Wonder what hindi movie music would have been without Pancham. His contribution to the world of melody still continues to add colour to the lives of his innumerable fans. Can anyone ever gauge the depth of emotions in him which must have fired those countless pieces of immensely creative melodies he churned out. Hard to shortlist 20, but let me give it a try(in no particular order).
1. Bheeni Bheeni Bhor Aayi(Album - Dil Padosi hai): A sublime treat to begin your day with. Asha’s vocal dexterity amazes.
2. Katra katra Milti hai(Ijaazat): Asha on a twin track mingling with each other set against the beauteous Rekha fading in and out. Absolute magic.
3. Mera Kuchch Saaman(Ijaazat): Sheer poetry
4. Pyar Hua Chupke Se(1942- A love Story): The song has all the shades and hues corresponding to the beautiful hills in the background of it’s picturization. Kavita’s lifetime best effort for sure.
5. Pyar ke mod pe(Parinda): Asha and Suresh scale heights and dip to low notes alternately in this beautiful melody.
6. Sili Hawa Choo Gayi(Libaas): Cool, lilting and seamless.
7. Kuchh toh Log kahenge(AmarPrem): Great tune, controlled singing and wonderful lyrics make this one special.
8. Phirse Aaiyo Badra Bideshi(Namkeen): In the’Sili Hawa’ mould with a dreamy feel to it.
9. Tere Liye Palkon Ke Jhaalar(Harjaee): Romantic lesser heard gem sung to perfection by Lata.
Phir Wahi Raat hai(Ghar): Lie back on the terrace on a starfilled night and close your eyes to take in this one. Rhapsody
Mehbooba Mehbooba(Sholay): The singer in RD excels giving voice to the gypsy around the fire. Lust oozes out.
Roz Roz Aakhon Tale(Jeeva): Gulzar’s poetry, Asha and the criminally underrated Amit Kumar contribute to the haunting feel of this number.
Diye Jalte hai(Namak Haraam): Listen to this one with your best friend over a glass of bourbon to experience it.
Aanewala pal(GolMaal): Kishore’s well deserved Filmfare award came out of this exquisite piece.
Hothon pe beeti baat(Angoor): Lazy, seductive and silken on a sultry night. Sensuality personified.
Beeti na bitayi raina(Parichay): Brooding intensity with voices to match. This Bhupinder -Lata duet got Lata an award.
Yeh Vaada Raha(Yeh Vaada Raha): Mindblowing prelude with equally great music following.
Mere Saamne Wali Khidki(Padosan): Unusual and experimental(note the comb scraping sounds) and sung with gusto by the matchless Kishore.
Jaane Do Na(Saagar): Asha’s gossamer voice and Shailendra’s hunger make this one a sensual experience.
Dum Maro Dum(Hare Rama Hare Krishna): Husssshhhh!