) and Bhai (1944). Despite his short career and his personal blemishes, he remains one of the greats of Hindi film music. My first article on the theme ‘Greatness in the shadow of the giants’ was on Bulo C Rani. Pandit Shyam Sundar is another genius worthy of this category. Let me present some of his immortal songs as my tribute to him. Since I am confining myself to his most popular songs, most of these would be already known to the readers, or would have appeared on this blog earlier.
1. Neend hamari khwab tumhare by GM Durrani from Nai Kahani (1943), lyrics Wali Saheb
I start this post with the most memorable song by GM Durrani. The song is made even more beautiful by Sargam taan by a 12-year old boy, Balak Ram, who went on to act and sing some more songs in films.
2. Baithi hun teri yaad ka lekar ke sahara by Noorjehan from Village Girl (1945), lyrics Wali Saheb
Just as Neend hamari was the apogee of his career, Baithi hun teri yaad ka is one of the immortal songs of Norrjehan.
3. Piya milan ko jaanewali sambhal sambhal ke chal by Amirbai Karnataki from Dev Kanya (1946)
Amirbai Karnataki was one of the leading singers of the Vintage Era. Though she does not seem to be one of the favourites of Shyam Sundar, he composed a great song for her.
4. Ae dil meri aahon mein itna to asar aye by Rafi from Actress (1948), lyrics Nakhshab Jarachavi
Actress was a high point in Shyam Sundar’s career with several excellent songs by Rafi and Shamshad Begum. Readers would recall a superb Rafi solo, Hum apne dil ka fasana unhein suna na sake. Ae dil meri aahon mein is another equally great song from the early career of Rafi.
5. Saajan ki galiyan chod chale dil roya aansoo bah na sake by Lata Mangeshkar from Bazaar (1949), lyrics Qamar Jalalabadi
Now we come to the landmark song of Lata Mangeshkar which she chose for the historic concert in 1982, to a deafening applause by the audience. In the review of the best songs of 1949, I had included 7 songs from this film (out of 16) in the list of memorable songs.
6. Challa de ja nishani teri meharbani by Rafi, Satish Batra and Shamshad Begum from Bazaar (1949), lyrics Qamar Jalalabadi
From a soulful, poignant melody, Shyam Sundar switches to the other extreme of a frothy and joyful dance song. This is as good a full-blast Punjabi style as any. Gope on the harmonium lip-synchs in the voice of Satish Batra, the hero Shyam, obviously, in the voice of Rafi, and the unknown lady dancer (she has been identified as Mangala on Atul Song A Day) singing in the voice of Shamshad Begum.
7. Ae mohabbat unse milne ka bahana ban gaya by Rafi and Lata Mangeshkar from Bazaar (1949), lyrics Qamar Jalalabadi
Sitting between the above two ends is this absolutely charming romantic duet between Rafi and Lata Mangeshkar. Picturised as a stage song, the lovers Shyam and Nigar Sultana avail the opportunity to express their love which is so evident in the way they look at each other. This song is at the top of my list of the best Rafi-Lata duets.
8. Nazar se door jaanewale….Baharein phir bhi ayengi by Lata Mangeshkar from Lahore (1949), lyrics Rajendra Krishna
Lata Mangeshkar might as well have chosen this song instead of Saajan ki galiyan chhod chale for the 1982 concert to a similar impact. Madan Mohan must have been thoroughly mesmerised by this song to compose Hamare baad ab mehfil mein afsaane bayan honge (Baaghi, 1953), an obvious inspiration.
9. Duniya hamaare pyar ki yun hi jawan rahe by Karan Dewan and Lata Mangeshkar from Lahore (1949), lyrics Rajendra Krishna
Karan Dewan was famous as a surprise hit actor, he was as much a surprise singer. Among several of his hit songs, this duet is very well-known to the lovers of old film music. Shyam Sundar creates an everlasting romantic duet.
10. Thandi hawa ke jhonke by Shamshad Begum from Bhai Bahan (1950), lyrics IC Kapoor
This is among my great favourites of Shamshad Begum. When Punjab combines with Punjab, the impact is bound be doubly joyful.
11. Saza mili hai kisi se ye dil lagaane ki by Suraiya from Kamal Ke Phool (1950), lyrics Rajendra Krishna
Kamal Ke Phool is not counted among Shyam Sundar’s great scores, but it presents a difficult choice for me, as there are at least three songs from this film which I absolutely love. There is a pleasant song by Suraiya besotted with love for someone: Koi dil mein samaya chupke chupke. Shamshad Begum shows her typical exuberance in Thoda thoda pyar thodi thodi takraar ho. In our films, especially with Suraiya, some roadblock would come in the way of the lovers, making her sing a sad song of dejection.
12. Chori chori aag si dil mein lagakar chal diye by Sulochana Kadam from Dholak (1951), lyrics Shyamlal ‘Shams’
This song speaks for itself. I regard this as what Afsana likh rahi hun was to Uma Devi.
13. Kya raat suhani hai by Rafi and Lata Mageshkar from Alif Laila (1953), lyrics Sahir Ludhiyanavi
Shyam Sundar repeats his magic in the last film of his career in this Rafi-Lata Mangeshkar duet.
14. Mere naghmon mein un mastana aankhn ki kahani hai by Talat Mahmood from Alif Laila (1953), lyrics Sahir Ludhiyanavi
I end this post with this superb song by Talat Mahmood from Shyam Sundar’s last film. In 1953 Talat Mahmood was at the peak of his career, having six out of ten songs in my review of the best male solo songs of the year. Mere naghmon mein was obviously one of them.
Acknowledgements:
1. Dr Sandeep Rai has written an exhaustive article on Shyam Sundar’s music at https://apnaarchive.wordpress.com/2012/10/29/shyam-sundar-a-genius-composer/
2. Atul Song A Day
3. Pankaj Raag’s ‘Dhunon Ki Yatra’
Disclaimer: The song videos have been linked from YouTube only for the listening pleasure of the music lovers. This blog acknowledges that the copyright over this songs rests with the respective owners, such as Saregama India Limited and others.
{ 136 comments… read them below or add one }
AK ji ,
Nice article on a talented music director .
Yes , the दारु की बोतल had ruined the life of many gr8 film personalities.
I would like to add one more song from ढोलक
https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2ie9nu
Ak ji ,
Regarding the above song posted by me ,
I will always be grateful to Shyam Sunder as Sulochana Kadam did nt get a chance to sing such romantic numbers in Marathi as she became popular as a लावणी singer .
Well , in case of अलिफ लैला , I like बहार आई खिली कलियाँ
What an orchestration , the मुखडा of the song nd the heavenly voice of Lata .
( Somewhere the song reminded
ऐ दिलरुबा नजरें मिला of रुस्तम सोहराब )
Let me give a link to that song .
https://youtu.be/xXqvvh1qviQ
Akji,
Glad to find that the first article from you repository this year is on Pandit Shyam Sundar of the Punjab Gharana of film music. Let me too join you in paying tributes to the brilliant composer of yester-years. It is unfortunate that he died too early. Thanks Akji for presenting some little known facets of his life. Would listen to the songs in leisure and get back soon.
A great collection of songs AKji.
Some of my absolute favorite duets, like, Ae mohobbat unse milane ka and duniya hamare pyar ki feature on the list. Thanks for including the songs. I am completely in love with the songs.
A pity that he was alcoholic and ruined his career, he could have offered more songs, if he would have survived.
He certainly was the one, who brought Sulochana Kadam to limelight and offered her some of his excellent songs. Though they worked together after Dholak for a few films,( I can name Mukhda as a relatively known film,) they couldn’t recreate the earlier magic.
I would add some of my favorites, to the list.
Ek bewafa ki yaad ne-suraiya-char din
https://youtu.be/B0SV4BcWYZk
Aankhon aankhon Mein from actress
https://youtu.be/t_pBCH_ReH0
interesting duet, where one character sings happily and the other in agony.
Thanks and congratulations for the wonderful post.
