Remembering Reshma: The Voice That Bridged Two Nations with Lambi Judai

New Delhi, November 2 (Daily Kiran) : Music knows no borders, and some voices resonate deeply within the hearts of people. Reshma, the renowned Pakistani folk singer, was one such voice. Her soulful melodies carried the essence of earth, pain, and an irresistible charm. Although she spent much of her life in Pakistan, she garnered immense love in India as well. The evergreen song “Lambi Judai,” featured in the 1983 film “Hero,” became her hallmark. Even today, its haunting notes bring tears to listeners’ eyes.

Born on January 1, 1947, in the village of Loha near Bikaner, Rajasthan, Reshma’s family moved to Pakistan during the partition when she was just a month old. They settled in Karachi, where she began singing at a young age. Reshma would often perform Sufi songs at shrines, captivating audiences with her enchanting voice, despite never receiving formal training.

A pivotal moment in her life came when she was discovered by Pakistani radio and television producer Saleem Gilani at the age of 12. Recognizing her talent, he provided her with the opportunity to share her voice with the world. In 1968, she recorded “Lal Meri Pat Rakhiyo” for Radio Pakistan, which catapulted her to fame and established her as a Sufi singer.

Reshma’s career reached new heights in 1983 when director Subhash Ghai released “Hero.” He first heard her sing at a party hosted by Raj Kapoor in 1982 and was so impressed that he decided to feature her in his upcoming film.

Initially hesitant to record in a studio, Reshma preferred singing in open environments. However, Ghai reassured her that her comfort would be prioritized during the recording process. Eventually, she agreed to sing for “Hero.”

The recording session had its own intriguing story. Reshma requested minimal instrumentation from music directors Laxmikant-Pyarelal, opting to use a clay pot as her percussion instrument. While recording the song, she repeatedly mispronounced a line, singing “girai” instead of “banai.” Despite attempts to correct her, the music director Pyarelal left the studio in frustration. However, Laxmikant understood her emotions and suggested recording the song in her unique style. Reshma humbly explained that her lack of formal education led to her mistakes.

While Reshma achieved great success through her singing, her later years were marked by struggles. She battled throat cancer and faced financial difficulties. On November 3, 2013, Reshma passed away, leaving behind a legacy that continues to touch hearts across borders.