Five Rare Pancham Gems

Many people have many opinions about RD Burman. I'm of the opinion that he is a fantastic example of how one can be good at both classical as well as western music, and how one does not need to choose. It is the same person who has created "Beeti Naa Bitayi Raina" and "Doston Se Pyaar Kiya - Shaan Se". In fact he was so adept at both, that he could use both classical and western music in the same song - giving two distinct flavors to the song. A wonderful example of this is the song "Meri Nazar Hai Tujh Pe" from the movie 'The Burning Train'. Anyways, today, my intention is to share with you five rare songs of RD Burman - such songs as you may have heard, but may have forgotten. If I am able to rekindle the love that you have always had for this great composer by making you remember (and perhaps hum) these songs, I shall consider my article successful.

1.   O Mehki Mehki Thandi Hawa (Bombay To Goa)

   I am sorry to have begun with a composition which was not really his own [Listen to "Help Me Rhonda" by The Beach Boys to know what I mean]. But hey, we all liked this song when we first heard it, didn't we? Who cares about The Beach Boys? Long live RD!

2.   Shikwa Koi Tumse (Dhan Daulat)

   This song is a recreation from one of RD's own Bengali compositions. The original one was used in a Bengali movie titled "Troyee" [meaning - The Trio]. I like the use of the accordion, saxophone and violins in this song.

3.   Dil Kya Hai, Ek Sheesha Hai (Lava)

   Music lovers, particularly serious Bollywood music lovers, are able to name the music director of a song, even if they have never heard that song before. Music directors have certain - how shall I say - 'signatures'. RD had his own. One of his several signatures has been used in this song, starting at 0:20.

4.   Nadiya Kinare Pe (Barsaat Ki Ek Raat)

   Shakti Samanta made a Bengali movie named 'Anusandhan' with Amitabh Bacchan (perhaps his only Bengali movie), Rakhee and Amjad Khan. The movie became such a big hit, that he decided to make it in Hindi as well, shot-for-shot. The result was 'Barsaat Ki Ek Raat'. Somehow, this one didn't click. The songs of the original one are beautiful and all superhits. When these songs were translated into Hindi, they lost their charm. For instance, this song was translated from a Bengali one 'Otho Otho Surjai Re', meaning 'Rise, oh sparkling sun'. All said and done, the music is vintage RD.

5.   Kaun Kisiko Baandh Saka? (Kaalia)

   This jailbreak song, which captures the essence of Bollywood so well, is rarely heard, but has such an enchanting theme, that you feel like you are right there in the scene. A great number by Mohd. Rafi and hats off to RD.

   RD - the versatile genius could create music of all kinds, and what he has left us with is a treasure trove of wonderful melodies. It is said that music can dissolve all your sorrows. While that is true, I sometimes feel sad when I hear an RD song, thinking what a great loss his absence is to the world of entertainment. But I think you'll agree with me when I say this - as long as there is a Pancham, we will always remember Pancham.