Music Reviews: Om Shanti Om

By Joginder Tuteja, September 13, 2007 - 13:13 IST

The much awaited music of Om Shanti Om finally arrives on stands this weekend. IndiaFM was invited for an exclusive preview for the film's soundtrack. Read on to know more about what the album has to offer. Also, tune in on Saturday to hear the songs - yet again, EXCLUSIVELY on IndiaFM.

Expectations. Expectations. And some more expectations. This is how one looks forward to the music of Om Shanti Om from which one expects nothing but the best. And why not? After all:

a) This is the biggest ever film starring Shahrukh Khan
b) This is the second directorial venture for Farah Khan who made a smashing debut with Main Hoon Naa c) The film has created huge buzz accompanied by immense hype ever since it was launched
d) Vishal-Shekhar and Javed Akhtar saab are expected to bring on table a massy popular score
e) Last but not the least, the film travels decades which makes one look forward to variety in the soundtrack.

Write your own music review of Om Shanti Om

Are these expectations met? Well, very much as each of the seven unique tracks bring on a variety that makes Om Shanti Om a winner all the way.

It is a truly unconventional beginning to Om Shanti Om as instead of an expected 'Beat-one-Beat-two' beginning from Vishal-Shekhar, one gets to hear a rather serene 'Aankhon Mein Teri' which turns out to be an extremely soulful hear. On hearing it initially, it is the sheer 'different' factor due to which it takes some time to follow the composition. But once you have heard it closely with lights switched off and no interference around you, 'Aankhon Mein Teri' turns out to be an irresistible piece of melody that lingers on for hours.

There are number of factors which go in making 'Aankhon Mein' a song that would be remembered for time to come. First and foremost it is the re-discovery of Vishal-Shekhar who create an unconventional tune that breaks the norms which they had themselves set for them. Furthermore, Vishal himself writes lyrics for this track which turns out to be a unique experience since it shows the sensitive romantic side of him. But the biggest of all is K.K. who showcases once again that he is THE most versatile singer who we have in the Bollywood musical scene today!

Well, those who love the dance numbers coming from Vishal-Shekhar don't have to wait for long with the arrival of 'Dard-E-Disco'. This is the very track which is much talked about for Shahrukh Khan's 'perfect-six-abs' and unlike 'Aankhon Mein' which grows immensely only after a few hearings, it is an instant hit from the GO. Reminding of the style, rhythm and the funk of 'Kaal Dhamaal' [Kaal], 'Dard E Disco' is a 'jump-on-the-dance-floor' number which has a Persian touch to it even as overall feel of the song stays on to be Western.

From the title of the song, one would have expected 'Dard-E-Disco' to belong to the 80s era with a Mithun hangover it but that's not the case as the song turns out to be pretty contemporary. Sukhwinder Singh is in his full elements for this track that has some spicy writing by Javed Akhtar saab. Marianne, Nisha and Caralisa come together for backup vocals who give the song a perfect disco feel. Later in the album arrives the 'remix version' which makes for a justified presence due to the song's theme and keeps the entertainment alive.

One would have expected the graph of the album to at maximum stay steady after 'Aankhon Mine' and 'Dard-E-Disco' but to one's pleasant surprise, it shoots up amazingly with 'Deewangi Deewangi' which hooks you on within first one minute itself. A sure shot chartbuster which could well have been the opening number for the film's promotion, 'Deewangi Deewangi' is what qualifies as a trademark number which could have been lapped up by Yash Raj Films or Dharma Productions.

Coming together of Shaan, Udit Narayan, Shreya Ghoshal, Sunidhi Chauhan and Rahul Saxena (heard in Indian Idol) ensures that there is not a single dull moment in this instant-attention-grabbing track. Boasting of the innocence in melody that was witnessed in the 70s and now presented in the 21st century 'avtar' with a fusion of 'qawalli', 'bhangra' and western arrangements, 'Deewangi Deewangi' that also incorporates the sound of Om Shanti Om would definitely lit up the screen when it is played. It's 'Rainbow Mix' only confirms the thought as it helps in consolidating the sound of the song.

If you have ever been in love, you wouldn't have missed out the dancing-couple-on-a-glass-floor gift item that has a sweet sounding tinkling sound which compliments their moves! This is the sound that marks the beginning of 'Main Agar Kahoon' which reminds one of the 60s era when songs like these were in vogue. Picturised on the likes of Rajendra Kumar and Shammi Kapoor, they were mostly sung by Late Mohd. Rafi.

This is the very reason why Sonu Nigam has been roped in to croon 'Main Agar Kahoon' which required the kind of rendition which would succeed in getting you nostalgic about the music of the era gone by. With Shreya Ghoshal in tow who is just the right fit for a song belonging to this genre, 'Main Agar Kahoon' gives a completely different flavor to the album by bringing some 'thehrav' to it after a rocking outing experienced in last few songs.

