Glimpses of Saxophone can be heard in the Laxmikant-Pyarelalorchestra in many songs.
Laxmikant-Pyarelal had a very good association with Saxophonist Manohari Singh since 1958. He had come to Mumbai in mid fifties. Since their younger days they were very good friends and worked a lot together, with Kalyanji Virji Shah, then, (Kalyanji-Anandji)
There are many songs in which Laxmikant-Pyarelal has incorporated Saxophonist Manohari Singh in Jazz flute or saxophone, till early seventies. Later Saxophonist Shri SureshYadavplayed the saxophone in Laxmikant-Pyarelal orchestra
लेडीज़ एंड जेंटलमेन। ….के मैं आया हूँ !!
AND DEV ANAND
The song Ladies and Gentlemen, Ke Main Aaya Hoon,,, sung by Kishore Kumar for the film Amir Garib, 1974. The song is penned by Anand Bakshi and composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal is one of the nonpareil songs composed on SAXOPHONE, played by Manohari Singh.
This song, Main Aaya Hoon, is one of the toughest and very complicated saxophone prelude and interlude pieces. Manohari Singh himself said in an interview that this piece composed and written by Pyarelalji is the hardest ever saxophone piece I have played in HFM.
Actor Dev Anand who was to act on this song as a saxophonist, had to carry out practice sessions for 15 days to look like an impeccable / perfect saxophonist on the screen.
Pantomimist Sanjeev Kumar and Songful Laxmikant-Pyarelal
Versatile actor Sanjeev Kumar started his film career, with a limited role of police inspector, in the film ‘Hum Hindustani’, released in 1960. Sanjeev Kumar had to wait till 1965 when he started acting as a lead role in ‘Nishan’.
Affiliation of Sanjeev Kumar with Laxmikant-Pyarelal started with a superhit musical made by L V Prasad “Raja Aur Rank” released in 1968. Sanjeev Kumar have worked close to 30 films which has the music by Laxmikant-Pyarelal
Raja Aur Rank 1968
Satyakam 1969
Jeene Ki Raah 1969
Dharti Kahe Pukar Ke 1968
Khilona 1970
Devi 1970
Bachpan 1970
Man Mandir 1971
Subah-O -Sham 1972 ( Made and Partially Financed by Government of IRAN)
Suraj Aur Chanda 1973
Manchali 1973
Anhonee 1973
Shandaar 1974
Naya Din Nayi Raat 1974
Apne Rang Hazar 1975
Aakraman 1975
Do Ladkiyan 1976
Apnapan 1977
Iman Dharam 1977
Maan Apman 1978
Jaani Dushman 1978
Hum Paanch 1980
Jyoti Bane Jwala 1980
Waqt Ki Deewar 1981
Ladies Tailor 1981
Hero 1983
Bad Aur Badnam 1984
Qatl 1985
Laxmikant-Pyarelal have utilised following of the singers for Sanjeev Kumar
Mohammad Rafi
KIshore Kumar
Mukesh
Binaca Geetmala :-
Total 15 songs from Sanjeev Kumar films, music by Laxmikant-Pyarelal, appeared in Binaca Geetmala Finals. The songs of Raja Aur Rank, Devi, Khilona, Suraj Aur Chanda, Manchali, Anhonee, Apane Rang Hazar etc. were regularly appeared in weekly countdown.
Major Binaca Geetmala Finals
1968 11th position Mera Naam Hai Chameli Raja Aur Rank
1970 5 th position Khilona Jaan Kar Tum ToKhilona
1970 11th position Shadi Ke Liye Razamand Devi
1974 25th position Gham Ka Fasana Manchali
1974 25th position O Manchali Kahan ChaliManchali
1979 26th position Chalo Re Doli UthaoJaani Dushman
Filmfare Awards.
1970 “Khilona” was awarded the best feature film.
Review of Sanjeev Kumar’s selected songs, composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal
The orchestra arrangements in “preludes” and “interludes” used to be the assets of the songs composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal. It would be more proper to listen to the songs after reading the write up, explaining peculiarities, for each of the songs, you will enjoy it more.
Raja Aur Rank 1968
The film is a story of a prince and a pauper. It is a Costume hindi movie, directed by K. P. Atma, for the producer L V Prasad (Prasad Productions) starring Sanjeev Kumar, Nazima, Nirupa Roy, Ajit, Kumkum and Mahesh Kothare (in double roll). It has very popular songs which carry the audiences to the cinema hall. Each and every song was hit.
-Tu Kitni Achchhi Hai O Maa ….Lata (most popular song on “MAA”, Mother.