🙂
Shyam Sunder not only gave Rafi his very first song in Punjabi, but also his very first in Hindi: a duet with G M Durrani in VILLAGE GIRL,1945.
Aji dil pe ho qaabu dildar ki aisi taisi.
https:// youtu.be/ JWfQ89GtGKg
But, since PEHLE AAP released first,1944, Hindustan ke hum( Naushad) became Rafi’s first Hindi song.
DHOLAK has a peppy Halla Gulla laai laa.. Rafi, Shamshad Begum,Satish Batra…chulbuli Meena Shorey on screen.
https:// youtu.be/ JXyGsfRsnpY
AK ji,
Thanks for the post.
For many years, I was under the impression that Shyam Sunder was a composer duo.
Village Girl, Lahore and Bazaar stand tall.
This seems to be only song (duet) that Mukesh sang for him. Incidentally, it’s probably the only song Mukesh sang with Premlata.
https://youtu.be/Us-MKTawwTA
Listened to the 14 songs from 10 films posted here. After listening to the songs the obvious question that arises is why such a legendary music composer has completely been forgotten? It seems he passed away when he was at his best. Very sad indeed. I once again thank you for reviving the memory of this completely forgotten genius composer Shyam Sunder.
Neend hamari khwab tumhare is nice song and we can see some musical instruments in the visual, like Violin, Flute, Trumpet,Saxophone, Bass Cello, Piano, Sarangi and Tabla. There is another song in the same film rendered again by
G M Durrani where you can see similar instruments in addition to Xylophone, Sitar, Clarinet etc. The same child artist can also seen in the visuals. Is he Balakram? Here is the song.
Hame Kya Ab Khizan Jaye Na Jaye film Nai Kahani (1943)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BuH-dssNF6M
For the film Bhai (1944), it appears that Shyam Sundar had composed music for only ree songs, while the music for the other five songs was composed by Ghulam Hyder. I am presenting two songs from Bhai.
Kuch Yaad Dilati Hai by Naseem Akhtar, lyrics Shatir Ghaznavi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddGn6w-2l1k
Duniya Ki Ye Khushi Hai by Zeenat Begum, lyrics Shatir Ghaznavi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU2fv2er8C0
AK ji ;
A fantastic one from a dedicated persuation of slow rise of graph of western tunes that started from Punkaj Malik , C Ramchandra , SJ, ….and then Shyam Sunder followed parallel by Vinod. To me the style of composition of Vinod was very close to Shyam Sunder. Think of presence of Sulochana Kadam , Meena Shorey , Punjabi songs in hindi films and hindi songs in punjabi films , presence of sad and happy songs in every movie and western based club lounge music…a few based on punjabi tappe .
WoW ; both the MDs qualifying for Tendum treatment .!! one with …halla gula laiyi la…..other with …Lara lappa laara lappa !
A starter from my side ….a song with beautiful support of fine western touching instrumentation adding to melody, beats and rhythm.
Chhalak raha hai….Sulochana….Dholak [1951]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SbMzudugVU
…..for more after listening to full loaded songs.
AKji:
Wonderful post on a musical genius. This series on ‘Greatness in the shadow of the giants” is turning out to be very promising indeed. Looking forward to more on other greats. Here are two of my favourite Shyam Sundar songs. The first is ‘Basalo apni nigahon mein’ (Lata in Bazaar):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LSw53hDefCo
And the second is ‘Jalti hai duniya’ (Talat in Kamal ke phool):
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1VxrtNDOvRM
CHAAR DIN song Saajan ghar jaanewale Manzil door nahin hai tera has Premlata singing with Master Sonik. We know, the ‘ blind musician’ of DIL DEKE DEKHO,(and later Sonik Omi) had sung for a few films. Same Sonik?
For the above mentioned song
https:// youtu.be/lwwhFWLh_nM
Shyam Sundar most productive years were 1945-47 and 1949-51. In the former period he scored music for 8 films and the later period he scored music for 9 films.
In the 1945 film Bhai Jaan Noorjehan was the lead actress. There were 9 songs in this film. Noor Jehan sang 4 solos in this film. But it was recorded in the voice of Zeenat Begum as per Anant Thakur, the recordist (source HFGK).
Let listen to one of the songs, ‘Chupke Se Dil Me Aa Base’ recorded by Zeenat Begum, film Bhai Jaan (1945), lyrics Partau Lakhnavi
https://gaana.com/song/chupke-chupke-se-dil-men-aa-base
Another song rendered by S D Batish in the same film, Aa Hosh Me Diwano
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xBV0_Z3dEdc
Pramodji @1, 2
Thanks for your appreciation and for adding the fabulous duet Magar ae haseena-e-bekhabar, one of great favourites. It resembles so closely to Ae mohabbat unse milne ka bahana ban gaya (#7). You are very right Bahar ayi khili kaliyan evokes same feelings as Ae dilruba.
Venkataramanji @3, 8, 13,
Thanks a lot for your appreciation and adding all the beautiful songs. You have expanded the list of Shyam Sundar’s singers by adding Naseem Akhtar and Zeenat Begum.
You are right, the child artist in Hamein kya ab khizan jaye na jaye is the same Balak Ram we saw in Neend hamari khwab tumhare.
There were many talented composers, some achieved super stardom. They were lucky. Others, possibly equally talented, were relegated under the shadows. But Shyam Sundar is unforgettable for music lovers who are deeply into the Vintage and the Golden Eras.
The best example of the ‘Greatness in the shadows of the giants’ is Ghulam Mohammad who had to literally live under the shadows of Naushad.
Anup,
Thanks a lot for your appreciation. I am very fond of Ek bewafa ki yaad ne. Thanks for adding it. Since visuals are not there in the link Aankhon aankhon mein wo dil se dil ki baat kah gaye, we can’t visualise its picturization. But let me add a clear example of a happy-sad duet from Dard (1947). Munawwar Sultana seems to have lost in love, whereas Suraiya’s is on track, obviously for the same guy.
Betaab hai dil dard-e-mohabbat ke asar se by Uma Devi and Suraiya from Dard (1947), lyrics Shakeel Badayuni, music Naushad
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=DzqvVpLG7Z4
Dr Shetty @5, 6, 11, 12,
I have mentioned Rafi’s first Hindi film song issue between Shyam Sundar (Village Girl, 1945) and Naushad (Pahle Aap, 1944) in my post, which you have adverted to in your comment. Thanks for adding Halla gulla lai la and so many ‘new’ songs.
You are right, Master Sonik is the same person who went on to partner his nephew Omiji to form the duo Sonik-Omi.
Mahesh @7,
I am happy you liked the post and thanks for the ‘sole’ Mukesh song. Since you mention it, it is interesting none of the music directors of the Punjab School used Mukesh in any significant manner. And that was when he was at the peak of his career. They obviously found Rafi a natural fit for their style. Rafi, of course, gave them superlative songs.
KS Bhatiaji,
Thanks a lot for your appreciation. You have made a very perceptive observation of tandem between Halla gulla laai la and Lara lappa lara lappa. But the overall tandem between Vinod and Shyam Sundar is not very strong. Asha Bhosle was quite a favourite singer for Vinod, that was not the case for Shyam Sundar. The former used Talat Mahmood quite generously, the latter used him quite sparingly.
Canasya @10,
Thanks a lot for your appreciation. Both the songs you have added are my favourites.
AKji,
here’s the link for the video of the song from Actress.
Aankhon Aankhon Mein Woh
Rehana and Meena Shorey
https://youtu.be/_SKd7-j7ZsE
The audio quality is poor, so I didn’t link it yesterday.
Anup
🙂
And, I had included the song from dard, in my post on Shakil badayuni.
A good song
Anup,
Thanks.
I would add the Rafi masterpiece in Bazaar as one of the best of Shyam Sundar:
Shaheedon tumko mera salaam !
AK,
Thanks for the great tribute, Shyam Sunder’s work is as good as the giant’s.
Shamshad Begum too has one of her best song under his direction.