Names like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Richa Sharma are good enough reasons to expect a quality offering from Vishal-Shekhar in the song 'Jag Soona Soona Lage'. Written by guest lyricist Kumaar, this painful yet mellow track about separation has it's beginning borrowed from the opening sound of 'Main Agar Kahoon'. Both the singers are highly competent in this beautifully written number that shows an altogether different facet of the composer-duo. A track which has a thorough Indian base to it and makes for a passionate outing, expect it to make multiple appearance during the film's narrative.

It's time for the world of 'Tohfa Tohfa Tohfa' [Tohfa] as 'dhols' and 'ghunghroos' come together in unison to create the sound of late 70s and early 80s. With a Lakshmikant-Pyayelal patent all over 'Dhoom Taana', it is only consolidated further as Shreya Ghoshal sings the song in a style that was made famous by yesteryear singer S. Janaki in Jeetendra-Sridevi-Jaya Pradha films. Roping in of Abhijeet too seems to be done with a purpose since it only brings the nostalgia of Kishore Kumar in spite of no conscious effort by the singer to do so.

All through this vintage song, the 'dhol' beats accompanied by the chorus of 'Dhoom Taana' is hard to be missed though there is a shift in mood mid-way with rock-n-roll. Just recently there was news around Deepika Padukone shaking a leg with Sunil Dutt, Jeetendra and Rajesh Khanna, courtesy SFX. Well, 'Dhoom Taana' seems to be just the candidate for that setting! A winner which should definitely have the house on fire as it unfolds on the big screen. Especially watch out for the crescendo towards the song's end.

Finally comes a track which seems to be set in accordance to the reincarnation theme of the film. Set as a tribute to 'Ek Haseena Thi Ek Deewana Tha' [Karz] with even the lyrics taking a cue from the classic track by Lakshmikant-Pyarelal, 'Dastaan-E-Om Shanti Om' is set in exactly the same story telling mode. The styling of this Shaan rendered track follows the same mode as one expects a high voltage dramatic narration when the song is on.

High on orchestra, 'Dastaan-E-Om Shanti Om' is an elaborate number which has a lot to convey through it's lyrics by Javed Akhtar saab. With its 'mukhda' based on the film's theme music, the song makes an appearance again towards the end of the album. In it's 'remix version' as 'Dastaan - The Dark Side Mix', it is pepped up further with additional arrangements.

Another remix track which takes the album towards its completion is 'Om Shanti Om - Medley Mix' which basically is an amalgamation of all the tracks from the film presented in a 'club-mix' avtar. A good way to wind up the album. Finally comes a minute long theme piece which is titled 'Om Shanti Om - Themes'. Played on a piano, it leaves a lasting impact even as one can revisit the sound in at least half the tracks in the album.

Credit must go to Farah Khan who mixes the commercial elements of the movie with an inherent class which she wanted to lay out in the soundtrack for Om Shanti Om. This is why a fine balancing act is done in the album with hardcore massy tracks like 'Deewangi Deewangi' [best of the lot], 'Dhoom Taana' and 'Dard-E-Disco' presented along with touching tracks like 'Aankhon Mein Teri', 'Main Agar Kahoon' and 'Jag Soona Soona Lage'. And then there is always a 'Dastaan-E-Om Shanti Om' to bring the nostalgia of 'Ek Haseena Thi' [Karz'].

Om Shanti Om is easily one of the most complete scores by Vishal-Shekhar and Javed Akhtar.

Don't forget to log in this Saturday to listen to Om Shanti Om songs, exclusively on IndiaFM

http://indiafm.com/movies/musicreview/12950/index.html

Translation Of OSO Songs

AJAB SI

Lyrics – Vishal
Singer – KK
Arranged by – Gopi Sunder
Percussion – Vikram
Flute – Naveen Iyer
Guitar – Amal Raj
Addl arrangement – Abhijeet

Ankhon mein teri ajab si ajab si adaayen hain
There's something special in your eyes
Dil ko banade jo patang saansein yeh teri woh hawaein hain
Your breath is the wind that makes my heart soar like a kite

Aayi aisi raat hai jo bahut khushnaseeb hai
This night is very lucky
Chahe jise door se duniya, woh mere kareeb hai
The one whom the whole world desires is close to me
Kitna kuch kehna hai phir bhi hai dil mein sawaal kahin
I have so much to say and yet I question….
Sapnon mein jo roz kaha hai woh phir se kahoon ya nahin
Should I voice what I've so often repeated in my heart?