-Mera Naam Hai Chameli…..Lata..(Lata – LP classic)
-Mere Raja Mere Lal...Asha -Usha
-Rang Basanti …Rafi-Lata
-O Kanhaiya ….Lata – Manna Dey
-Firkiwali Tu Kal Phir Aana… Mohammad Rafi (Anand Bakshi)
Super hit song, still popular, filmed on Sanjeev Kumar and Nazima.Romantically written, rendered and mellifluously orchestrated song. Rhythm of DHOLAK is worth listening to. Prelude and the interludes are excellently decorated with VIOLINS, GUITAR and BASS CLARINET.
Devi 1970
The film stars Sanjeev Kumar – Nutan. It has some melodious songs. The famous pop singer Usha Uthup (Usha Iyer) was introduced for the first time in this film.
-Ek Hai Sab Hindustani….Asha
–Kya Jhootha Lagta Hai ...Rafi
-Jogan Pritam Ki...Usha Iyer
-Shadi Ke Liye Raja Mand Kar Li… Mohammad Rafi (Anand Bakshi)
Hit song of the film. Filmed on Sanjeev Kumar – Nutan. Typical LP style composition with accordant DHOLAK / TABLA rhythm. Since it is a pre-wedding song SHEHNAI / NADASWARAM are orchestrated with VIOLINS, in both the interludes.
Sweet and melodious duet. Interludes are orchestrated with SITAR, symphony style VIOLINS, FLUTE, SHEHNAI / NADASWARAM and ACOUSTIC GUITAR. FLUTE is awesomely used as a ‘filler’ in ‘Mukhada’ .
Khilona 1970
It was a huge hit movie, made by L V Prasad (Prasad Productions). Sweet sounding music is an asset of the film. Both Sanjeev Kumar and Mumtaz with their powerful acting got the ‘star’ status. It was awarded, filmfare, the “best picture” of 1970. Actress Mumtaz also won the best actress filmfare award. an asset of the film. Sovereign direction from Chandan Vohra.
–Sanam Tu Bewafa Ke Naam Se….Lata
-Khush Rahe Tu Sada…….M. Rafi
-Main Sharabi Nahin….Asha-Rafi
-Ek Natak Kavi...Lata – Manna Dey
-Roz Roz Rozi...Asha – Kishore
-Khilona Jaan Kar Tum…..Mohammad Rafi (Anand Bakshi)
Famous song, title song, rendered by Rafi sahab with pain. No words to describe the elegance of Mohd Rafi. The song starts with the ‘aalap’. It has a wonderful DHOLAK rhythm. Interludes are beautifully orchestrated with SITAR, MANDOLIN, VIOLINS and SAROD. In the second interlude symphony, VIOLINa are tunefully synchronized with SHEHNAI.
Bachpan 1970
It was produced and directed by K P Atma. Starring Sanjeev Kumar – Tanuja. Good music.
-Mother Mary ..Lata
-Parda Uthne Wala Hai…Lata
-Are Munia Re Munia ...Kishore
-Aaya Re Khilone Wala ...Mohammad Rafi (Anand Bakshi)
Mohammad Rafi, Anand Bakshi and Laxmikant-Pyarelal at their melodious best. The ‘prelude’ of 24 seconds, full of FLUTE, Symphony Style VIOLINS set the mood of this sorrowful song. ‘Antara’ has a mellifluous filler of FLUTE. The beauty of this song is ::(From 1.38 to 1.50 ) Rafi Saab gives 4 seconds ‘pause’ to enjoy the SANTOOR. Then there is “rhythmic” ‘pause’ Rafi saab’s tuneful rendering and the ‘stroke’ of SANTOOR. Both the ‘interludes’ are orchestrated with symphony style VIOLINS and FLUTE. Song is filmed on SANJEEV KUMAR
Man Mandir 1971
Musical hit film starring Sanjeev Kumar-Waheeda Rehman
-Ai Meri Aankhon Ke Sapne...Lata-Mukesh (an excellent ‘lory’ / lullaby)
-Aa Aaja Abhi Nahin…..Kishore-Asha
-Munna Jayega Bazaar…Suman Kalyanpur
-Jadugar Tere Naina… Kishore Kumar – Lata Mangeshkar (Rajendra Krishnan)
An extremely melodious song. Breezing orchestra arrangements with the use of IRANI SANTOOR, SAXOPHONE and SYMPHONY style VIOLINS synchronised with BONGO/CONGA Drums rhythm. Sanjeev Kumar-Waheeda Rehman.
Suraj Aur Chanda 1973
Directed by T. Ramarao, it was a “King – Queen” drama starring Sanjeev Kumar and Rita Haskar with some very good song.