Mere dil me aayi ye Dholak
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=yQucmqOvEG4
Dholak has interesting songs.
Lata Rafi chemistry so early in their career is amazing in this duet.
Aise Rasiya ka kya aitbar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=2&v=ul392vtRWAg
Like this one too.
Chand ki sunder nagri me
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=9&v=z61X7eMEbiQ
AK ji,
Thanks for writing on my favourite MD, Shyamsundar.
Ref. to ‘ Not much is known about Shyam Sundar ‘….
Here is some more information about him…
Shyamsunder Gabba was born in Multan (now in Pakistan). He was an expert Violin player and used to play in Jhande Khan’s orchestra in the early stage of his career. He started with Punjabi films from 1939. He gave break to Mohd. Rafi in Punjabi film ‘Gul Baloch’. He also gave chance to singer Trilok Kapoor in Bhai Behan-50. Nai kahani-41 was the beginning of his bright career and village girl-45,Lahore-49 and Bazar-49 were his pinnacle. He composed 187 songs in 20 films.He died on 15th July 1952. According to his widow- whom Hamraz ji had met in Delhi- Shyamsunder died due to Jaundice. His son runs a Stationary stores in Delhi, but has absolutely no information about his father’s work and refuses to talk to anyone on this subject.
-AD
Mumbaikar8,
Thanks a lot for your appreciation. Chaand ki sundar nagri mein is an absolutely gorgeous song. Heard for the first time. Thanks a lot for adding it.
Arunji,
Thanks a lot for the additional information. Is Nai Kahani from 1941 or 1943. Just wanted to confirm. I am surprised that Shyam Sundar’s son should be so diffident to talk about his great father. It is not likely that he would be ignorant about his music.
AK ji,
Sorry. It is Nai Kahani 1943.
No surprise. I have known some offsprings of famous actors and musicians, who have actually no knowledge about their father’s or mother’s histrionic achievements or singing careers.
-AD
Wow AKji, what a brilliant share, to bring forth such gems, some big favourites, and some that I have not heard before.
I would like to say here that I happened to attend the glorious Mortal Men Immortal Memories function at Shanmukhananda Hall in the first half of February 1982, just a few days before I got married …It is so well etched in my mind…Especially the glorious Awaaz de kahan hai, by Noor Jehan, who walked in shimmering in her black sequiens laden saree, and introduced in Thet Urdu by Dilip Kumar. and the emotional coming together of all the music fraternity. ….
AKji @15
“The best example of the ‘Greatness in the shadows of the giants’ is Ghulam Mohammad who had to literally live under the shadows of Naushad.” Very true. Even when he got recognition posthumously for Pakeezah, many thought Naushad had a hand in the music composition of Pakeezha.
Dholak (1951) & Bazar (1949) appears to be two of the most popular scores of Shyama Sundar and fairly so.
Speaking of Dholak, you have posted one of my favourite song Chori chori aag si dil mein lagakar chal diye, a Sulochan Kadam solo. This song can be considered as the precursor to similar songs which came later. Sulochana Kadam had four songs in this film, two solos and two duets. The other solo Chhalak Raha Hai Nigaaho Se Pyar Thoda was posted by Bhatiji , a beautiful melody. Pramodji has posted the duet Magar Ae Hasina-E-Bekabar, another treat to the ears. I am posting the other duet Mausam Aaya Hai Rangin mentioned by you. Enthralling Orchestration and superb use of Dholak.
Mausam Aaya Hai Rangeen by Sulochana Kadam & Satsh Batra, Lyrics Aziz Kashmiri
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQCAy77QHsM
Out of the remaining 5 songs from this film Pradipji has posted the sprightly song Halla Gulla Lai Lai and Mumbaikarji another 3 songs from this film, all three made good listening, especially the last song. That leaves us with a duet Ek Pal Rukh jana Sarkar by Md.Rafi and Lata Mangeshkar.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPKad3WT-jA
Sangeetaji,
Thanks a lot for you appreciation. You are so lucky to have been present at the historical concert in 1982. In that case you must remember Lata Mangeshkar’s Saajan ki galiyan chhod chale. I think she also sang Allah tero naam, Ishwar tero naam to a huge applause.
Vankataramanji,
Till now I had not given much thought to Mausam aya hai rangeen. But its picturisation is a visual and aural treat. Thanks for mentioning it again. Ek pal ruk jana sarkaar is a very nice song. It is so intersting to see Ajit in a romantic lead. It is difficult to believe that some of the most delightful songs were pcturised on him. Looking at the picturisation of songs closely, do you notice something very odd about Magar ae haseena-e-bekhabar? The tune is that of a soulful, soft, romantic duet, in the style of Ae mohabbat unse milne ka bahana ban gaya. You would never believe that it is a song of two quarrelling lovers putting down each other. We have often talked about a great song marred by its picturisation. Here there is nothing wrong with the picturisation. This is a rare case of the tune being completely out of tune with the lyrics. In spite of this oddity, I must say this song is one of my absolute favourites.
Magar ae haseena-e-bekhabar by Rafi and Sulochana Kadam from Dholak (1951), lyrics Aziz Kashmiri, music Shyam Sundar
The total number of songs sung by Sachin Dev Burman must be just 16. Of these, only 4 were for other composers ( including the Doli mein bitaayke kahaar for RDB,AMAR PREM).
In this light, the ARSI ,1947 song Aashiyan Apne loota apni nazar ke samne ( lyrics: Sarsar Shailani) is important, though we have no means of knowing whether it is composed by Shyam Sunder or LachiRam.
https:// youtu.be/ 14GPECzJVJU
Vankataramanji,
Thanks of completing the album, I was thinking of doing it, all of them good listening.
AK,
I watched the song Magar ai Hasina lokks like in its miniaturization, the lead pair is pretending to be quarreling to send some wrong signal to their spectator parents. Correct me if I am wrong.
Dr. Shetty,
We may not know who the Md is of Arsi song but the I think the singer is name is incorrect too.I doubt very much it is S D Burman it could probably be the otherr SDB S D Batish
Time for songs
O janewale ja Rafi Bazaar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=83&v=_4b2gw68DBg
and the chilling partition song from Lahore by Manna dey Bhagwan kahan hai
https://youtu.be/eocbdh6Xo14
Mumbaikar8,
I have not seen the movie. You might well be right that the lovers are pretending to be quarrelling. But my point remains that for a nok-jhonk song the tune is discordant to the lyrics. The song is per se great.
comment no. 34 and 35
The Arsi song ‘ aashiyan apna luta ‘ is sung by S D Batish as per HFGK also and is composed by Shyamsunder as mentioned on the record label.
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Thanks AK for this wonderful introduction to a forgotten genius. I had discovered ‘Sajan ki galiyan chhod chale’ while researching my article on Pahadi, and it completely charmed me. It brings out the longing of this raga as few other songs do. The other 13 songs in the list confirm that this was not a one-off thing, but typical of his work in general.
Subodh,
Thanks a lot for your appreciation.
AK Ji;
Surviving in a domain …..dominated by Giants of those times…..is greatness of Shyam Sunder. He remained calm and there was no indication of him being a struggler . The way he brought out best with every singer of his times is truly amazing.
Here are some cross section of songs by different singers…… covering even those which were less heard .
Mere Pi Hain Jahan Mujhko Le Chal Wahan…..Shamshad….Nirdosh [1950]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic9rRR3oywA
Hum teri gali se door…Krishna Goyal….Kaale Badal[1951]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5yE95aBdJU&t=54s
Tadapna Aur Chup Rehna,Mohabbat Aur Kya Hogi….G M Durrani….Kaale Badal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9a-eXU_Gyc
Here is a gem of a song . Lata ji at her sweetest voice and melody par excellence…..
Woh humse door…..Lata….Nirdosh [1950]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jWiHwztvHc
…..to be contd.
….in continuation….yes melody continuing with this charming song….