Ankhon mein teri ajab si ajab si adaayen hain
There's something special in your eyes
Dil ko banade jo patang saansein yeh teri woh hawaein hain
Your breath is the wind that makes my heart soar like a kite

Tere saath saath aisa koi noor aaya hai
The light emanating from you
Chand teri roshni ka halka sa ek saaya hai
Makes even the moonlight but a pale shadow compared to you
Teri nazron ne dil ka kiya jo hashar, asar yeh hua
Your eyes created such a tumult in my heart that…
Ab inme hi doob ke ho jaoon paar, yahi hai dua
All I wish for now is to drown in them

Ankhon mein teri ajab si ajab si adaayen hain
There's something special in your eyes
Dil ko banade jo patang saansein yeh teri woh hawaein hain
Your breath is the wind that makes my heart soar like a kite

DARD-E-DISCO

Lyrics – Javed Akhtar
Singer – Sukhwinder Singh, Marianne, Nisha and Caralisa
Arranged by – Jackie V.
Percussion – T2 (Vibhas Rahul)

Woh haseena woh neelam pari
That beauty, that gorgeous fairy
Kar gayi kaisi jaadugari
Wove her magic on me
Neend in ankhon se chheen li hai
She took away my sleep
Dil mein bechainiyaan hai bhari
And filled my heart with restlessness
Main bechara, hoon awaara woh lau samjhaoon main yeh ab kis kisko
I'm a poor, wretched, soul and she's the flame…how do I make people understand
Dil mein mere hai dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco
My heart's on fire with disco fever
Dil mein mere hai dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco

(Boy you make me crazy, crazy with your lovin' and
When you touch me I'm in ecstasy
C'mon now hold me thrill me I'll be yours forever and
Baby you and I were meant to be)

Fasl-e-gul ki gulposhiyon ka mausam tha
It was springtime, the season of flowers
Hum par kabhi sargoshiyon ka mausam tha
It was the season of whispers
Kaisa junoon khwabon ki anjuman mein tha
What madness was in our dreams
Kya main kahoon kya mere baankpan mein tha
How can I explain the youth in me
Ranjish ka jala tha uvvara
The embers of grief burned
Toota jo khwab ka gubbara
When the balloon of dreams burst
Toh phirta hoon main London Paris New York LA San Francisco
So I roam in London, Paris, New York, LA, San Francisco
Dil mein mere hai dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco
My heart's on fire with disco fever
Dil mein mere hai dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco

(dard-e-disco, c'mon now let's go) – 4

Lamha lamha armanon ki farmaish thi
Every moment I wished for desires fulfilled
Lamha lamha jurrat ki aazmayi thi
Every moment I tested my courage
Abre karam ghir ghir ke mujhpe barsa tha
The cloud of good fortune rained down on me
Abre karam barsa toh tab mein tarsa tha
The showers left me feeling restless and eager
Phir door hua manzar mera, woh mera sanam dilbar mera
Then my beloved, my heart's desire, went away
Dil tod gaya mujhe chhod gaya woh pichle mahine ki chhabis ko
She left me and broke my heart, on the 26th of last month
Dil mein mere hai dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco
Dil mein mere hai dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco

Woh haseena woh neelam pari
That beauty, that gorgeous fairy
Kar gayi kaisi jaadugari
Wove her magic on me
Neend in ankhon se chheen li hai
She took away my sleep
Dil mein bechainiyaan hai bhari
And filled my heart with restlessness
Main bechara, hoon awaara woh lau samjhaoon main yeh ab kis kisko
I'm a poor, wretched, soul and she's the flame…how do I make people understand
Dil mein mere hai dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco
My heart's on fire with disco fever
Dil mein mere hai dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco, dard-e-disco

(Boy you make me crazy, crazy with your lovin' and
When you touch me I'm in ecstasy
C'mon now hold me thrill me I'll be yours forever and
Baby you and I were meant to be)

DEEWANGI DEEWANGI

Lyrics – Javed Akhtar
Singer – Shaan, Udit Narayan, Shreya Ghoshal, Sunidhi Chauhan and Rahul Saxena
Arranged by – Jackie V.

Dekho dekho hai shaam badi deewani
Look at this night; it's brimming with madness
Dheere dheere ban jaaye na koi kahani
Stories are created on such nights
Dilbar hai dilkash hai dildaar nazaren hain
Everything is so beautiful, so charming
Aaj zameen par uthre kitne sitaren hain
So many stars have descended on earth
Aklo hosh nami danam
No one has any wits left
Hum hain dil hain aur jaanam
Just us, our hearts and our lovers
Bas deewangi deewangi deewangi hai
There's complete madness in the air
Na koi rehsang na rehbar
There's no guide or leader
Yeh ilzaam lage kispar
No one can be accused of that
Bas deewangi deewangi deewangi hai
Just total madness in the air

(All hot girls put your hands up and say
Om Shanti Om
All cool boys c'mon make some noise and say
Om Shanti Om)

Shaam gazab ki hungama khez hai
The night is passionate, pulsing with excitement
Iska nasha hi gehra hai tez hai – 2
Its intoxication is deep and strong
Zulf khuli hain resham resham
Silky tresses flowing
Saans ghuli hain madham madham
Slow breaths mingling
Yeh to ishare hain
These are the signs
Aklo hosh nami danam
No one has any wits left
Hum hain dil hain aur jaanam
Just us, our hearts and our lovers
Bas deewangi deewangi deewangi hai
There's complete madness in the air
Na koi rehsang na rehbar
There's no guide or leader
Yeh ilzaam lage kispar
No one can be accused of that
Bas deewangi deewangi deewangi hai
Just total madness in the air

