Rani Mukherjee launches 'Eight Stages of

Pandit Shivkumar Shankar and Javed Akhtar teamed up after 25 years to compose the album which, as the name suggests, has eight songs that describe the stages of love through ever lasting melodies.

The commentary between the tracks has been narrated by Bollywood icon Naseeruddin Shah.

Talking about the album, Pandit Shivkumar Sharma said: "There are different emotions in the album, but they are all based on love and romance. There is also a commentary that takes you from one track to another which is written by Javed and very effectively narrated by Naseeruddin Shah".

Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, who had earlier worked with Javed Akhtar for director Yash Chopra's movie 'Silsila' in 1981, heaped praise on the famous lyricist for his understanding of music.

"Javed is not only a good poet but also has a good understanding of lyrics, music and rhythm. Working with a writer such as him has been an unforgettable experience," he said.

Talking about Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma, Javed Akhtar said that the duo had achieved such a level of comfort while working on the album that they had already decided to work together again in the future.

"I don't think Shiv Kumar Sharma needs any appreciation as he is a master in music. I have experienced such level of comfort while working with him that we have decided to continue working together," he said.

Singers like Kavita Krishnamurthy, Babul Supriyo and M.G.Srinivas have lent their voice to the album.

The album also includes a video on the track 'Koi Ajnabee Mila' directed by Ratna Sinha that features Pandit Shivkumar Sharma and Javed Akhtar.