-Ulfat Jise Kehte Hain Jeene Ka Sahara Hai…..Sulochana Kadam…Kale Badal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSiKEY3UFr4
Dil Kisi Se Laga Ke-Hum Wafa Karte Rahe…..Pushpa Hans…Kale Badal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ufu3C8tACh4
Naacho naacho mere dil….Dilshad Begam…..EK Roz[1947]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RDKAyqS8B2o
Aayi Aayi Udan Khatole Pe Chadh Kar Sawan Ki Rani….Singer ?…Nai Kahani [1943]..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_aJKj7jZvc
AK,
I understand your point… I have not seen the movie either my assumption comes from the video you posted @33 starting 1.20 to 1.40
Arunji.
Thanks for the information on SDB song, I was positive that singer is not S D Burman S D Baatish was calculated guess.
I have one more request about two Asha Bhosle songs from Alif Laila, Who is the composer? Shyam Sunder or Madan Mohan.
Dilon Ke Shikaar Ko Kataar Leke Aayi │ Asha Bhosle │ Alif Laila
https://youtu.be/1-KnH9H5vr0
ALIF LAILA – RAATEIN PYAR KI BEET JAYENGI
https://youtu.be/ZGnS8WlBJ1o
@42
Both the songs were composed by Shyam Sunder. Sole lyrist for the film was Sahir Ludyanvi. There is another wonderful song by Talat Mahmood sung in his inimitable style – Yeh bebasi mere halakar
https://youtu.be/HLL_1E5Man8?t=102
Mr. Rangan.
Thanks
Mumbaikar 8 @ 42
All songs of this film are credited to Shyamsunder.
It is well known that 2 songs were composed and recorded by his assistant Madan Mohan for that film, but MM never revealed those songs and totally refused to take any credit for any work that he did.
If someone is mentioning some songs as by MM, I feel, it will be only a guess work.
Even his official site also does not mention any song from Alif-Laila-53.
-AD
Yes AKji, I do remember Latajis renditions vividly. But the memory is fading with time. The dramatic ones are vivid. Noor Jahan also sang – Ja aj to main teri tu mera, a beautiful Punjabi song
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VWjHHXeilSg
with all the adayein to go with it…
But what stood out were the stellar performances of Lataji and alongside was this beautiful renditon by Rajkumari ji….
Ghabra ke hum jo sar ko from Mahal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BENqkVvRaL8
Very rightly said Arunkumarji @ 45….
There is no official statement or record giving with song MMji completed for Alif Laila
But it is said that he completed the songs after the death of Shyamsundarji.
Akji @33
I am happy that you like both the songs Mausam aya hai rangeen , Ek pal ruk jana sarkaar.
Coming to the song Magar ae haseena-e-bekhabar Mumbaikarji (@35) assumption was partially right. Manmohan Krishna (Prof. Anand) and his associate Krishna (Rajni) run a music school and they employ only unmarried people. Ajit (Manohar) declares himself to be a bachelor and Meena Shorey (Mona) too pretends to be unmarried to get a job in their school, which they desperately need. Though not married legally, due to some misunderstanding both believe that they were married. In this song, Manohar and Mona, who being subjected to overtures of love by Rajni and Manmohan Krishna respectively, were playacting. In fact I felt both Mona and Manohar were waiting to fall into one another’s arms. They had to wait for some time for the inevitable to happen. This song is one of my favourite romantic duets.
.
Do you remember Ajit addressing Bindu as Mona Darling in Yadon ki Baraat? Is it the case of old memory revived?
Sulochana Kadam had rendered another song for Shyam Sundar in the film Mukhda in the same year (1951). I believe it is only song composed by Shyam Sundar for this film.
Aakhiya Mila Ke Aankhiyo Ki Nind Chura Ke Naa Ja by Sulochana Kadam, film Mukhda(1951), lyrics Aziz Kashmiri
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=151&v=_uBQPY8v7h4
I want to draw attention to the uncanny similarity between Aise rasiya ka kya from dholak
https://youtu.be/ul392vtRWAg
And, sun Lo sajan meri baat from lahore
https://youtu.be/WcZ-TCrfEWc
The mukhda is exact copy, but a few changes in verses.
The tunes are otherwise the same.
AKji,
Do you feel the same or just my imagination?
Bhatiaji
Listened to songs posted at #40 ). Four songs were from Kaale Badal (1951), Sulochana Kadam, Pushpa Hans, Krishna Goel and G M Durrani. All of them made good listening. Incidentally Sulochana Kadam and Krishna Goel made their debut in the year 1947 for the film Krishna Sudama. Krishna Goel’s songs for Dahej came up for discussion in “Best songs of 1950’. Hum teri gali se door was the only song he rendered for Shyam Sundar. Sulochana Kadam renderd 4 songs in this film.
I am posting her other three songs from this film Kaale Baadal (1951).
Kisi Majbur Ka Jalta Hua Ghar by Sulochana Kadam, lyrics Rajindra Krishan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GSRP0mR-vHs
Dil Hi Dil Me Royenge Hum by Sulochana Kadam, lyrics Rajindra Krishan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwAef7OSmWI
Teri Nazar Ne Meri Nazar Se Keh Di by Sulochana Kadam, lyrics Rajindra Krishan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_-fBsnFqbc
Atul @ 49
Nice observation.
Sorry Anup for addressing you as Atul.
Arunji,
Thanks you so much for responding to my request and clearing all doubts.
Yo are such an asset. और क्या कहूँ .
Sangeetaji thanks to you too for stamping it.
Anup @ 49
You got it!
Whirl was on but could not get it.
Good job.
Ye meri chalti phirti laash kal ghairon ke ghar hogi by Lata is a beautiful song and the only one sung by her for this film. Nirdosh was primarily Shamshad Begum’s film, she rendered 8 out of the ten songs, one of them a duet with Satish Batra. Meena Kapoor also rendered one song. Here is the song.
Dil ke tukade tujhe seene se laga lu by Meena Kapoor, film Nirdosh (1950), lyrics Raja Mehdi Ali Khan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eMVV_mEg-WE
Venkataramanji
Your zest and contribution remains as intense as earlier. Your absence would be keenly felt in future. Better be in limelight hereafter. I think there is another song by Asha Bhonsle and Manna Dey in film Talaq in a similar vein
https://youtu.be/XDALCYSMxlQ?t=129
AK,
Quickly browsed through the article and the comments. Will go through them in detail at my leisure. A tribute to this lesser-known genius was long overdue on this forum and I am glad that we finally have it now. I count ‘Saajan ki galiyaan’ and ‘Duniya hamaare pyaar ki’ as two of my favourites, and I’ve been in awe of ‘Bahaaren phir bhi aayengi’ ever since I heard it for the first time on a cassette of Nargis songs that I bought in Karol Bagh in 1986. A couple of my observations:
1. The tunes of the mukhdas of ‘Saajan ki galiyaan’ and ‘Meri aankhon mein bas gaya koyi re’, another Pahadi hit in the voice of Lata from the same year, albeit under the baton of SJ, are very close to each other.
2. You have mentioned OPN’s respect for Shyam Sundar. I think the tune of OPN’s ‘Ek pardesi mera dil le gaya’ from ‘Phagun’ was ‘inspired’ by Shyam Sundar’s ‘Chori chori aag si’ from ‘Dholak’.
Venkataramanji,
It’s just a small typo
Need not apologize.
☺
@56,
How could I not mention ‘Baithi hoon teri yaad ka’ in my list of favourites! What a song!! There is a lot of Raga Tilang in it.
Thank you mumbaikar 8
🙂
Venkatraman ji ;
Lata ji’s song from Nirdosh is very heart touching. I am amazed at how Shyam Sunder used variety of singers in his solo and duet compositions. In Char Din [1949] movie he clubbed all the singers in one Qawalli song that runs for 6 minutes . The movie had five songs from Suraiya alone.
Haye re bholi surat…Rafi, Lata, Raj kumari, S D Batish , Iqbal, Zorabai
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8N9HWEdDKA
Ek bewafa ki yaad ne…..Suraiya….Char Din
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fgw-LOGPlI
Anjaam e mohabbat kuchh bhi nahi….–do—
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIZ5I6bkIl0
Ranganji,
Thanks for your encouraging words with an ultimatum in good zest!