(All hot girls put your hands up and say
Om Shanti Om
All cool boys c'mon make some noise and say
Om Shanti Om)

Kehne ko vaise toh saara sukoon hai
Actually there's a lot of peace to be found here
Phir bhi yeh dil hai ke isko junoon hai
But this heart has gone insane
Pal do pal ko khwab saja de
Fill each moment with your dreams
Isko usko sabko bata de
And tell everyone
Raaz jo saare hain
The secrets of life

Aklo hosh nami danam
No one has any wits left
Hum hain dil hain aur jaanam
Just us, our hearts and our lovers
Bas deewangi deewangi deewangi hai
There's complete madness in the air
Na koi rehsang na rehbar
There's no guide or leader
Yeh ilzaam lage kispar
No one can be accused of that
Bas deewangi deewangi deewangi hai
Just total madness in the air

(All hot girls put your hands up and say
Om Shanti Om
All cool boys c'mon make some noise and say
Om Shanti Om)

MAIN AGAR KAHOON

Lyrics – Javed Akhtar
Singer – Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal
Arranged by – Jackie V.
Guitar – Chintu Singh

Tum ko paaya hai toh jaise khoya hoon
Having found you, I feel I've lost myself
Kehna chahoon bhi toh tumse kya kahoon
Even if I could, I wouldn't know what to say
Kisi zabaan mein bhi woh lavz hi nahin
There are no words in any language
Ke jinme tum ho kya tumhein bata sakoon
That I can use to describe you
Main agar kahoon tumsa haseen
If I were to say that a beauty like you
Qayanat mein nahin hai kahin
Cannot be found in the whole world
Tareef yeh bhi toh sach hai kuch bhi nahin
This compliment, in truth, would be nothing
Tum ko paaya hai toh jaise khoya hoon….

Shokiyon mein doobi yeh adayein
Your michievious style and grace
Chehre se jhalki hui hai
Spills out from your face
Zulf ki ghani ghani ghataein
Your thick cloud of hair
Shaan se dhalki hui hai
Rests on your shoulders with pride
Lehrata aanchal hai jaise badal
Your scarf floats in the wind like a cloud
Bahon mein bhari hai jaise chandni
Your arms are filled with moonlight
Roop ki chandni…..
moonlight of beauty

Main agar kahoon yeh dilkashi
If I were to say this splendour
Hai nahin kahin na hogi kabhi
Cannot be found anywhere and never will be
Tareef yeh bhi toh sach hai kuch bhi nahin
This compliment, in truth, would be nothing

Tum ko paaya hai toh jaise khoya hoon….

Tum hue meherbaan
It's your generosity
Toh hai yeh dastaan
That's led to this story
Ab tumhara mera ek hai caravan
Now our paths are the same
Tum jahan main wahaan
Where you are, there I'll be
Main agar kahoon humsafar meri
If I were to say, my soulmate
Apsara ho tum ya koi pari
That you're a nymph from heaven, a fairy
Tareef yeh bhi toh sach hai kuch bhi nahin
This compliment, in truth, would be nothing

Tum ko paaya hai toh jaise khoya hoon
Having found you, I feel I've lost myself
Kehna chahoon bhi toh tumse kya kahoon
Even if I could, I wouldn't know what to say
Kisi zabaan mein bhi woh lavz hi nahin
There are no words in any language
Ke jinme tum ho kya tumhein bata sakoon
That I can use to describe you
Main agar kahoon tumsa haseen
If I were to say that a beauty like you
Qayanat mein nahin hai kahin
Cannot be found in the whole world
Tareef yeh bhi toh sach hai kuch bhi nahin
This compliment, in truth, would be nothing

JAG SOONA SOONA LAGE

Lyrics – Javed Akhtar
Punjabi Lyrics – Kumaar
Singer – Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Richa Sharma
Arranged by - Jackie V.
Guitar – Kalyan Baruah

Main toh jiya na mara
I'm neither dead nor alive
Hai ve das main ki kara
Oh lord, what do I do?

Dil jude bina hi tut gaye hath mile bina hi chhut gaye
Hearts broke before they could join, hands parted before they could meet
Ki likhe ne lekh kismet ne
What has fate written for me?
Baar baar rod akhiyan tainu jo na vekh sakiyan
Tears rain down continuously without a glimpse of you
Khole aaye aaj kudrat ne
Even nature commiserates with me
Kataan main ki ve din teri soth tere bin
How do I pass the days and nights without you?
Main toh jiya na mara
I'm neither dead nor alive

Chhan se jo toote koi sapna
When a dream shatters in a flash
Jag soona soona laage, jag soona soona laage
The world seems an empty place
Koi rahe na jab apna
When there's no loved one left
Jag soona soona laage, jag soona soona hai toh
The world seems an empty place
Yeh kyun hota hai
Why does this happen?
Jab yeh dil rota hai
When the heart weeps
Roye sisak sisak ke hawein, jag soona laage
The winds sob along, the world feels empty

