If there is one actor currently in Bollywood who has been highly underrated inspite of a string of consistent performances, it has been Jimmy Shregill. Known for his ability to play sensitive characters, he has always won accolades, whether it has been 'Maachis', 'Haasil', 'Dil Hai Tumhara', 'Hum Tum' or most recently 'Silsiilay'. With 'Yahaan', which is fast making news, Jimmy gets a wonderful opportunity to leave a mark in this solo-hero project. Directed by debutant Shooji Sircar who has done numerous ad films and music videos in the past (notably being Shubha Mudgil's 'Mann Ke Manjire'), 'Yahaan' is yet another movie based on Kashmir after 'Sheen' last year. First look at the movie's promos and you are instantly reminded of similar shots in 'Mission Kashmir' - be it the 'shikaras', misty weather, freshness in the air and the subsequent blasts ! Another striking part about the movie is debut of Delhi girl Minissha who looks as innocent and lovely as it can. Music appears to be the most promising part of this album because of Shantanu Moitra's presence who recently did wonders in 'Parineeta'. Gulzar saab's mere mention for two of the tracks further enhances the expectations from this Red Ice films production.
1) Naam Adaa Likhna (Shreya Ghoshal, Shaan, Akshay)
Shreya Ghoshal continues to churn out melodies after melodies with every passing week. She does it again with 'Naam Adaa Likhna' that is undoubtedly one of the most soulful numbers composed this year. With emphasis solely on tune and vocals, Shantanu Moitra resists the temptation of using any unwanted instruments and settles for a limited orchestra. Result is a mesmerizing composition that brings a cooling effect right there in your living room. Shaan is also a part of this track but is surprisingly not given many lines to render. One doesn't mind that either because Shreya's sweet voice continues to enthrall. If one thought that this was the maximum that could be offered in 'Naam Adaa Likhna' then that would be wrong as a 'remix' of the same appears later on. One may wonder what's the remix doing for a simple song like this? Well, you have to hear it to believe it as it is an altogether new experiment that impresses the most. Add on vocals by Akshay and a retro feel given to the number simply give it a different feel.
2) Urzu Urzu Durkut (Shreya Ghoshal)
Remember 'Ring Posh Maal' from 'Mission Kashmir' that began with these Kashmiri lyrics. Ditto happens for 'Urzu Urzu Durkut' that is a sweet and innocent song about a lovely girl who is carefree about the things happening around her. The only thing that matters in her life is love and this is what she sings around with a group of young kids. Sweet vocals by Shreya again hold the centre stage and the music by Shantanu have the kind of appeal that would make the number listenable long after the movie is out of the theatres. This track deserves to be heard by lovers of good music.
3) Mele Chaliyan (Shreya Ghoshal, Akshay)
A traditional 'punjabi' celebration song, 'Mele Chaliyan' is set in a marriage scene with relatives and friends singing along with the girl-to-be-married. The soul of the song is kept intact and there are no attempts at making it unduly 'filmi' by adding in unwanted props. The number does well for its genre and would be liked with the film. For those who want a remix of everything in each and every dish they are served, there is a 'Mele Chaliyan' remix as well ! Purists may not want to admit it, but surprisingly this remix version too turns out to be entertaining. Though it may not be heard played around in downtown pubs, it would make its presence felt amongst the NRIs.
4) Ajmer Wale Khwaja (Nizami Bandhu)
After a lot of entertainment, it is the turn to get devotional with 'Ajmer Wale Khwaja' that is programmed