Mumbai, May 5: Naushad Ali, a legendary figure in the film music industry, is a name that fans will never forget. Today marks the anniversary of his passing. One of the most memorable and emotional moments in his life occurred on October 5, 1952, during the premiere of his film ‘Baiju Bawra’ at the Broadway Theatre in Dadar.
Standing on the balcony outside the hall, Naushad was seen weeping uncontrollably. When director Vijay Bhatt asked him, “Naushad Sahab, why are you crying?” Naushad wiped his tears and replied, “It took me 16 years to come from across the pavement to this theatre.” This response encapsulated both the pain of his struggles and the pride of his success.
Having risen from poverty, Naushad built an unparalleled legacy in the world of film music. Born on December 25, 1919, in Lucknow, his father, Wahid Ali, worked as a clerk in the courts. Naushad’s love for music blossomed as he listened to qawwalis at the Dewa Sharif shrine during his childhood. He masterfully blended classical, folk, and Western music in his film songs, which continue to resonate today.
‘Baiju Bawra’ is considered Naushad’s magnum opus. Songs like “Jhule Mein Pawan” and “Aaj Gawat Man Mein” from the film remain popular. He received a Filmfare Award for this work. Following this, he created enchanting music for films such as ‘Mother India’, ‘Mughal-e-Azam’, ‘Ganga Jamuna’, and ‘Meri Mehboob’. The song “Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya” from ‘Mughal-e-Azam’ is still regarded as one of the top romantic songs. Other notable works include “Matwala Jiya Dole” from ‘Mother India’ and “Aaj Ki Raat Mere Dil Ki Salami Le Le” from ‘Ram Aur Shyam’.
Naushad collaborated with iconic singers like Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammed Rafi, Mukesh, and Suraiya, providing them with beautiful songs. He also completed the unfinished music of Ghulam Mohammad for ‘Pakeezah’. Although he worked on fewer than a hundred films, many of them celebrated silver and golden jubilees. His music showcased the essence of folk, the depth of classical, and the brilliance of Western orchestration. Films like ‘Anmol Ghadi’, ‘Shah Jahan’, ‘Aan’, ‘Dastaan’, and ‘Saathi’ exemplify this blend.
For his contributions to music, Naushad was honored with the Padma Bhushan in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1981. A postage stamp was also issued in his name. He wrote poetry and published a book titled “Aathwan Sur”. Naushad Ali passed away on May 5, 2006, but his songs continue to echo in the hearts of many.
Leave a Comment