Chan se jo toote koi sapna
Jag soona soona laage, jag soona soona laage
Koi rahe na jab apna
Jag soona soona laage, jag soona soona laage re
Soona laage re

Roothi roothi saari raatein
Nights are cold and unforgiving
Pheeke pheeke saare din
The days are colorless
Veerani si veerani hai tanhaai si tanhaai hai
There's only loneliness and desolation
Aur ek hum hain pyar ke bin har palchin
And here I am, every moment without my love

Chhan se jo toote koi sapna
When a dream shatters in a flash
Jag soona soona laage, jag soona soona laage
The world seems an empty place
Koi rahe na jab apna
When there's no loved one left
Jag soona soona laage, jag soona soona hai toh
The world seems an empty place

Patharon ki is nagari mein
In this hard land
Pathar chehre, pathar dil
Are hard faces and hard hearts
Phirta hai maara maara kyun raahon mein tu awaara
Why are you wandering around aimlessly?
Yahan na hoga kuch haasil, mere dil
You're not going to find anything here, my heart

Chhan se jo toote koi sapna
When a dream shatters in a flash
Jag soona soona laage, jag soona soona laage
The world seems an empty place
Koi rahe na jab apna
When there's no loved one left
Jag soona soona laage, jag soona soona hai toh
The world seems an empty place
Yeh kyun hota hai
Why does this happen?
Jab yeh dil rota hai
When the heart weeps
Roye sisak sisak ke hawein, jag soona laage
The winds sob along, the world feels empty

Chhan se jo toote koi sapna
When a dream shatters in a flash
Jag soona soona laage, jag soona soona laage
The world seems an empty place
Koi rahe na jab apna
When there's no loved one left
Jag soona soona laage, jag soona soona laage re
The world seems an empty place
Soona….laage re more
Empty to me

DHOOM TAANA

Lyrics – Javed Akjtar
Singer – Shreya Ghoshal and Abhijeet
Arranged by – Jackie V.

Dhoom taana tanun tanananana
Dhoom taana tanun tanananana
Dhoom taana terena terena

Kaise nainon se nain milaoon sajna
How can my eyes meet yours, my love?Kaise main aise na ghabraoon sajna
How can I not be a bit nervous?
Kaise… aaye na aise mohe laaj sajna
How can I not feel bashful?
Chhuna na dekho mohe aaj sajna
I'm telling you, don't touch me, my love

Mrignaini tu na jaani
My doe-eyed beauty
Prem kitna mere man mein hai
I have so much love for you
Yeh bechaini maangti hai
This restlessness demands
Roop jo tere yauvan mein hai
The beauty of your youth
Tera phool sa hai ang tere ang mein hai rang
Your limbs are like flowers, so colorful
Tere rang ke main sang goriye
I want to be part of that color, my sweet
Tere rang mein hai roop tere roop mein hai dhoop
There's beauty in your color, and warmth in your beauty
Teri dhoop hai anoop goriye
Your warmth is unique, my sweet
Sajna se kahe aaye laaj sajni
Why are you shy of your lover?
Chhune de ang mohe aaj sajni
Let me touch you, my love

Jhalki jhalki phirti hoon
I strut around
Chhalki chhalki si phirti hoon
Swaying this way and that
Jism yeh mera koi jaam hai jaise
My body is like an intoxicant
Nazar milati hoon khwab mein sama jaati hoon
I gaze into eyes and enter their dreams
Dil mein bas jaana mera kaam hai jaise
Like I'm made for residing in people's hearts

Arre dil me mere bas ja maine roka kab hai
So reside in my heart, who stopped you?
Lekin kya armaan hai mera yeh toh samjhaane de
But let me explain my desires
Sajna se kahe aaye laaj sajni
Why are you shy of your lover?
Chhune de ang mohe aaj sajni
Let me touch you, my love

Dhoom taana tanun tanananana
Dhoom taana tanun tanananana
Dhoom taana terena terena

Kaise banjaara man ki baat mein aaye
How can a peasant girl take such chances?
Kaise ek raja ko manmeet banaye
How can she make a king her lover?
Kaise…pehnoon main pyar ka yeh taaj sajna
How can I wear your crown of love?
Karte ho tum kyun dil pe raaj sajna
Why do you rule my heart, lover?

Dhoom taana tanun tanananana
Dhoom taana tanun tanananana
Dhoom taana terena terena

Mrignaini tu na jaani
My doe-eyed beauty
Prem kitna mere man mein hai
I have so much love for you
Yeh bechaini maangti hai
This restlessness demands
Roop jo tere yauvan mein hai
The beauty of your youth
Mere meet tere geet tere geet mein hai preet
Your songs are my friends, your songs are filled with love
Teri preet meri jeet goriye
Your love is my victory, darling
Meri jeet mein bhi haar meri haar mein hai pyar
In my victory is my defeat, in my defeat there's love
Mere pyar mein iqraar goriye
In my love there's acceptance, my sweet
Bhool ke saare kaam-kaaj sajni
Forget everything else
Chhune de ang mohe aaj sajni
Let me touch you, my love

