Rang De Basanti The Soundtrack That Echoed The Voice Of A Generation
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From reinventing Bollywood to representing India on a global stage, AR Rahman has done it all. The 'Mozart of Madras' has created some of the most timeless melodies in the Indian film industry.
Having begun his career in the Tamil film industry, he rapidly ascended to national fame. While Rahman has made music for several films, there is a particular soundtrack that left a tremendous impact on the Indian youth.
The year was 2005. Rahman was ready to make music for the upcoming film Rang De Basanti, along with lyricist Prasoon Joshi. It was an opportunity once again for ARR to experiment with newer sounds.
Having begun his career in the Tamil film industry, he rapidly ascended to national fame. While Rahman has made music for several films, there is a particular soundtrack that left a tremendous impact on the Indian youth.
The year was 2005. Rahman was ready to make music for the upcoming film Rang De Basanti, along with lyricist Prasoon Joshi. It was an opportunity once again for ARR to experiment with newer sounds.
It was a move away from patriotic film soundtracks like "The Legend of Bhagat Singh" (2002) and "Mangal Pandey: The Rising" (2005).
His exploration produced a soundtrack like no other; blending elements of Sikh prayers, Bhangra music, as well as genres like rock, rap, and synth-pop to portray the modern lives of the film's young protagonists.
Released in 2006, Rang De Basanti was a massive success. "Masti ki Pathshala", "Khalbali", and the iconic title track "Rang de Basanti" became instant hits. They were relatable and energetic.
At the same time, there were touching ballads like "Luka Chuppi" and "Khoon Chala" and "Tu Bin Bataye".
When musical stalwart Lata Mangeshkar recorded 'Luka Chuppi', director Mehra recalled being moved to tears by her voice.
The track, along with "Khalbali" received Academy Award nominations for the Best Original Song.
Rang De Basanti had a massive impact on youth culture. It made young people across India more socially conscious. They began donating to NGOs and charities, in a bid to become more responsible citizens.
Many youth saw themselves in the movie's lead characters and became activists for social justice. Some of their protests proved effective. This caused the media to label these movements for social change as the 'RDB effect'.
Similarly, a day after the 26/11 attack, a crowd performed a flash mob to the title track, Rang De Basanti. It is a rare work of art that has influenced music and culture, and also spurred a social revolution.
Read more: What Makes Hum Kissi Se Kum Nahin: A Super-Trouper Soundtrack
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