-Honi To Hoke Rahe …Mukesh-Lata
-Gaon Main Pipple...Rafi
-Tere Naam Ka Deewana. .. Mohammad Rafi (Anand Bakshi)
Melodious tune, beautifully orchestrated in Symphony style VIOLINS with traditional LP DHOLAK rhythm. Enjoy the ‘pause’ at 0.30 for 3 seconds highlighting the DHOLAK rhythm & SITAR, as filler. Interludes are instrumented with SHEHNAI / NADASWARAM, SANTOOR, SITAR and VIOLINS.
Manchali 1973
Producer – Director Raja Nawathe’s musical hit film. Sanjeev Kumar opposite Leena Chandavarkar. It was a comedy film, well directed and acted.
-Kali Kali Chume...Lata
-Tan Man Dhan Sab Hai Tera…Mukesh
-Mile Kahin Do Ajnabi…Kishore
–Ghum Ka Fasana Kishore Kumar-Leena Chandavarkar (Anand Bakshi)
Glamorous as well as effortless rendering by Kishore Kumar. Amorously supported by LEENA ji. Absorbing as well as entertaining DHOLAK rhythm. “Interludes” are euphonically orchestrated with GUITAR, SANTOOR, FLUTE as well as VIOLINS. Interestingly DHOLAK rhythm disappears in “Interludes”. Both Sanjeev Kumar as well as Leena Chandavarkar look glamorous.
Super-hit song. Prelude of 34 seconds BASS GUITAR, VIOLINS, ELECTRIC GUITAR wonderfully synchronized with BONGO DRUM rhythm. Brilliant take off by Kishor Kumar.
ओ मनचली कहाँ चली…it has a BONGO DRUM rhythm. GUITAR sounds good as filler, after every word ओ मनचली कहाँ चली rendered by Kishore Kumar. First interlude is orchestrated with SAXOPHONE and VIOLINS.
Naya Din Nayi Raat 1974
Sanjeev Kumar in NINE different roles. Jaya Bhaduri was the leading lady. Was an average hit film with good music.
Lively involved voice, supported by the great Saneev Kumar’s restrained but natural performance for this tipsy song. Enraptured “prelude” of 26 seconds full of IRANI SANTOOR, SAXOPHONE, ELECTRIC GUITAR, ACOUSTIC GUITAR and ACCORDION with the “boozy” entry from Sanjeev Kumar at the same time brilliant take off by Rafi Saab. “Interludes” are euphonically orchestrated with ELECTRIC GUITAR, ACCORDION, SYMPHONY VIOLINS and IRANI SANTOOR. Just listen to the second “interlude”delirious “aalap” by Rafi Saab, SYMPHONY VIOLINS and the awesome overlapping sound effect of IRANI SANTOOR with ACCORDION. In-spite of the use of western instruments the DHOLAK ‘rhythm gives you an ear-pleasing moment throughout the song.
-Krishna Krisihna Bolo Krishna…..Lata Mangeshkar- Kishore Kumar (Rajendra Krishnan)
One of the rarest of rare ‘devotional’ song sung by Kishore Kumar (with Lata Mangeshkar).
“Prelude” of 34 seconds is full of traditional religious instruments, sets the mood of this extremely melodious song. Kishorji’s beautiful take off, rendering, “Krishna Krishna” is a mesmerizer. Entire song is rendered in a ‘soft’ voice and on high pitch too. The song is orchestrated with SITAR and FLUTE with the ‘rhythm’ of MRIDANGAM. Another ‘beauty’ of this “Bhajan” is the overlapping sound effect of rendering of Kishoreji and Lataji, in different tunes and notes
Apne Rang Hazaar 1975
-Ganga Mein Duba Na Jamuna Main Duba…Lata Mangeshkar (Anjan)
The song, ‘prelude’ of 16 seconds, starts with ‘stroke’ IRANI SANTOOR followed by FLUTE awesomely synchronized with enthralling DHOLAK rhythm which is consistent throughout the song. The first ‘interlude’ is orchestrated with MANDOLIN, BRASS INSTRUMENT and VIOLINS. Second ‘interlude’ starts with VIOLINS and wonderful work on FLUTE and VIOLINS. Mellifluously rendered by Lata Mangeshkar. This beautiful song is filmed on Leena Chandavarkar & Sanjeev Kumar.
Jaani Dushman 1979
This was a horror film produced / directed by Rajkumar Kohlli. It was a musical hit.
-Tere Haathon Mein Pehna Ke Chudiya …Rafi-Asha
-Sare Rishte Naate ..Lata
-Aisi Waisi Na Samajh….Asha
–O Meri Jaan ….Kishore – Anuradha
-Sun Bhai Sadho….Mahendra-Kishore-Asha
-Chalo Re Doli Uthao …..Mohammad Rafi (Verma Malik)
Perfect wedding song. Orchestrated with SHEHNAI / NADASWARAM and VIOLINS. Wonderful DHOLAK rhythm.