Aaye na aise mohe laaj sajna
How can I not feel bashful
Chhuna na dekho mohe aaj sajna
I'm telling you, don't touch me, my love

Dhoom taana tanun tanananana
Dhoom taana tanun tanananana
Dhoom taana terena terena

DASTAAN-E-OM SHANTI OM

Lyrics – Javed Akhtar
Singer – Shaan
Arranged by – Jackie V.
Performed by – The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra
Conducted by – Nic Raine
Supervision & Coordination – James Fitzpatrick

Sunnewalon, suno aisa bhi hota hai
Listen, all you people, it happens this way too
Dil deta hai jo woh jaan bhi khota hai
Those who love, lose their lives too
Pyar aisa jo karta hai, kya marke bhi marta hai
Ones who love like this, do they really die when they die?
Aao tum bhi aaj sunlo
Come and listen
Dastaan hai yeh ke ek tha naujawan jo dil hi dil mein ek haseena ka tha deewana
The story goes that there was once a young lad who was crazy for a beautiful girl
Woh haseena thi ke jiski khubsoorti ka duniya bhar mein tha mashhoor afsana
She was famous throughout the world for her beauty
Donon ki yeh kahani hai jis ko sabhi kehte hain Om Shanti Om
Their story is what everyone calls Om Shanti Om

Naujawan ki thi aarzoo, uski thi yahi justuju
The young lad wished and desired
Us haseena mein usko mile ishq ke saare rang –o-hoor
That he would find in her, love in all its splendour
Usne na jaana yeh naadani hai
He didn't realize how foolish he was
Woh reth ko samjha ke paani hai
He thought the sand was water
Kyun aisa tha kisliye tha yeh kahani hai…..
Why and how this happened is the story
Dastaan hai yeh ke us dilkash haseena ke nigahon dil mein koi doosra hi tha
The story goes that this beauty's eyes and heart belonged to someone else
Bekhabar is baat se us naujawan ke khwabon ka anjaam toh hona bura hi tha
The ignorant lad's dreams were bound to have a bad ending
Toote khwabon ki is dastaan ko sabhi kehte hain Om Shanti Om
This story of shattered dreams is what everyone calls Om Shanti Om

Sunnewalon, suno aisa bhi hota hai
Listen all you people, it happens this way too
Koi jitna hanse utna hi rota hai
One who laughs a lot weeps a lot tooDeewani hoke haseena khayi kya dhoke haseena
Madly in love, the beauty was betrayed
Aao tum bhi aaj sunlo
Come and listen
Dastaan hai yeh ke us masoom haseena ne jise chaha woh tha andar se harjaai
The story goes that the innocent beauty was in love with a treacherous man
Sangdil se dil lagake bewafa ke haath aake usne ek din maut hi paayi
By giving her heart to a merciless man, betrayed by him, she met her end one day
Ek sitam ka fasana hai jis ko sabhi kehte hain Om Shanti Om
The story of this injustice is what everyone calls Om Shanti Om

Kyun koi qaatil samajhta nahin
Why doesn't a murderer understand?
Yeh jurm woh hai jo chhupta nahin
A crime cannot be hidden
Yeh daag woh hai jo mit ta nahin
The stain cannot be erased
Rehte hain khooni ke raath par
It remains on his hands
Khoon us haseena ka jab tha hua
When that beautiful girl was murdered
Koi wahan tha pahunch toh gaya
Someone was there to help her
Lekin use toh bacha na saka
But he couldn't save her
Roye tha pyar uski maath par
He cried on her body
Dastaan hai yeh ke jo pehchaanta hai khooni ko woh naujawan hai lautke aaya
The story goes that the one who recognizes the murderer, that lad came back
Keh rahi hai zindagi qaatil samajh le uske sar pe chha chuka hai maut ka saaya
It's life's way of telling the murderer that the shadow of death surrounds him
Janmon ki karmon ki hai kahani jise kehte hain Om Shanti Om
This story of rebirth and destiny is what's called Om Shanti Om
kehte hain Om Shanti Om, kehte hain Om Shanti Om
What's called Om Shanti Om

Credit: Srk.org

Planet Bollywood music review

Reviewed by: Aakash Gandhi
Reviewer's Rating: 8.5 / 10

As Diwali '07 makes its way around the corner, we can all expect to witness the Best of Bollywood so to speak. Of course it's all speculation – but Farah Khan's Om Shanti Om is supposed to be one of the biggest, badest, most lavish products to hit floors this year. Well, it's a bit too early to lay a hand on the cinematic product, but it's time to extensively discuss its soundtrack – of which much has been said and speculated till date.

The fact that the film's music was first offered to A.R. Rahman says a lot. Obviously Farah felt the film was deserving of a soundtrack that emulates nothing less than extraordinary. Unfortunately, for whatever reason (speculations overflow), Rahman saab was forced to leave the project. Well, one man's loss is another man's gain. In this case, there are two lucky fellows who profit – the versatile duo of Vishal-Shekhar.

