The legendary pop icon, Daler Mehndi, renowned for his powerful voice and electrifying stage presence, is set to release his latest single, “Ankhiyan Te Ja Ladiyan.” Mehndi, known for bridging the rich classical cultural past with today’s generation, collaborates with the doyens of Qawwali singers – Ustad Sher Ali, Ustad Mehr Ali, and the young virtuoso Ejaz Sher Ali. This extraordinary track promises to deliver a foot-tapping, rustic, and robust Bhangra Dhamaal infused with Balochi nuances and classical Dhamaal with Siraiki singing.
“Ankhiyan Te Ja Ladiyan” is composed by Daler Mehndi himself, whose creative genius breathes life into the traditional lyrics. The song is a testament to Mehndi’s vision of blending diverse musical styles and traditions to create something truly extraordinary. The enchanting melody is brought to life by the legendary voices of Mehndi, Sher Ali, Mehr Ali Khan, and Ejaz Sher Ali.
The video’s captivating concept, impeccable styling, and innovative ideation are the brainchildren of Taran Mehndi, whose artistic vision shines through every frame. Under the masterful direction of Taran Mehndi and Sumit Bhardwaj, the accompanying video transforms this auditory delight into a visual feast, making “Ankhiyan Te Ja Ladiyan” a true masterpiece of modern musical artistry. Choreographed by 23-year-old Kunwar Singh of Folking Desi, the video features robust Bhangra performances that create an audio-visual spectacle, captivating and enthralling the audience.
Reflecting on the song, Daler Mehndi shares, “I have a very strong urge to leave behind a legacy of great words and beautiful music that brings forth the gaiki of the elders. One such duo that impacted me as a young music listener and learner were the Qawwali duo Sher Ali Khan and Mehr Ali Khan. When I became Daler Mehndi, my musical career gave me access to the legends I grew up listening to, and those I once yearned to hear became friends. It had been my desire to record them. When I composed ‘Ankhiyan Te Ja Ladiyan,’ I called and asked if they would like to sing. Much to my relief and pleasure, they readily agreed, and the song came to life. I owe a big thanks to technology, sitting here, having them send their vocals and then putting it all together. It was seeing the dream come to life. My daughter is 10, and it is my personal agenda to give her and her generation a flavor of the yesteryears’ richness served in a format they will enjoy. Bhangra takes center stage in this video of the song that narrates the pangs of the lovelorn. It’s a celebration where the yearning of a lover, the separation, and the cupid’s strike are danced to with all heart. The Dhamal features young, robust Delhi-based Bhangra crew Folking Desi, infusing energy with the truest form of Bhangra. With a prayer and lots of foot-tapping beats, I am pleased to present ‘Ankhiyan Te Ja Ladiyan,’ a Dhamal of love.”
Taran Mehndi, the director of the song, adds, “Directing a luminary like Daler Ji is a privilege that transcends mere words. His enduring stardom is a rare phenomenon in the music world, and working with him has been nothing short of extraordinary. From the very first note of ‘Ankhiyan Te Ja Ladiyan,’ I envisioned an artistic narrative that had to be true to the sound he had created. It has the elders Sher Ali and Mehr Ali Sahab’s classical gaiki complimenting Daler Ji’s brilliant composition. Lyrically, the song is a sad song, a yearning of a beloved; however, the rhythm is highly compelling. The choreographers literally mapped the visions in my brain. I am proud and pleased to showcase a Balochi Bhangra Dhamal in its purest form. Sumit Bhardwaj, my co-director, assisted and supported my ideas and vision. I’m elated that our collective efforts materialized precisely as I had dreamed. The alignment of everyone’s creative energies was a triumph in itself.”
“Raag Bhairavi, classical Dhamaal, Siraiki gaiki – visually, the song had to weave a narrative that complements the rich heritage flavor of the elders, the present with Daler Ji being the bridge, and the future with the young girls and boys dancing with all heart – the dance of a happy soul – the Bhangra. Again, Daler Ji took us by surprise on the sets by giving his fans a simple and catchy hook step.”
“Raag Bhairavi, classical Dhamaal, Siraiki gaiki – visually, the song had to weave a narrative that complements the rich heritage flavor of the elders, the present with Daler Ji being the bridge, and the future with the young girls and boys dancing with all heart – the dance of a happy soul – the Bhangra. Again, Daler Ji took us by surprise on the sets by giving his fans a simple and catchy hook step.”
Watch the song here: Ankhiyan Te Ja Ladiyan
