Staying alive in Bollywood

"Yuvvraaj" - Movie Reviews

2008-11-21T18:33:00.003+05:30

HE'S the last of the showmen left, apart from Yash Chopra, who seems to have taken a break from direction. Yes, not so long ago, Subhash Ghai was a synonym for Bollywood's opulent extravaganzas of the '80s-'90s, when cinema was still a larger-than-life narrative about good versus evil. Remember Karz , the original, Karma , Ram Lakhan , Khalnayak , Taal ...an era of cinema where the formula not only held sway, but was a grand success too. The onslaught of new storytellers and new styles may have pushed the old guard into the background, but it failed to dim the passion. Today, after a lean phase, the veteran filmmaker returns with Yuvvraaj , a grandiose film that has lots to boast about, even though it falters here and there in terms of script and narrative. Topping the list of positives is AR Rahman's scintillating music score which brings to life Gulzar's poetry with sublime fluidity. And since the film is essentially set against a musical backdrop, where Katrina and Salman are members of an Austrain orchestra, Rahman's ode to Beethoven seems in perfect sync with the script. Secondly, it's the aesthetics of the film which leaves a lasting impression. Mostly shot in Prague and Austria, the film is picture-postcard perfect, with cinematographer Kabir Lal capturing the exotic locales in splendid hues. And finally, the film scores with its performances, especially by Salman Khan who essentially plays himself — a super brat — with perfect elan. He is the prodigal son, who was thrown out of the family mansion by his father because of his sibling rivalry with his mentally challenged elder brother, Anil Kapoor. As a choir boy in Prague, he finds a soulmate in cellist Katrina Kaif, but cannot marry her since her dad (billionaire Boman Irani) doesn't approve of his impoverished situation. Hoping to change his fortunes after the death of his dad, he rushes home to inherit the family millions, only to realise there's nothing left for him and his younger, equally roguish brother, Zayed Khan. Nerd Anil has been declared the sole heir, with sundry greedy relatives eyeing the moolah around him. Time for the dysfunctional family to outwit each other and split or to outsmart the outsiders and come together, once again.... Essentially a tale of three brothers, who rediscover their ties after hating each other for years, Yuvvraaj does have some fine moments of bonding between Salman and Anil. Zayed, however fails to connect and remains the outsider in this Trimurti, though surprisingly, Katrina does manage to hold her own in this bhai-bhai business. We do wish the duo (Katrina-Salman) had more time to set the screen on fire with their crackling chemistry, especially since all that we manage to get is a tantalising teaser with Katrina handcuffing a bare-chested Salman with her silken scarf. Kendi pump up the jam, janah! On the flip side, the story hangs loosely in the middle and winds up in a mothballed climax, where old-fashioned baddies try to bump off the goofy Anil Kapoor who does an Eeshwar all over again. But Salman Khan and AR Rahman more than make up for the lapses, carrying you off on a sonata and a song. Watch Yuvvraaj for an in-fashion retro feel.
Says Mr. Nikhat Kazmi
Times Of India