As if asking Vishal-Shekhar to fill the shoes of Rahman wasn't enough; Farah requested the musical ambiance to tip-toe along the R.D. Burmanesque trend. Yes, the music Is intended to take listeners back several decades…back to when "music was real music," whatever that is supposed to mean.

Sure, Vishal-Shekhar have faced expectations before, but none compared to the ones they face today. Not only will their skills be pushed to the limit, but their versatility and adaptability will be tested more so than ever. And finally we have lyricist Javed Akhtar, who has grown quite fond of Vishal-Shekhar as of late. I think I went through a minor anxiety attack while picking the CD up – probably because I keep praying and hoping V-S can finally give us that one score that will just knock your socks off, especially since their previous three soundtracks this year (Honeymoon Travels Pvt. Ltd., Ta Ra Rum Pum, and Cash) have definitely not been up to V-S standards. Enough chit-chat folks. Here we go…

Oh my how the God's of Music have smiled upon us! Ajab Si is arguably one of the most gentle pieces the year has to offer – its sounds, evoking an aura of fragile beauty. An acoustic-heavy composition, Vishal-Shekhar arrange a piece that highlights the MDs' strengths – light-hearted romance (yes it's a genre I've made up, but you know what I'm talking about). And if you don't know what I'm talking about, then listen to their techno-heavy work in CASH's soundtrack…now imagine the EXACT opposite. The composers keep it very simple when it comes to the sounds, yet their creative minds are working very intricately to come up with instrumentation rarely heard in today's racy musical world. Listen to the stanzas, and marvel at the skittish splashes of an intriguing synth that pans timidly from left to right – as if teasing the vocals. Or perhaps you'd like to glance over at the shy stringing of a harp, whose very brief presence seems to want to entice, lure, and charm the listener.

In many ways, 'Ajab Si' reminds us of a previous gem by V-S, which was quick to be forgotten – Chand Ki Roshni from the film 'Home Delivery.' And the similarities continue into the vocals, as it is K.K. once again who is blessed with the opportunity to render one of V-S's greatest tunes. Or wait, are V-S the ones blessed to have K.K. render one of his greatest songs? Well, either way – both are very privileged. I know it's clich but…It's as if K.K. was born to sing this very song. His evocative vocals seamlessly latch onto the acoustic rhythm, becoming one with the music. Vishal pens this one himself and is at his romantic best. Little credit is ever given to Vishal, who writes a lot of his own songs with elegance. However, so much of your attention will simply be captivated by the musical and vocal elements of the piece that you will find yourself completely unaware of the lyrics at times, as was the case with me during my first exposure to this gorgeous spectacle of sound. Excuse me, while I have another listen…

Next up we have Dard-E-Disco, three words I doubt you will ever hear together again. OK – this is what V-S are somewhat known for (heavy beats, loud sounds, arrangements belonging to the techno/club genre). Of course if you were to ask me, I feel Track #1 is what they are best at. But I digress. Dard-E-Disco is a song that holds a creative glass that is half-empty. Arrangements contain sounds that were previously utilized in their albums like Dus and Cash. To add to the creative-lacking and non-evocative arrangements, the melody holds no catch value either. Sukhwinder Singh performs well, as usual, but the singer is only as good as the song he is given, right? Not to mention, the constant repetition of the 'Dard-E-Disco' refrain will begin to test even the most patient of nerves. Singers Marianne, Nisha, and Caralisa Monteiro form a female chorus to back Sukhi. Any guess as to what the chorus sings? "Dard-E-Disco…Dard-E-Disco." NEXT!

And those Gods are beginning to grin once again. Deewangi Deewangi is a treat for everyone to shake a leg to. This exciting dance number is animatedly lit with the addictive tune of a fargo synth, which paves the way for a colorful number one would expect from a Farah Khan film – very Yash Rajish. Although V-S invigorate the composition with a lot of modern instruments the piece does carry the intended nostalgia, which is felt through the musical interims via the strings. The vocal cast includes Shaan, Udit Narayan, Rahul Saxena (Indian Idol talent), Shreya Ghoshal, and Sunidhi Chauhan. Rahul, albeit in a very brief appearance, appears as the misfit of the group – his timid vocals don't match the power and energy that has been exulted by the other singers. Although the infectious number could have done away with the English lyrics throughout, the piece is still extremely enjoyable and will be a pure treat to savor on screen – especially since SRK will be going wild after a long time in this number. Folks, treat yourself to some unadulterated fun and "put your hands up in the air and sing OM SHANTI OM."

