This article is in appreciation of Uden Jab Jab Zulfen Teri from Naya Daur. © mohdrafi.com

Today, we live in a world that has all the modern amenities that we could possibly have dreamt of – cars, microwaves, take out, home shopping networks – you name it and we have it. The world has becoming a global village today.

But there was a time when simplicity reigned in the villages – rural India. These villages were so beautiful and uncomplicated with the entire population living like one big family; the perfect ideation of community being demonstrated in a place we today look down upon as rural and dirty. But this rural, dirty world had something that we don’t have – companionship and peace of mind.

The movie Naya Daur, made in 1957 is one that tackles the above mentioned issue and even 50 years back, showed us what we still have not understood – that modernity is not god. An amazing, dramatic movie which is definitely a cult classic even today.

Talking about classics, there is one song in the movie – Uden Jab Jab Zulfen Teri that is known by today’s youth too. Imagine, in a world where songs are forgotten in a matter of days, this one has survived for 50 years. But only the best survive and this song gives out a magical quality which is unadulterated and pure – entrancing anyone who watches or listens to it.

The song is picturized on Dilip Kumar and Vaijantimala – both icons of the film world who look so clean and fresh in the song, it takes your breath away. This song shows a mild flirtation that is ensuing between the two actors, with the whole community joining in. The lyrics, created by Sahir Ludhianvi are perfect for the occasion – light hearted mischievous and compelling. Just listening to his words make you smile. The casual, teasing banter between the lead couple starts off like a raw mango – sour, but mouth watering and with each stanza it ripens; becoming sweeter and sweeter, filled with the juice of innocent love.

To go with the perfect lyrics, we have the perfect music provided by O.P. Nayyar – another stalwart of the music industry. Resplendent with simple but lively instruments, the song gives one the feel of actually being amongst the villagers gathered around the lead couple and experiencing the magic of music firsthand. It has the feel of a folk song – very individualistic, but giving one a sense of belongingness.

When you mention Vaijantimala, it is almost impossible to not mention dance. The choreography is simple and effective, but the way she dances makes you want to dance yourself. Appealing and elusive, she literally flows with the music; such is the grace with which she dances.

If there was anything that is not mentioned above, but is extremely essential to talk about – then it is the singers. With masters like Rafi Sahab and Asha Bhonsle – words will never be enough to do their talent justice. They have complimented the stars of the movie in the most perfect manner and there are no multiples in this song – only a singular force, which is pure talent that reigns.

So next time you want to take a walk down memory lane, its not too far. Just a click away. And if only for 5 minutes, you will be transported to a different time – one which is pure and enchanting.

This blog was published on Saturday, March 10th, 2007 at 8:00 am and Last modified on Friday, March 9th, 2007 at 10:33 pm and is filed under Video Songs. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.