Ladies Tailor 1981
It was an average hit movie with beautiful songs.
-Do Chahne Walon Ki Mulaqat Hai Wallah…..Mohmmad Rafi – Lata Mangeshkar (Majrooh Sultanpuri)
An extremely melodious song. ‘Prelude’ of 59 seconds starts with SARANGI, FLUTE and VIOLINS. It stops at 54, starts of DHOLAK rhythm, synchronised with the GHUNGROO BELLS, it’s one type of “pause” for 3 seconds. First interlude SARANGI, FLUTE synchronising with each other. VIOLINS synchronizing with SANTOOR. Third interlude starts with MANDOLIN, FLUTE, SANTOOR and VIOLINS. Last interlude FLUTE, VIOLINS, SHEHNAI. GHUNGROO BELLS continue to play with rhythm, throughout the song. It is filmed on Sanjeev Kumar and Reena Roy.
Sharmila Tagore is one of the iconic veteran actresses of the Indian Cinema. She was one of the few actresses who got many musical hit films. A Bengali actress who achieved success at a very young age. Sharmila Tagore appeared in numerous Bengali classics before making the jump to Hindi cinema, which first made her a romantic actress.
1967 was the busiest year for Laxmikant-Pyarelal. The duo was in full form then with a series of hits, “Farz”, “Anita”, “Night In London”, ”Jaal”, ”Shagird”, “Patthar Ke Sanam” and “Milan”. In the same year Laxmikant-Pyarelal got an opportunity to compose the music for R. Bhattacharya’s Black and White, Sharmila Tagore – Sanjay Khan starrer “Milan Ki Raat”.
Laxmikant-Pyarelal music was associated for as many as 10 films of Sharmila Tagore. Music of “Mere Hamdam Mere Dost” 1968, “Suhana Safar”, 1970 and Yash Chopra’s “Daag”, 1973, remains the best of the ten.
1 Milan Ki Raat 1967
2 Mere Hamdam Mere Dost 1968
3 Satyakam 1969
4 Pyasi Shaam 1969
5 Suhana Safar 1970
6 Dastaan 1972
7 Daag 1973
8 Shandaar 1974
9 Anari 1975
10 Desh Premi 1982
11 Aashiq Awara 1993
Laxmikant-Pyarelal utilised only three singers for Sharmila Tagore.
Lata Mangeshkar
Asha Bhosle
Suman Kalyanpur (“Suhana Safar” Title Track)
BINACA GEETMALA:–
Sharmila Tagore’s total 6 numbers of final songs which has music by Laxmikant-Pyarelal, appeared in Binaca Geetmala Finals. “Milan Ki Raat”, 1967 Aankh Milaye Na Muskuraye Na at 21st position. Two songs from “Mere Hamdam Mere Dost”, 1968 Chhalkaye Jaam 24thposition and Chalo Sajna Jahan Tak 14th position. One song from “Dastan”, 1972, Na Tu Zameen Ke Liye 34th position. Two songs from “Daag” 1973, Mere Dil Main Aaj Kya Hai, 20th position and Ab Chahe Ma Ruthe Ya Baba 7th position.
However, many songs from “Mere Hamdam Mere Dost”, “Daag” (in addition to the final songs), “Satyakam”, “Suhana Safar” and “Pyasi Sham” did appear in weekly countdown but failed to reach ‘finals’.
Review of some of the best songs composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal for Sharmila Tagore.
The orchestra arrangements in “preludes” and “interludes” used to be the assets of the songs composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal. It would be more proper to listen to the songs after reading the write up, explaining peculiarities, for each of the songs, you will enjoy it more.
1 MILAN KI RAAT 1967
Sanjay Khan-Sharmila Taigore starer. This film was released in 1967 when Laxmikant-Pyarelal was right on TOP. The duo’s other musical hits like, ‘Farz’, ‘Shagird’, “Patthar Ke Sanam’, ‘Night In London’, ‘Anita’, ‘Jaal’ and ‘Milan’ were also released. “Milan Ki Raat” was an average hit with a couple of good songs.