Ah, and this is where the real nostalgia kicks in. Main Agar Kahoon reminds us of some of the timeless romantic melodies heard throughout the 70s, rendered most often by the great Moh'd Rafi – perhaps that's why V-S roped in Sonu Nigam to render this tender orchestral piece. Is it just a coincidence that Sonu sings a Moh'd Rafi tune…and the film happens to be about reincarnation? But Anyways…the song begins with a heavy orchestral flute, lined by the staccato play of an acoustic guitar. This intro slivers underneath the vocals throughout the piece. In addition, we hear lots of pianist renditions, which are nicely balanced by a very varied ensemble of percussion. Although the melody brings us remembrance of what melody once was decades ago, it does not particularly embody a melody that has been used to its fullest potential. However, the duet between Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghoshal (arguably the greatest duet combination of the new millennium) makes this song worth keeping on your playlist. In fact, while I was listening to this piece, it was amidst a stormy, very dark, yet very peaceful night – creating the perfect atmosphere for such a romantically haunting composition. All in all, this is a very commendable performance by Vishal and Shekhar.

V-S put us in a time machine, taking us back to the 60s and 70s where we experience a very lively Dhoom Tana. Although V-S had gone back in time to do arrangements before ('Kyon Aaga Peeche' from the film Golmaal – Fun Unlimited), they've never done something to this extent. With this composition, V-S have single-handedly proven that they are amongst the most perceptive and versatile composers India has. From the instruments used, the melody structuring, right down to the fine variations in singing style, V-S have successfully created a sense of Dj vu for any listener who is familiar with the sounds of yesteryear. Abhijeet and Shreya Ghoshal also deserve a pat on the back for seamlessly mixing with the style and genre that V-S have brought back decades later. Javed Akhtar plays his role well as the lyricist. Verdict: It's as if Laxmikant, Pyarelal, and R.D. Burman rose from the dead to compose this track!

Flash-forward to 2007 and Vishal-Shekhar stop on a dime to create a heart-wrenching composition featuring one of the greatest voices today – Rahat Fateh Ali Khan. The piece under the microscope is Jag Soona Soona Lage. Although V-S use one steadily arranged rhythm throughout the piece, it's done with intent, purpose, and care. I'm a firm believer that an arranger/composer (you can't really use those words interchangeably anymore in Bollywood) need not mix a variety of rhythms or raags into a piece to create creative quality – rather, if a single constructive rhythm contains quality in itself, it may very well be fitting to use that one rhythm throughout – and this is EXACTLY what Vishal-Shekhar do, and they take full advantage of it.

The somber, yet seductive rhythm paves a path upon which RFAK can put down his gut-wrenching vocals, which he has done superbly! Of course I don't want to skip over Richa Sharma's brilliant introduction, as she pours her heart out in her signature Punjabi folk style, rendering lyrics (Punjabi) by Kumaar. Apart from the steady rhythm and RFAK's magnificent vocalization, V-S try not to touch their creation any more, and rightfully restrict to just pouring a little string under the vocals for instrumental support. And if you wonder why I haven't been giving much attention to Javed Akhtar throughout the album, it's because I was waiting for him to write a song just like this – soulful…sad…exquisite. He writes on a man's desolation…a man's loss…a man's cry. And my goodness how he delivers! Verdict: After 'Ajab Si' took away the Gold in breath-taking fashion, 'Jag Soona Soona Lage' comes in a close second.

Ok, now Vishal-Shekhar are just plain showing off! Dastaan-E-Om Shanti Om is the perfect culmination to a truly versatile soundtrack. For the very first-time, Vishal-Shekhar give us an orchestral piece – but it's not a conventional orchestral piece by any means. By using a slight rock influence to serve as the arranged base, V-S build upon it with various orchestral elements like strings, orchestral flute, harp, oboe etc. The song is based off of the unforgettable classic 'Ek Haseena Thi' from the film Karz. Shaan's rendition will put a chill down your spine, while Javed Akhtar builds upon the pre-conceived lyrics, keeping in line with the haunting effect of this themed piece. This piece, as all orchestral pieces, can only truly be appreciated once you listen to it for yourself. No critique or review of mine will be able to sum up the effect this piece had on me. I urge you.

The final five tracks comprise of four remixes and one theme piece. The remixes are quite ordinary, and I will avoid wasting my time discussing them at any length. However, the Om Shanti Om Theme Music is a petite pianist rendition of the theme music heard in Dastaan-E-Om shanty Om and other tracks throughout the soundtrack. It will be a soothing experience to hear it played in the backdrops of the film.

Nobody will be as relieved as I was when I heard Om Shanti Om. Why? Because it's been since early 2005, after the release of soundtracks like Shabd and Home Delivery that V-S have been able to finally get back on the horse and show us what they are really capable of. With Om Shanti Om, the energy, the quality, the passion, the urge to be creative has all suddenly rushed back into the heads of these extremely talented young MDs.

For most people, composing under such high expectations and for such a huge film, especially after it was initially offered to Rahman the Great, would spell disaster, as they'd probably crack under the pressure. But not only have V-S proven themselves in terms of musical ingenuity and quality, they have shown us the confidence, the poise, and the ability to step up to the plate and hit a grand-slam when they're called upon to do so. Oh and I forgot to mention their unbelievable versatility – coming up with something so diverse and well-crafted after releasing a techno-heavy/monotonous album in the form of Cash just a few months prior.

Of course when the film releases, people will all but forget the gentlemen behind the music. But today is your day V-S. I give you a standing ovation.

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