The soundtrack of the recently released Dhurandhar 2, starring Ranveer Singh, has sparked considerable discussion, notably for its revival of qawwali compositions by the legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. This resurgence of Khan's iconic music, which also featured in a Hindi film just nine months prior, places the qawwali maestro back in the spotlight for contemporary audiences.
Qawwali's Cinematic Echo
Dhurandhar 2 revives at least two compositions linked to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan: 'Jaan Se Guzarte Hain' and 'Man Atkeya Beparwah De Naal'. The film's use of these tracks, particularly 'Jaan Se Guzarte Hain', described as a qawwali that weaves themes of love, betrayal, and pride, adds a distinct emotional and spiritual dimension to its narrative. The inclusion of such classic Sufi qawwalis, alongside other retro Bollywood hits and international tracks, is noted as a deliberate strategy to enhance key cinematic moments.
Read More: Mysuru-Belagavi Train Gets New LHB Coaches for Safer Travel
This move mirrors a similar instance from less than a year ago when another Hindi film, a Sunny Deol and Shah Rukh Khan starrer, prominently featured Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's haunting qawwali, 'Saanson Ki Mala'. This earlier appearance brought Khan's immortal compositions into a dramatic mainstream Bollywood setting, reintroducing his profound musical legacy to a wider audience.
Soundtrack's Broader Palette
Beyond the qawwali revival, the Dhurandhar 2 soundtrack is characterized by its eclectic mix. Composer Shashwat Sachdev is credited with revitalizing five classic retro songs spanning the 1970s, 80s, and 90s. The soundtrack also includes 'Aari Aari', an energetic track popularised by the Bombay Rockers in the early 2000s, which plays during a fast-paced action sequence featuring Ranveer Singh. A nod to the title track of Shah Rukh Khan's 1993 film 'Baazigar' has also been noted. This deliberate selection of music from different eras aims to capture the essence of various periods in Indian cinema.
Read More: Rajasthan Royals Manager Fined ₹1 Lakh for Phone Use in Dugout
Pre-Release Buzz and Financials
The film generated significant anticipation, with paid preview shows reportedly earning approximately Rs 44 crore. The official release was scheduled for March 18th, but the paid previews offered audiences an earlier experience of the film and its musical ensemble.
Background: The Enduring Influence of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, a towering figure in Sufi music and qawwali, possessed a voice and performance style that transcended geographical and cultural boundaries. His music is renowned for its spiritual depth, emotional intensity, and intricate melodic structures. Throughout the late 20th century and into the 21st, his qawwalis have been frequently sampled, reinterpreted, and incorporated into film soundtracks, both in Pakistan and India. Bollywood, in particular, has a long-standing history of drawing from Khan's vast repertoire, recognizing its powerful appeal and ability to elevate dramatic and emotional scenes. This recurring trend underscores the timeless and universal resonance of his artistic contributions, continuing to captivate new generations of listeners.
Read More: Sister Says Justice Served in Goudar Murder Case After 10 Years