— Gham Ki Badli chhayi….Mukesh
— Chinta Mat Kariyo Ji...Lata
— Babu Re Babu...Asha
— Doom Tara Ek Doom Tara
(Lyricist:- Anand Bakshi. Singer :- Asha Bhosle)
17 seconds of ‘prelude’, stroke of GUITAR followed by awesome trembling by Ashaji..दुम तारा एक दुम तारा दो दम ताराfollowed by female CHORUS singing. A unique composition by utilizing female CHORUS. At the end of each “Antara”, Ashaji has tunefully synchronised her rendering, after the rhythmic ‘pause’ with female CHORUS, that is the best part of this song. ‘Interludes’ are orchestrated with GUITAR, VIOLINS, CHORUS, BAGPIPER and superb “AALAPS” as well as “HUMMING” by Ashaji. Sharmilal Tagore has gamboled excellently by integrating the exclusive rhythm created for this song. One of the best songs of Asha Bhosle with Laxmikant-Pyarelal.
–Aankh Milaye Na Muskuraye Na
(Singer:- Mohammad Rafi Songwriter:- Anand Bakshi))
This song is effortlessly sung by Rafi saab in a “ROCK N ROLL” style, synchronizing his rendering with BONGO DRUMS ‘rhythm’. Another beauty of the song is that it is completely woven around the glimpses of GUITAR, in the ‘interludes’ and as ‘filler’ to create a romantic feel through the orchestra.
HIT song of 1967 at “right” moment…When late Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi Playing Test Cricket at Leeds (UK), “proposed” Sharmila Tagore, by scoring brilliant Century (148 runs).
2 MERE HAMDAM MERE DOST 1968 An outstanding musical album from the legends Laxmikant-Pyarelal and Majrooh Sultanpuri. As many as “ 7 SOLO”” songs….4 lovely, melodious solo songs by Lata Mangeshkar and 3 mellifluous solo sung by Mohammad Rafi. The film was directed by Amar Kumar, starring Dharmendra – Sharmila Tagore and Mumtaz.
Laxmikant-Pyarelal were in supreme form in 1967/68. Whatever Laxmikant-Pyarelal composed used to become popular and hit. MERE HAMDAM MERE DOST is one of the best musical albums, ever-fresh, ever-green. The songs are popular even today. Almost all the songs are melodious and sweet and are beautifully decorated with wonderful orchestra arrangements.
— Chhalkaye Jaam …Rafi
— Tum Jao Kahin ..Lata
— Allah Ye Ada Kaisi ….Lata
— Hame To Ho Gaya Hai Pyar.…Lata
— Hui Sham Unka Khayal.…Lata
— Chalo Sajana Jahan Tak Ghata Chale
(Singer:- Lata Mangeshkar Songwriter:- Majrooh Sultanpuri)
“Prelude” is full of VIOLINS and SAXOPHONE, beautiful “pause” at the start…The way Lataji sings the words.. “Chalo oooo….” and ‘laga kar mujhe ‘’’gale ..eee”””………is the ‘beauty’ of romantic rendering. First “interlude” full of SANTOOR and later with VIOLINS just brilliant. Second “interlude” starts with SAXOPHONE. VIOLINS are overlapped with the sound of SANTOOR. Third “interlude” starts with VIOLINS and ends with FLUTE. Not to forget about different types of DHOLAK rhythm…and “pause” by Lataji at the end.
— Na Ja Kahin Ab Na Ja
(Singer:- Mohammad Rafi. Songwriter:- Majrooh Sultanpuri)
Romantically sung and composed an addict song. “Prelude” is full of Rafi sab’s ‘humming’ and VIOLINS. The entire song is composed of the western style rhythm created on ACOUSTIC GUITAR. In all the ‘interludes’ .ACCORDION, BASS GUITAR and VIOLINS are beautifully executed without changing the rhythm.
MERE HAMDAM MERE DOST is the rarest of rare musical film by Laxmikant-Pyarelal which could not do any magic at the box office. Even preLATA MANGESHKAR & Laxmikant-Pyarelal “classic”sense of BIG stars Dharmendra/Sharmila Tagore/Mumtaz could not do anything. But the songs “clicked”.
3 SATYAKAM 1969
Satyakam is directed, in a persuasive manner by Hrishekesh Mukharjee. Other assets are powerful performances by Dharmendra, Sharmila Tagore and Sanjeev Kumar , excellent dialogues by Rajendrasingh Bedi as well as melodious music by Laxmikant-Pyarelal who were working with Lyricist Kaifi Azmi for the first time.
— Abhi Kya Sunoge ..Lata
— Zindagi Hai Kya Bolo… Mukesh, Mahendra Kapoor, Kishore Kumar
— Do Din Ki Zindagi….
(Singer:- Lata Mangeshkar. Songwriter:- Kaifi Azmi.)
An extremely melodious song. SANTOOR in 14 seconds ‘prelude’. Beautiful DHOLAK/TABLA rhythm. First interlude is orchestrated with SANTOOR, SAROD, FLUTE and solo VIOLINS. Second ‘interlude’ is full of SITAR and SAROD. Third ‘interlude’ awesome AALAP by Lataji as well as solo VIOLINS. Also listen to the ‘rhythmic “pause”
4 PYASI SHAM 1969
Starring Sharmila Tagore – Sunil Dutt. Average hit. Good Songs.