Ashwinji,
Can we consider the song ‘Chalo Chalo Chale Hum Babul Ke Tale’ in the same category as ‘Ek pardesi mera dil le gaya’ from ‘Phagun’ & ‘Chori chori aag si’ from ‘Dholak’.
Chalo Chalo Chale Hum Babul Ke Tale, Thandi Thandi Hawa Hame Pankhe Jhale by Shamshad Begum & Md.Rafi, film Ali Baba aur 40 Chor (1954), lyrics Raja Mehdi Ali Khan, music S N Tripathi & Chitragupt
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uY02XKRI4lk
Bhatiaji,
The Qawwali song from CharDin (1949) is a really good song.
The Shamshad Begum number from Kaale Badal (1951) also appears to be a Qawwali.
Pahle unke saamne jaate hi khanjar rakh diya by Shamshad Begam, lyrics Rajinder Krishan,
https://vimeo.com/248327503
As we have already noted, out of the 24 films for which Shyam Sundar composed music four were Punjabi films. Sohini Kunharan (1939), Laila Majnu (1940), Jagga Daku (1940) & Gul Baloch (1944). None of the songs from these four films are available for listening. May be Bhatiaji can be of help.
Out of his 20 Hindi films, Shyam Sundar composed music for 4 films along with other music directors.
Bhai (1944) with Ghulam Hyder, Urvashi (1946) with Ram Chandra Pal & Paigankar, Arsi (1947) along with Lachiram Tomar and Mukhda (1951) with Vinod.
In Bhai (1944) Shyam Sundar composed 3 songs out of the eight and in Mukhda (1951) Shyam Sundar gave music for only one song, the rest (11 songs) were by Vinod. In Urvashi (10 songs) & Arsi (11 songs), we cannot clearly identify/ establish the composers. For that matter none of the songs from Urvashi and also Jangi Jawan of 1943 (7 Songs) are available for listening.
Bhatiaji @41
You could as well have posted the song Aayi Aayi Udan Khatole Pe Chadh Kar Sawan Ki Rani from Nai Kahani (1943) in the previous article ‘Swing a song of six pence’. Is the singer Leela Mehta?
Here is another song from this film. It appears that Leela Mehta is the singer of this song too.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoe3QQI1gr8
Two more songs from Nai Kahani.
A solo
Aa Jaa, Bichhade Hue Saajan Jis Des Gayaa Hai by G M Durrani, film Nai Kahani (1943), lyrics Wali Sahab
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7eU_dwdkz38
followed by a nice duet by Paresh Banerjee & Rajkumari
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=6&v=JTRKyahtUr0
AK ji,
Your observation of Mukhesh getting very few songs with the Punjabi School of composers is definitely intriguing.
Even Vinod, who has worked with almost every major singer of his time ( Hemant Kumar? Kishore Kumar?), has ,to the best of my knowledge, only one song with Mukhesh: a comedy number in MAKKHEE CHOOSE…Seth ji,tumne Kiya kamaal.
Elsewhere,a mention was made of Vinod’s association with Asha Bhonsle. Yes, there must be nearly fifty songs of this combination.
How naive could I be! Going by some information on the internet I posted the typical SD Batish song as a SD Burman one! With some ‘ intelligent’ comments,too!!!
KS Bhatiaji @40, 41,
Thanks for adding so many unheard songs from a variety of singers. Now we are seeing the full extent of Shyam Sundar’s genius in his ability to give great songs with so many singers, and of such different types. Do you also feel that Sulochana Kadam sounds uncannily like Lata Mangeshkar in songs of Kaale Baadal(1951), including in the songs posted by N Venkataramanji at @50? It could be only because of conscious imitation as her natural style was quite distinct.
Sangeetaji @46,
Thanks for taking us down the memory lane.
Anup @49,
Yes, I too find the tunes of the two songs – Sun lo sajan meri baat and Aise rasiya ka kya aitbaar quite similar. Some other readers have also endorsed you. Thanks for mentioning it.
Apropos our earlier conversation about happy-sad duets, I have come across another nice one:
Zindagi badli mohabbat ka maza aane laga by Lata Mangeshkar and Rajkumari from Anhonee (1951), lyrics Nakhshab Jalchavi, music Roshan
Venkataramani @48, 54,
Ajit-Mona Darling connection! Nice observation. You would remember we once discussed Kishore Kumar in Padosan forgetting the name Bindu (Saira Bano’s character in the film) and calling her ‘Anuradha, O Anuradha’, until pointed out by his Mandali, and then correcting himself, Are bhoola, and continuing to Meri pyari Bindu. This couldn’t be a slip of tongue. You were able to decode that it was a spoof on KC Dey-Kana Devi’s dialogue from Vidyapati (1937).
Ashwin @56,
I entirely agree with your first observation. As regards the second, the meter of Chori chori aag si dil mein lagakar chal diye is longer than that of Ek pardesi mera dil le gaya, though the theme of the two songs is the same. You are right, but it is more exact to say that Qamar Jalalabadi must have been inspired by Shams Lakhanavi.
Dr Shetty @64,
Mukesh was from Delhi which had its own distinct culture until the demographics changed post-partition with the arrival of Punjabis in large numbers. Therefore, his voice was probably not a natural fit with the Punjab School. His major composers were Kalyanji-Anandji and Shankar-Jaikishan, besides his mentor Anil Biswas, and the superlative Naushad, though in very few films. We can treat them as distinct from Punjab. Roshan is an interesting case who also gave several great songs for Mukesh, but his music was very different from the Punjab School, except some films and songs where he was ‘persuaded’ to compose in OP Nayyar style. This might be one way to solve the intriguing puzzle.
Yes, this one from Anhonee is my favourite and was there on the list, when I complied such songs, two different moods in a single song, on my blog. It won’t be appropriate to add the link for that post, but the interested can view it on my blog.
Anup
🙂
AK ji @65 ; N venkatraman ji ;
Absolutely ! Sulochna Kadam in many of her songs do converge on Lata’s style . I , somehow , have a feeling that if she had struck to her own …..the melody could get sweeter by one more mole in the cheek .
For long I have heard that famous Dholak song ……Mausam aaya hai rangeen….many times ……. and repeated a few times now too. Her natural rendition indicates a unique nasal touch in stanzas/ antaras which adds to beauty of the melody and beats of dholaks. Watch her sing the words….holey holey holey aa. In fact these words appears [to me]as …..honney, honney hooney aa. Sharp ear listeners observations may endorse or differ I suppose ….but this excercise is worth examination .
N Venkatraman ji @62;
Thanks for the thorough analysis quality and quantity wise . I am still looking for Punjabi film songs and will report when unearthed.
I am too excited by this post and am glued to my computer listening to the rare and popular songs . When i listened to one movie song I make myself sure that I have covered all songs …just to see the trend of flow of sad and happy songs in the movie concerned. Because of constraint in posting not more than four or five songs I do select only which I feel are better and rare too.
To continue the ball rolling , here are a few more…..
Listen to this dholak based melody
Koi dil mein samaya….Suraiya….Kamal Ka Phool
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a9KAnUof-lQ
Ayenge Ayenge aaj…..Shamshad…..Dev Kanya [1946]….the tune of this song seems to be very familier . I am not able to recollect song which i suppose is from vintage era.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5m6b2EBZsOQ
Aasha ki jyot jagaye ja…..Khan Mastana [ in the voice of Mukesh ?]….Dev Kanya
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ItKeySX0B6U
Piya milan ko jaane wali….Amirbai….Dev Kanya
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEn5ua54wYo
Venkataramanji, @ 42
Mohd Rafi recting antara of his first song from Gul Baloch
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DEwVYQviOg
AK @ 67
Apropos earlier conversation about happy-sad duets, I have come across another one with Rajkumari with Asha
RajKumari & Asha Bhosle – Ho TujhKo Mubarak – Bindiya (1955)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvLaecAiMho
AK,@ 70
You will be surprised to know, growing up in Bombay with many Gujarati family friends, always thought Mukesh was a Gujarati.
