Suniyo Ji Araj Mhari - Cover by Sarada



A classical song with a Rajasthani folk flavor, I believe "Suniyo ji" is one of Lata ji's finest songs ever.

The musical masterpiece film "Lekin" and its haunting music are indeed evergreen. Composed by the talented Pt. Hridayanath Mangeshkar, almost all songs are classic in this movie. It is no wonder he received the National Award for best music direction for the film. Apart from this song, the film includes songs like, "Kesariya Balma",  "Jhoote Naina Bole" and finally "Yaara Seeli Seeli" which brought Lata ji National Award.

Here is a link to "Yaara Seeli Seeli" covered by me before: http://sarada.bhagavatula.com/2012/11/yaara-seeli-seeli.html

The tune of "Suniyo Ji" is an adaptation of a composition in Raag Vihangini created by Pt. Mani Prasad of Kirana gharana. A raag with a folk flavor, Vihanginee is close to Bhupali and Deshkar. The first line of the classical bandish "Suniyo Ji Araj Mhaari" sung by Pt. Mani Prasad is retained in the film. The rest of the lyrics of the song are written by Gulzar in Rajasthani.

Here goes my humble attempt of the haunting song, Suniyo ji Araj Mhaari O. Suniyo ji and thanks a lot for listening.

Title: Suniyo Ji Araj Mhaari
Film: Lekin (Hindi)(1991)
Music: Pt.Hridayanath Mangeshkar
Original Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Gulzar
Sung By: Sarada




Sri Saradamba Namosthuthe



Almost a year ago, my dear friend and cosinger Malavi and I had a good opportunity of singing this beautiful song on Goddess Saraswathi in a book launch function. We loved the song so much, and ever since we wanted so much to record this together. This is our first recording collaboration and hope we can sing more. Hope you enjoy our humble effort.

This song is composed in Saraswati ragam. Video has visuals of Vaani, Veena Paani, the Goddess of Music, Arts, Knowledge, Learning and Wisdom. (image courtesy: web sources).

Yaa Kundendu-Tussaara-Haara-Dhavalaa Yaa Shubhra-Vastraavrtaa
Yaa Viinnaa-Vara-Danndda-Mannddita-Karaa Yaa Shveta-Padmaasanaa
Yaa Brahma-Acyuta-Shankara-Prabhrtibhir-Devaih Sadaa Puujitaa
Saa Maam Paatu Sarasvati Bhagavatii Nihshessa-Jaaddya-Apahaa

Meaning:
Salutations to Devi Saraswati ...
Who is pure white like jasmine, with the coolness of moon, brightness of snow and shine like the garland of pearls; and who is covered with pure white garments,
Whose hands are adorned with veena (a stringed musical instrument) and the boon-giving staff; and who is seated on pure white lotus,
Who is always adored by Lord Brahma, Lord Atchyuta (Lord Vishnu), Lord Shankara and other devas,
O Goddess Saraswati, please protect me and remove my ignorance completely.

Title: Sri Saradamba Namostute
Film: Sruthi Layalu (Telugu)(1991)
Music: K.V.Mahadevan
Original Singer: S.Janaki
Lyrics: Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry
Sung By: Malavi & Sarada



Nainon Mein Badra Chhaaye



Presenting a favorite Lata ji classic in Bhimpalasi. I hope you will enjoy my humble attempt of this classic. Thank you so much in advance!

 Lyrics in English:

nainon mein badraa chhaaye
bijli si chamke haaye
aise mein balam mohe
garwaa laga le..

madira mein doobi ankhiyaan
chanchal hain donon sakhiyaan
jhalthi rahengi thohe
palkon ki pyaari pankhiyaan
sharmaa ke dengi thohe
madiraa ke pyaale…

prem deewani hoon main
sapnon ki rani hoon main
pichhle janam se theri
prem kahani hoon main
aa is janam mein bhee tho
apna banaa le..

Title: Nainon Mein Badra Chhaye
Film: Mera Saaya (Hindi)(1966)
Music: Madan Mohan
Original Singer: Lata Mangeshkar
Lyrics: Raja Mehndi Ali Khan
Sung By: Sarada