— Aawara Mazi...Rafi
— Yaron Mera Saath ….Rafi
— Duniya Mein Dilwale….Rafi-Lata
— Yeh Kaisa Gham Sajna
(Singer:- Lata Mangeshkar. Songwriter:- Majrooh Sultanpri)
Inebriant, INTOXICATED Song. LATA MANGESHKAR and Laxmikant-Pyarelal “classic” An extremely melodious song. Lata Mangeshkar sounds very sweet with an enthralling orchestra arrangement from Laxmikant-Pyarelal . In ‘prelude’ and all the three ‘interludes’ harmonised with different tunes, by using ELECTRIC GUITAR (played by late Gorakh Sharma, the brother to Pyarelalji) sounds very appealing, symphony VIOLINS, ACOUSTIC GUITAR and ACCORDION, also used as a ‘filler’ in all the three ‘antaras’. Not to forget the “rhythm” amusingly arranged with the BONGO DRUMS. Sharmila Tagore looks smoking hot. Sunil Dutt totally intoxicated. GUITAR played in the song, mesmerizes the listeners.
5 SUHANA SAFAR 1970
Sharmila Tagore with Shashi Kapoor, very good songs.
— Paise Ka Kya Yakeen…Rafi
— Tim Tim Chamke Re…Lata
— Aaha Aaha Aa Ye Suhana Safar…Rafi
— Sari Khushiya Hai
(Singer:- Mohammad Rafi. Songwriter:- Anand Bakshi)
Mohammad Rafi, Laxmikant-Pyarelal & Anand Bakshi Simply Outstanding, The ‘Interludes’ are excellently, mellifluously & melodiously orchestrated with ‘symphony’ VIOLINS. and ACOUSTIC GUITAR.. Both the “antras” are surrounded with ‘symphony’ VIOLINS. Also enjoy tuneful BONGA DRUM ‘rhythm’.
— Chudiyan Bazar Se
(Singer:- Mohammad Rafi – Asha Bhosle. Songwriter:- Anand Bakshi)
This film was produced by Director B. R. Chopra’s re-make of “Afsana”. This was the first and last time Laxmikant-Pyarelal worked with B R films. Film was ‘flop’, and the music was average except for two songs.
— O Mela ..Mahendra Kapoor
— Na Tu Jamee Ke Liye….Rafi (the most heard song of the film)
— Mariya My Sweet Heart ...Mahendra Kapoor- Asha Bhosle
To start with YASH RAJ Films first ever film, producer and director Yash Chopra wanted to utilize the ‘best’ artists available then. Rajesh Khanna was in supreme form in the early seventies, he along with Sharmila Tagore, Rakhi were the stars of the film. LAXMIKANT-PYARELAL, in top gear, from 1967, got the honor of the first music director for ”YASH RAJ FILMS”. An outstanding/evergreen/ever-fresh music of ”Daag” is still popular.
Sad song with magical lyrics words by Sahir Ludhiyanvi. In this “gazal” style song ‘interludes’ are beautifully decorated by VIOLINS in “symphony” style orchestra with beautiful overlapping sound effects.
— Hum Aur Tum
(Singer:- Kishore – Lata. Songwriter:- Sahir Ludhiyanvi)
This Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar romantic song is completely woven around the rhythm based ACOUSTIC GUITAR. Another beauty of this song is ‘interludes’. Both the ‘interludes’ have different tunes. First ‘interlude’ full of ‘aalaps’ by Kishore & Lata with glimpses of VIOLINS. In the second ‘interlude’ the VIOLINS are decorated in ‘Waltz’ style with beautiful ‘pauses”.
Laxmikant-Pyarelal :: Exquisite Music For SANJAY KHAN
Actor Producer Director Sanjay Khan and the Music Directors Laxmikant-Pyarelal started their respective film careers around the same time. Laxmikant-Pyarelal’s first film “Parasmani” was released in 1963 and Sanjay Khan made his debut, through a small roll, in the year 1964, through director Chetan Anand’s “Haqeeqat”.
In 1964, Sanjay Khan got an opportunity to work in Rajshri Pictures “DOSTI”, which has music by Laxmikant-Pyarelal. From here the association of Sanjay Khan and Laxmikant-Pyarelal started.
Sanjay Khan & Laxmikant-Pyarelal
In 1966 Sanjay Khan got an opportunity to work as a lead role, opposite vetern actress Mala Sinha in the musical hit film “DILLAGI”, which had music by Laxmikant-Pyarelal. The film has some beautiful songs.Usha Mangeshkar’s one song Ye Aaj Kal Ke Ladakerocks. She got name and fame through this song.