My favourite Mukesh song was Gujarati song, His Gujarati pronunciation was as good or even better than his Hindi
MUKESH – O NEEL GAGAN NA PANKHERU- A Beautiful Gujarati Song-1949
https://youtu.be/B7h1B_npDAw
Probably he was accidental Punjabi 🙂
Later got to know that his better half was a Gujarati. Heard Anandji addressing him as Amaro Jamai (Our son in law)
Mumbaikar8,
Your happy-sad duet: It’s video would have made it more clear.
‘Gujarati’ Mukesh: That is another explanation of the puzzle of his not being a favourite music directors of the Punjab School.
Mumbaikar8,
Thanks a lot for introducing this song, its a good song, perfectly fitting in happy sad theme.
I hadn’t heard it before.
Anup
🙂
Bhatiaji @73
Thanks for the vintage songs. Koi dil mein samaya Chupke is a fabulous song. Also liked the songs from Dev Kanya by Amirbai Karnataki, Khan Mastana and Shamshad Begum.
Can you identify the singer in this song? Is it the voice of G M Durrani?,
Hindustan Ki Khatir Hum Jaan Bhi Luta Denge by (?), film Gaon ki Gori (1945)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=145&v=XxY95qeNtjc
Ashwinji Bhandarkarji,
When I posted a song from Naulakh Haar in your previous post, you mentioned that it was the first time you saw Durga Khote lip sync a song! Here is another one.
Bansi Ki Madhur Dhun Se Mere Bhag by Amirbai Karnataki, film Gaon Ki Gori (1945), lyrics Wali Sahab
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1U0NmPPj0sk
Mumbaikar @ &74
Are you sure this is the original one. Only the first line is repeated in the clipping.
Anyway Thanks.
Another Chorus from Gaon Ki Gori. Can you identify the singers?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ih_jer7lfo
It is very good to see a post on Shyam Sundar about whom there is hardly any information. This post also gave the music lovers a good opportunity to view at the songs of Shyam Sundar and the films to which he gave music. So I join all those who praised the post and post writer.
The opening line of AK’s exposition on Shym Sundar “Saajan ki galiyan chood chale was Lata Mangeshkar’s reply to her Didi’s Aawaaz de kahan hain.” is very intriguing.
Does he compare the two songs or two voices or two different composers?
Further more if he measures one against the other then question on what grounds he does it?
AK has done a post on Noorjehan long time ago. There he said if Noorjehan was stayed on in India she would have lost to Lata’s Tsunami.
I can enjoy both the songs without referring to each other and also not much giving credit to them as the songs themselves were more interesting than the songsters even though Noor- Jehan gave herself a good account in acting but towards the end of forties she was becoming a matured woman and had lost her girly freshness.
I think about the period of thirties and forties that opened up the music to the common people from all levels as the records of the songs from many films were played in tea houses and private functions and at the beginnings in of the public lectures and rallies and in the gardens from the bandstands.
Before this the music was locked in temples, royal durbars and Kothis of red-light districts.
Saigal and Pankaj Mullik dominated in this music mêlée.
As Noorjehan appeared in her films of distinguished stories and songs she became popular and that made other female voices also became very popular along with a mass madness to visit the films as second best activity for the multitudes, first being the political rallies.
Lata got a big push as Noorjeahn became pregnant and married and on the way to the New Country called Pakistan.
Lata and Noorjeahn might have loved each other for their voices followed by their pop popularity. But their musical creativity was aided and abetted by the able composers who quickly got the understanding of the ability of Lata in bending and lengthening the notes and not losing the sweetness of her voice.
Thus we got popular music culture and we still love it.
However I feel Noorjehan is dated when I hear now along with Saigal, Punkaj Mullik and some other singers of the period. It is my personal opinion. While listening to the songs of Lata I feel they still give me a pleasurable tickle and those tunes of Shyma Sundar are very fresh now as well.
Shalan Lal
Two happy sad songs:
NAJMA,1943
Fasle bahaar gaaye re…
Sitara Devi,Parul Ghosh; Anjum Philbhiti; Rafiq Ghaznavi.
KAVI KALIDAS,1959.
Aaj ki raat chandni ang mein aag lagaai..
Sabita Bannerjee,Usha Mangeshkar.
Bharat Vyas; S N Tripathi.
Ms. Mumbaikar8@76;
Being Punjabi , Mukesh have sung Gujarati songs and being Bengali , Hemant Kumar has sung Punjabi song. Talat too have sung punjabi song but a few only…..rest is all Rafi, MK, Balbir.
N Venkatraman ji;
The singers for songs @79 and @81 are G. M.Durrani and Amirbai Karnatki. In fact this is already indicated under the song scripted post.
What follows again is a bouquet of of happy and sad songs from a single movie ….Bhai Behan [1950]….starting with a funny duet…..with Gope in mind….
Hum chand si ek dulahan laaye…..Shamshad, Satish Batra
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3e6ZmYgkunw
Ban than ke chali…..Talat…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQG_Ey_5zyY
Zamane Walo Apni Meharbani Dekhte Jana…..Shamshad
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDazFoRt0ao
Kisi ko kya khabar……Premlata, Mukesh…
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTDYCFQv0gw&t=21s
Tum ko humse pyar hai….Shamshad, Batra
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LM5uTdxTdlc
Purab Se Uthi Kali Ghata,Masti Ka Mausam Aagaya…..Shamshad
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JmTamih985U
…..to be contd.
Mehfil Mein Mere ji( sounds weird,as if addressing an inanimate thing or a venue!),
All of us here are open minded and I am sure it will be in no way inappropriate to give the link for your blog if the subject is relevant.
Shalan Lal,
On Lata Mangeshkar versus Noorjehan we are on the same page, you stating the same thing more bluntly. I still have your detailed exposition in my folder, the most appropriate time/place was as a comment on my post, but it was too late.
Having said that, it is relevant to compare the two, for the simple reason that Noorjehan’s departure left this question hanging. Had she been here, it would have been settled long back one way or the other.
Lata Mangeshkar was aware of the significance of the 1982 event, and the ‘versus’ question that would be inevitably talked about. Therefore, what she chose for ‘reply’ was important. And she did give a befitting reply. That also shows the stature of the song and Shyam Sundar.
Ak, @ 77
Expecting to find a video of an unknown movie like Bindiya is asking for too much फिर भी will keep trying.
Anup @ 78
Thanks
Venkataraman @ 81
Often I am guilty of not understandable but @ 74 I have very clearly said that Rafi is reciting antara of his first song I did not say it’s the original song.
I am not good at recognizing pre 50’s singer, perhaps one of them is Amirbai.
Bhatiaji@ 84
Singing songs in other language was very common Geeta Dutt sang many Gujarati songs too.
Mukesh gujrati connection that he sang maximum number of songs with Gujarati MDs Jaikishan and Kalyandji Anandji, as far I know he was a great favourite of Gujatatis of Bombay, though with heroes it was Punjabi Raj Kapoor and Manoj Kumar.
Dr . Pradeep ji ,
I m a regular reader of the blog
” Mehfil mein meri ” .
Dr . Anup is the blogger . I like that blog a lot . Dr.Anup’s themes , his research for the theme , selection of songs , write – up nd above all , his replies to our comments , everything is praise – worthy .
Don’t miss the chance to read it .
Dr Pradeep ji,
My name is Anup, and some of the readers know it. Mehfil Mein Meri is the name of my blog and I prefer to comment by that name.
I didn’t consider it appropriate to promote my own posts on any other blog. Of course, it’s my own decision.
But as you said, it is relevant to the topic going on, I’ll give the link, here.
Thanks for showing interest Pradeep ji.
I’m honored.
https://mehfilmeinmeri.wordpress.com/2017/08/20/two-different-moods-in-a-single-song/
It was published in August 2017
Thanks a lot Pramodji.