Total 15 films in which Laxmikant-Pyarelal has given the music for Sanjay Khan’s film.
1 Dosti 1964.
2 Dillagi 1966.
3 Milan Ki Raat 1967
4 Shart 1968
5 Intequam 1968
6 Madhavi 1969
7 Pushpanjali 1970
8 Woh Din Yaad Karo 1970
9 Haseenon Ka Devata 1971
10 Wafaa 1971
12 Duniya Ka Mela 1974
13 Nagin 1976
14 Mastan Dada 1977
15 Kala Dhanda Gore Log 1986 (Also as a Director)
Laxmikant-Pyarelal has utilized four singers for Sanjay Khan. Mohammad Rafi, Mukesh, Kishore Kumar and Talat Mehmood.
BINACA GEETMALA:-
Sanjay Khan’s eight songs, which has music by Laxmikant-Pyarelal, appeared in Binaca Geetmala Finals. Four songs from “Dosti” 1964 / 1965. One song each from “Dillagi” 1966, Ye Aaj Kal Ke Ladake at 14th position and that of “Milan Ki Raat”, 1967 Aankh Milaye Na Muskuraye Na at 21st position. 1st positions for the song from “Inteqam” 1969, Kaise Rahoo Chup ?. The positions for songs of “Dosti” and “Nagin” are not considered, as they were not filmed on Sanjay Khan.
However, many songs from “Shart”, “Madhavi”, “Pushpanjali”, “Woh Din Yaad Karo”, “Wafaa” etc did appear in weekly countdown but failed to reach ‘finals’.
Laxmikant-Pyarelal have given excellent music, according to change of time, throughout their stay of 35 years (1963 – 1998). The duo was in top form in the sixties, the initial stage. Whether it is B grade or C grade film, the music was excellent. Sanjay Khan was lucky to get some of the outstanding songs from Laxmi-Pyare.
1 DILLAGI 1966
Sanjay Khan – Mala Sinha starrer. If I am to ask the best musical film of Sanjay Khan with Laxmikant-Pyarelal, I will vote for “DILLAGI”. A Black & White Musical. All the songs are superb. Have taken 3 songs of the film for review.
Rock & Roll style rhythm. Excellent work on GUITAR (played by Gorakh Sharma), The super-hit song of the film.
–Tum Meri Zindagi Ho
(Singer:- Lata Mangeshkar – Mukesh. Songwriter:- Majrooh Sultanpuri)
Sweet and Melodious duet with lots of ‘rhythmic’ ‘pauses’. The rhythm sounds like “Qawwali” style. Typical duet matching to the other duets of sixties.
—Tauba Ye Nazare
(Singer:- Mohammad Rafi Songwriter:- Majrooh Sultanpuri)
“Prelude” of 44 seconds is very melodious, Rafi Saab’s humming, ACOUSTIC GUITAR and VIOLINS. Flawless ‘romantic’ rendering, beautiful BONGO DRUM fast rhythm. First and last ‘interludes’ are orchestrated with ACCORDION and GUITAR. Second “interlude” Rafi Saab has repeated the humming.
2 MILAN KI RAAT 1967
Sanjay Khan-Sharmila Taigore starer. This film was released in 1967 when Laxmikant-Pyarelal was right on TOP. The duo’s other musical hits like, ‘Farz’, ‘Shagird’, “Patthar Ke Sanam’, ‘Night In London’, ‘Anita’, ‘Jaal’ and ‘Milan’ were also released. “Milan Ki Raat” was an average hit with a couple of good songs.
— Babu Re Babu Is Zamane….Asha Bhosle
— Dum Tara Dum Tara ……Asha Bhosle (superb composition)
— Gham Ki Badli Chhai Judai Leke Aayee …..Mukesh
— Chinta Mat Kariyo….Lata
–Aankh Milaye Na Muskuraye Na
(Singer:- Mohammad Rafi Songwriter:- Anand Bakshi))
This song is effortlessly sung by Rafi saab in a “ROCK N ROLL” style, synchronizing his rendering with BONGO DRUMS ‘rhythm’. Another beauty of the song is that it is completely woven around the glimpses of GUITAR, in the ‘interludes’ and as ‘filler’ to create a romantic feel through the orchestra.
HIT song of 1967 at “right” moment…When late Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi Playing Test Cricket at Leeds (UK), “proposed” Sharmila Tagore, by scoring brilliant Century (148 runs).
3 INTEQAM 1968
R K Nayyar and actress Sadhana home production. Excellent music, blockbuster. Sanjay Khan – Sadhna
— Aa Jaan E Jaa…Lata
— Geet Tere Saaz Ka …..Lata
— Mehfil Soyee….Lata
–– Hum Tumhare Liye ….Lata-Rafi
— Jo Unki Tamanna Hai Barbad Ho Ja
(Singer:- Mohammad Rafi. Songwriter:- Rajendra Krishan)
A classic song. Just close your eyes and feel the fragrance and elegance of the eternal voice of Rafi Saab. Beautifully orchestrated on PIANO with mesmerizing DHOLAK rhythm. The “interludes” are designed by instrumenting solo VIOLIN, SYMPHONY style VIOLINS and PIANO. Sanjay Khan looks smart. Sadhana and Anju Mahendru look charming.
— Kaise Rahoon Chup
(Singer:- Lata Mangeshkar. Songwriter:- Rajendra Krishnan)
Another drunkard song from “Inteqam” with “HICCUPs” as well as “CHOO-CHOO” sound naughtily rendered by Lata Mangeshkar. Here we find Sadhana getting drunk and singing / dancing a song at a party, much to the embarrassment of Sanjay Khan and Rehman. This soundtrack is still memorable today. The “prelude” of 34 seconds starts with ACCORDION and SYMPHONY style VIOLINS. The “Interludes” are awesomely orchestrated with LATA ji’s ‘intoxicated’ “AALAPS”, synchronised with FLUTE, HICCUPS as well as VIOLINS in SYMPHONY style, ACOUSTIC GUITAR and ACCORDION . How beautifully the GUITAR auriculares are overlapped with Lata ji’s “CHOO-CHOO” sound (2.06 to 2.09) and also at (3.24 to 3.28). Glimpses of ACCORDION are mellifluously used as “filler”. Not to forget the different type of “rhythm” created on BONGO DRUMS. Not to forget the elegant Helen’s presence in the song.
It was a TOP hit song of the year 1969 in Binaca Geetmala Final.
4 MADHAVI 1969
Sanjay Khan with new actress then, Deepa. Extremely melodious songs.
— Sanz Savere ….a beauty from Lata
— Tum Mere Sapno Mein Aana Chhod Do
(Singers:- Asha Bhosle – Mohammad Rafi, Songwriter:- Anand Bakshi)
Mind-Boggling “prelude” of 65 seconds. First 28 seconds, SHEHNAI followed by wonderful AALAP by Ashaji, till 0.43, VIOLINS sounds mellifluous, Asha-Rafi rendering, with no orchestra, lastly strokes of VEENA for 5 seconds. Brilliant take off by Ashaji at 1.25. Ear-Pleasing DHOLAK ‘rhythm’. First interlude full of SITAR and VIOLINS. “Antara” has Rafi Saab’s AALAPS. Second ‘interlude’ VIOLINS and FLUTE
also awesome AALAPS by Asha ji. Third ‘interlude’ same. Ashaji rendering “AAHa”, आssहाss, mesmerizes the listeners.
5 PUSHPANJALI 1970
This film was Produced / Directed by Kishore Sahoo (Mr. Marco of Guide). NainaSahoo (daughter of Kishore Sahoo) was in the lead role, opposite Sanjay Khan. The film has excellent music.
Meaningful wording, excellent rendering, simple tune with lots of melody. A sad song. Interludes are melodiously orchestrated with FLUTE and ‘symphony’ VIOLINS.
6 WOH DIN YAAD KARO 1970
The film has excellent music. Sanjay Khan – Nanda starrer, movie.
— Yaar Jinhe Tum Bhool Gaye Ho…Lata
— Yaar Jinhe Tum Bhool Gaye Ho…Rafi
—Hoy Aasamaan Se Tod Ke Taare Zulf Men Teri …Kishore – Sulakshna Pandit
— Maine Chand Dekha Hai..Rafi
— Mohabbat Ki Kahaniyan …(Lata – Talat Mahmood)
(Singer:- Lata Mangeshkar – Talat Mahmood. Songwriter:- Anand Bakshi)
Very sweet song. Overlapping sound effect from Talat Mahmood * Lata Mangeshkar is ear-pleasing. Wonderfully orchestrated with ‘symphony’ VIOLINS, SANTOOR, GUITAR. Tuneful DHOLAK rhythm. This is for the first and last time legendary singer sung for Laxmikant-Pyarelal
7 WAFAA 1971
The average hit, Sanjay Khan – Rakhee
— Aankhon Se Yaar Pilaye…Kishore Kumar
— Aaloo Ki Bhaji Baingan Ka Bharta …Kishore-Lata
(Singers:- Lata Mangeshkar – Kishore Kumar. Songwriter:- Rajendra Krishnan)