Such appreciation encourages a blogger to work with even more vigour.
Thank you.
Anup
🙂
What a studied post and what an expansive discussion….
Though, I would hesitate to put Shyam Sundar under the shadow of greats. His career was too short, but look at the songs that he has composed ! And as AKji has so rightly stated, he is one who brought the likes of Lata, Rafi, Noor Jehan , and even Sulochana Kadam into the lime light…
May be not only his fallibility to the drunkenness, but his short temper also may have not helped in a very rewarding career if he had lived longer.
I would bracket him with Sajjad Hussain. For the likes of such music directors, who had very short careers, we may create a separate category of Meteors who blazed the sky….
All the same, a great post for a great music director.
I was tempted to comment on the Noorjehan vs Lata Mangeshkar topic. Well then I thought it would not be appropriate to butt in. AKji mentioned in his introduction, I quote
“Talking of Noorjehan, the songs that come at the top of your mind are Baithi hun teri yaad ka lekar ke sahara and Kis tarah bhoolega dil unka khayal aya hua (Village Girl, 1945)”
Zohrabai Ambalewali also rendered the song Kis tarah bhoolega dil unka khayal aya hua. Several opinions are doing the round about the Zohrabai Ambalewali’s version.
It is said that Zohrabai recorded this song earlier as a private song and later this song was included in the said film in the voice of Noorjehan. Very unlikely; because there is no instance of Shyam Sundar scoring music for NFS.
The second opinion goes like this. First the song was recorded in the voice of Zohrabai, and then later on it was rejected and it was recorded in the voice of Noorjehan. I do not agree to this view too, since Noorjehan sang all her songs in her films.
The only likelihood which I can speculate is that the film version was sung by Noorjehan and later the song could have been recorded in the voice of Zohrabai. In the same year we find similar instance where Zeenat Begum recorded 4 solos songs of Noorjehan from the film Bhai. I present both the versions.
Kis Tarah Bhulega Unka Khyal Aaya Hua by Noor Jehan film Gaon Ki Gori (1945)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8m0j59gyZw
Kis Tarah Bhulega Unka Khyal Aaya Hua by Zohrabai Ambalewali
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYcbNomWqMM
Bhatiaji @ 85
Thanks for the response and the bouquet of songs from Bhai Behen. The pleasing duet Kisi ko kya khabar was also posted by Maheshji. Enjoyed the comic duet Hum chand si ek dulahan laaye.
In the song Hindustan Ki Khatir Hum Jaan Bhi Luta Denge (@79), I had a doubt. To my ears the voice did not sound like that of G M Durrani. Since you confirm that it is G M Durrani, I accept.
Again in the song Ho Pardesi Raja (@81), it appeared to me that there was at least one more female voice. Hence the question. I may be wrong.
A solo of Amirbai Karnataki from Gaon Ki Gori
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=8&v=oVcJH-hGdD4
Ashokji,
Thanks a lot for your appreciation. The temptation to put music directors in different categories may become too unwieldy. I first gave a unique category to ‘Forgotten Composers: Unforgettable melodies’. That made sense to me, and I guess, to others too, for the names I had included. ‘Greatness under the shadow of giants’ also occurred to me while thinking of some names. What you are saying is absolutely right, perhaps you are more right, but for convenience I would confine myself to the categories I have made so far.
Mumbaikar8 ji @88
Please forgive me, in fact it reflects poorly on my receptivity.
A few more songs
Another lesser known duet from the film Nai Kahani (1943)
Man Mandir Me Aaye Balam by Paresh Banerjee & Rajkumari
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zEdhPkbC1-8
A solo from Kaale Badal
Mujhe teri kasam mujhe teri kasam by Pushpa Hans, film Kaale Badal (1951), lyrics Rajinder Krishan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=102&v=t84oTX4zuZE
Venkataramanji,
Thanks a lot for sharing the version song of Zohrabai Ambalewali. It has to be a version song, sung by Zeenat Begum for a lark. We have seen a number of such version songs earlier.
Venkatraman ji ,
Thnx a lot for adding the 2 versions of ” kis tarah bhoolega dil ”
I always stop nd listen to Zohrabai’s songs whenever I come across them . Nd like them . I liked this one too .
Nd I m a gr8 fan of Noor jahan nd her voice .
But a clear difference I found in this song that Zohrabai has pronounced the word ” kis ” as
” कीस ” nd Noor jahan has sung it correctly as ” किस ” .
Besides this difference , being an actress , Noorjahan is able to add
” अदाकारी ” in her voice , which is enhanced more by her sweet voice nd had taken the song on top .
Thnx once again .
Akji & Pramodji,
I am glad that you liked both the versions of the song Kis tarah bhoolega dil.
Thanks Pramodji for sharing your views on their singing.
There are two versions of another song from the same film. Noorjehan’s version is good, but I liked Zohrabai’s rendition too.
Mai Kheto Ka Panchi By Noorjehan from Gaon Ki Gori (1945)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=raaAYA2JPz4
Mai Kheto Ka Panchi Zohrabai Ambalewali’s version
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zV3x0asnvIc
Venkataramanji @ 96,
It’s ok बड़े बड़े लोगों से छोटी छोटी गलती हो जाती हैं
My friend Jaydeep Gupta says that there were three female voices in the song, O Pardesi Raja Koyal Kook Rahi Aaja (@81); Amirbai Karnataki, Rajkumari & Shanta Patel.
Another beautiful solo of Noorjehan from Gaon KI Gori, Ye Kaun Hansa Kisne Sitaro Ko hansaya (not a typical Noorjehan song)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=57&v=lUV8KzVtrK4
One more from the same film rendered by Noorjehan
Sajan Pardesi Balam Pardeshi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=5&v=9JlqPdRZmX8
My friend Jaydeep Gupta says that there were three female voices in the song, O Pardesi Raja Koyal Kook Rahi Aaja (@81); Amirbai Karnataki, Rajkumari & Shanta Patel.
Another beautiful solo of Noorjehan from Gaon KI Gori, Ye Kaun Hansa Kisne Sitaro Ko hansaya (not a typical Noorjehan song)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=57&v=lUV8KzVtrK4
One more from the same film rendered by Noorjehan
Sajan Pardesi Balam Pardeshi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=5&v=9JlqPdRZmX8
Venkataramanji
Thanks for sharing Zohrabai version songs, had heard kis tarah before but kheto ka panchhi was new. Zohrabai has done a better job with this one.
AK,
I do not think it is inappropriate to butt in Lata Noorjaham discussion .
My thought on it, with the advent of Lata, thin voice became a symbol of purity and virginity, we the Indian audience became conditioned to that, can we imagine a bidi jalai le in Lata’s voice or a tumhi mere mandir in any other voice?
The conditioning was quick and strong till date in progressive India and far more progressing Hindi film industry likes of Shreya Ghosal dominate Hindi songs.
Had Noorjahan been around would this process of conditioning would have been less, would we have been more receptive to full throated female voice as western world or even closer Pakistan is?
Venkataramanji
My friend Jaydeep Gupta says that there were three female voices in the song, O Pardesi Raja Koyal Kook Rahi Aaja (@81); Amirbai Karnataki, Rajkumari & Shanta Patel.
Seems like more than three singers my take for thin voice starting 58 to 1:00 would be Lata.
Typo mistake @ 103 should be :58 to 1:10
Mumbaikar8 @100,
Shukriya.
@103
True,Zohrabai’s version of the song Mai Kheto Ka Panchi was without doubt good.
@104
You have very well put across your point of view. Point to ponder.
@105
To my ears it does not seem to be Lata Mangeshkar’s voice. Over to Lata expert AKji.
I have mentioned earlier (@13) that in the 1945 film Bhai Jaan Noor Jehan sang 4 songs, but in the recorded version Zeenat Begum rendered the songs. Noor Jehan’s version is not available. I have posted one of the songs Chupke Se Dil Me Aa Base by Zeenat Begum. Here is another one rendered by Zeenat Begum, Aaja Bedardi Aaja.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XZzGUBYlQns
Here is another pleasing song from the same film Rut Yeh Suhani Aayi Guiya.
Can anybody identify the singers.
https://gaana.com/song/rut-yeh-suhani-aai
Venkataramanji,
I can’t make out Lata Mangeshkar in O pardesi raja, koel kook rahi aa ja. Another point to ponder, if she was one of the voices, she should also have been in the video, because her payback career started from 1947. Your friend may be right.
Akji @108
Thanks for the response.
So far songs of fourteen female singers who have sung solos for Shyam Sundar, have been posted. Noor Jehan, Lata Mangeshkar, Sulochana Kadam, Shamshad Begum, Zohrabai Ambalewali, Amirbai Karnataki, Suraiya, Naseem Akhtar, Zeenat Begum, Dilshad Begum, Meena Kapoor, Pushpa Hans, Asha Bhonsle & Leela Mehta. Besides, duets or other songs have been posted where Uma Devi, Premlata, Rajkumar, Geeta Dutt and Shanta Patel had lent their voices.
I am adding one more female singer to the list.
Mai Pritam Ke Gun Gau Re by Saraswati Rani, film Dev Kanya (1946)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=er1yukKieVY
@109 it is Saeaswat Rane and Saraswati Rani.
Here is one more…. by Munawar Sultana
Masti Ka Sama Do Phool Khile Hai by Munawar Sultana, film Ek Roz (1947), lyrics Sarshar Sailani
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=48&v=PppJZbim8pU
Ooph. SARASWATI RANE. Sorry.
In my search for the remaining songs of Bhaijaan (1945), I found the audio version (Gaana) of 7 songs out of the 9 songs from this film. I have already posted 4 of them. Songs 3 & 4 of this audio clipping are the other two songs recorded by Zeenat Begum. Song no.5 is a chorus (singer to be identified). I am giving the link below.
https://gaana.com/album/bhai-jaan
KSBhatia @84
I read your good informative comment on the Granthasheb on the post of “Swing a song of six pence” @125 and I was going to praise it and add some information. But a lot of things kept me away from doing so.
I take the opportunity now.
It was very good and I think a separate post is needed to look at the influence of Granthasaheb songs on Punjabi/Kashmiri composers and also singers like Rafi.
About forty or so years ago I did attend a course of eight weeks on Sikh Religion lectured by both Siikh scholars and English scholars of Sikh religion.
There was one day especially on the musical compositions of the verses in Granthasaheb. At that time one scholar brought out a copy of Ravindra Nath Tagore’s own study of the Ragas and Raginis in Granthasaheb and it was used in his lecture.
Lata Mangeshkar was one who sang songs in many Indian languages had also sung many verses from the Granthasaheb. Lata sang a song in Swahili as well as in many songs in the Eastern Indian languages.
All Mangeshkar sisters sang many songs in Gujarati. But Asha and Usha Mangeishkars had done many more songs than Lata had done and Asha’s big Album called “Brim-full of Asha” was recorded by her Gujarati friend. It has English songs of Asha.
Shalan Lal
Anup ji,
Mehfil Mein Aap ke hum aa chuke hain aur previous posts ke majaa le rahe hain.
Pramod Godbole ji,
Thank you. Yes, Anup ji’s posts are interesting, informative. I am hooked.
Dr Pradeep ji,
Thanks for visiting, and I’m glad you’re enjoying the posts.
Please leave a comment on any of the post, or all the posts.
Thank you.
And a big thanks to Pramodji, too.
Anup
🙂
Akji,
Two lesser known numbers of Shyam Sundar.
A solo by Premlata
Kahaan Chale kahan chale kahan chale ji, chod ke na jao sajan pyar ki gali, film Bhai Behan (1950), lyrics S H Bihari
https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=12&v=9wDFCxxkRek
And a duet by Imdad Hussain & Dilshad Begum
Aise Mauke Bhi Kahi Roz Mila Karte Hai, film Ek Roz (1947), lyrics Sarshar Sailani
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33LPRQZe4fY
Dr. Pradeep ji nd Dr. Anup ji ,
Both of U hav given me the credit for introducing ” Mehfil mein meri”,
But I hav done the job of an indicator or a sign – board only by directing a ” कानसेन ” reader to a
” संगीत ज्ञानसेन ” blogger .
Godbole ji,
Kahin aap” तानसेन”के descendant toh nahin hai?
Whatever,Aap god god bolte zaroor hain,by God.
Oh!
I’m a कानसेन too. And I am passionate about old Hindi film music. That’s it.
I’ve no knowledge of classical music or the musical instruments.
So I’m not a संगीत ज्ञानसेन
🙂
And Dr Pradeep ji,
I’m waiting for your comment on my blog.
Anup
Dr . Anup ji nd Dr . Pradeep ji ,
Thnx for the replies .
I feel like I hav got 2 new learned , jolly friends .
Nd yes , all this has happened due to Ak ji ‘ s blog
So Ak ji , I count U too in my friends’ list hereafter .
Whichever day is it 2day
Wish U all a
Happy Friendship Day !!!
Yes, I say
happy friendship day to you all.
🙂
Godbole ji,Anup ji,AK ji, ksbhatia ji,N Venkataraman ji ( he was kind enough to meet me while passing through Mangalore last year), Shalan Lal ji, Joseph ji, Sangeeta ji,DP Rangan ji, Subhodh Agarwal ji, Mahesh ji,Canasya ji,dustedoff ji, Ashok Vaishnav ji, Subhodh Agarwal ji,AK Deshmukh ji, Mumbaikar ji, Ashwin Bhandarkar ji,Anu Warrier ji….. I may have missed a few regulars….. Happy Friendship Day to ALL OF US. May our musical journey continue harmoniously.
Happy Republic Day in advance.
Anup ji,
I will definitely leave comments on your blog… shortly.
Thank you Pramodji, Anupji & Pradipji for the good wishes.
Happy Friendship Day to all the members of SoY.
Dear Friends,
I heartily reciprocated the greetings and wish a very happy Friendship Day to all. (But, honestly, is there any day in the calendar which is not some ‘Day’? 🙂 )
AK ji ;
Very well said . There are father’s day, Mother’s day , Old pal days, Teacher’s day , Engineers day…..many more . Only one has to visit Archies galleries to know about the coming events.
AKji,
It’s not the usual friendship day, but just a mark of celebration!
To celebrate the budding friendship between all of us.
And yes,
nearly every day in the calendar, is some ‘Day’ or the other.
🙂
It seems my previous comment went to spam folder!
Oh!
Its there!
sorry. It appeared late!
Pradeep ji @123
Thank you.
Joining all in celebrating the budding friendship between us.
Mumbaikar 8,
You also have to visit my blog, in fact you had agreed to it last January and I’ve been waiting for a year!
Jokes apart, plz do visit.
Thanks
Anup
🙂
Anup,
I visit your blog on and off but have been very lazy to leave comments.
Commenting on SOY drains me out 🙂
Hopefully next time.
Oh!
Happy to know, you have read some of my posts.
Thank you so much.
Yes,
And leave a comment at your leisure.
No hurry of course.
Anup
🙂
Song No. 04
Fresh link – https://youtu.be/3O68dK6g0c4?t=22
Song No. 05
Fresh link – https://youtu.be/5wS4mCsXKg0?t=27
Song No. 9
Fresh link – https://youtu.be/Rg5d4ogeE7A?t=3
Song No. 10
Fresh Link – https://youtu.be/Rq2oTMqKYx8?list=PLpZLHt6c4Ik-NfnrvgDmXoAAvNLfE0On-&t=6
Song No. 12
Fresh Link – https://youtu.be/yyF-c8tnWCg?t=34
Song No. 14
Fresh Link – https://youtu.be/3NdA-QSnqh8?t=4
Mr Rangan,
Thanks a lot for your efforts. I am away, I would be able to carry it out on return on the 13th September.
Mr Rangan,
Thanks a lot for all the trouble you have taken to post the correct links. I have embedded the correct links in the post.