Every step you take, every move you make... we'll be watchin' you. Have altered the lines of a famous song. For, this one's applicable for Subhash Ghai, a proficient storyteller, one of the most successful stories from this side of the Atlantic. Irrespective of how his films are received at the ticket window, Ghai's movies are always under scrutiny. You watch every film with a magnifying glass
YUVVRAAJ is no exception!
Ghai's forte has been drama. Recall the dramatic moments in KARZ, VIDHAATA, MERI JUNG, RAM LAKHAN, KARMA, SAUDAGAR. He re-visits the genre with YUVVRAAJ. Besides, YUVVRAAJ is his most opulent work thus far. It has a sweeping effect, the film makes a stunning visual statement
The story [Ghai] mirrors a universal truth. Greed leads to disputes and in turn, ruins all relationships. A fact you've heard or witnessed time and again in real life. While the story is captivating, the screenplay doesn't really do justice to the thought. Also, Rahman's music acts as a soothing balm, but the problem is, it takes time to grow on the listener. And that could be a deterrent.
Yet, in all fairness, YUVVRAAJ is a notch above the commonplace. If you intend spending your hard-earned money on it or devoting 3 hours of your precious time on Ghai's new outing, chances are you won't regret it.
Deven Yuvvraaj [Salman Khan] is a chorus singer, in love with Anushka [Katrina Kaif]. Her father Dr. Banton [Boman Irani], however, is dead against this relationship. Things take a turn when Deven's father passes away and he returns to London to stake claim on his father's wealth. He meets his two estranged brothers Gyanesh Yuvvraaj [Anil Kapoor] and Danny Yuvvraaj [Zayed Khan] after almost twelve years. But things aren't hunky-dory between them...Ghai has an eye for visuals and every frame of YUVVRAAJ seems like a painting on celluloid. Unmistakably, that's the first thing you notice as YUVVRAAJ unfolds.
It takes time to absorb YUVVRAAJ. In fact, Ghai doesn't open all his cards at the very outset. It's only when the father [Javed Shaikh] passes away and Mithun Chakraborty, the Executor of the Will, enters the scene that the wheels start moving.
The film gathers momentum after the interval. If the first hour has a few by-now-famous Ghai scenes, the second hour sees Ghai in form, with a number of sequences staying in your memory. The penultimate 20-25 minutes are the best. Watch Anil go through the handycam with disbelief, watch Anil and Salman's act during the concert, watch Salman's emotional outburst towards the end... also the titles [brings back memories of OM SHANTI OM].
Ghai handles the dramatic scenes with flourish. Rahman's music is soothing, but you expect more because Ghai's movies are embellished with lilting music that you recall even after 2 or 3 decades. Kabir Lal captures the striking beauty of Europe well. The output is superb. The sets [Omung Kumar] are truly majestic.
YUVVRAAJ belongs to Anil Kapoor, who towers above the entire cast and delivers a natural, believable performance. Salman's looks are inconsistent. At times the boyish look is intact, at times he looks bloated. Ditto for his hairstyle. His performance, however, is better, mainly towards the finale. Zayed tries hard and convinces in a few scenes. Mithun Chakraborty is fantastic in a brief role.
Katrina looks angelic. Despite the focus being on the three men, she registers an impact. Boman Irani is credible, especially in the scene when he steps out of the Operation Theatre towards the end. Aushima Sawhney is confident. Anjan Srivastava and the pack of villains/vamps look straight out of RAM LAKHAN and TAAL.
On the whole, YUVVRAAJ is interesting, with the penultimate 20/25 minutes taking the film to an all-time high. At the box-office, the package [a mammoth cast, Subhash Ghai, A.R. Rahman, the stunning locales of Europe] should ensure a hearty opening and with no major opposition in the forthcoming week, it should keep its investors smiling.
Says Taran Adarsh -
Film Critic

Yuvvraaj Synopsis

2008-11-19T16:57:00.004+05:30

SUBHASH GHAI’S

‘Y U V V R A A J‘

A Child wants love, a man wants money...... Eventually …one yearns love!!!

Subhash Ghai tells a unique tale spin of our times narrated through music

‘Yuvvraaj’ a story of the attitudes of youngsters today as they prioritize money and life style over value of relationships.

set in Europe in modern times, it’s about the three sons of a billionaire father brought up in three different environments, their individual personalities, their passion and aggression to fulfill their aspirations.

the three sons are played by Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor and Zayed Khan.

Deven Yuvraaj [Salman Khan] needs money to get his billionaire beloved - a beauty queen, played by Katrina Kaif.

Gyanesh [Anil Kapoor] is yet to realize the colour of money but gets caught in the web of money.

Danny [Zayed Khan] breaths nothing but money, the only

power he knows.

Anushka [Katrina Kaif] has passion for music and obsession for an earthy man Deven and plays the catalyst through her music in this family drama in which you laugh, cry, sing and dance.

how they depart and how they meet … and how they play against each other is the most exciting plot presented in this gigantic motion picture.

a musical extravaganza

by Subhash Ghai

in his inimitable style

Music binds love

Subhash Ghai’s ‘Yuvvraaj’

Cast

Anil Kapoor , Salman Khan , Katrina Kaif , Zayed Khan ,Aushima Sawhney , Amie Maghera , Javed Sheikh ,Boman Irani

SUPPORTED BY – Anjjaan Shrivastav, Shenaz Anand, Sulbha Arya, Aparna Kumar

Credit; Order Wise

Banner: Mukta Mainstream Films

A Film By: Subhash Ghai

Produced And Directed By: Subhash Ghai

Music: A R Rahman

Lyrics: Gulzar

Screenplay Dialogue: Subhash Ghai / Sachin Bhomik / Kamlesh Pandey

Cinematograper: Kabir Lal

Art Director: Omung Kumar

Editor:

Choreography: Chinni and Rekha Prakash / Shaimak Davar / Ahmed Khan

Sound Designer: Rakesh Ranjan

Background Music: A R Rahman

Executive Producer: Shamira Karim

A Mukta Arts Presentation

SG / Director’s Notes On Yuvvraaj Music Release

2008-11-19T14:56:00.012+05:30

If it is true that since thousand years the soul of music had always affected the body and souls of human lives and nature

…then I would like to say that my film ‘Yuvvraaj’ in its own way speaks. In spite of the fact that ‘Yuvvraaj‘ is a complete mainstream entertainer it is an interesting plot of a family drama.

Its music plays an important part in bringing the restless ,greedy , aggressive , obsessive ,materialistic, corny characters of my story to a point of realization where they understand the meaning of their relationship not by war but through the music of strings led by a king instrument ‘ cello’ which speaks a deep human voice to call all relationships to orchestrate their lives in harmony to love , care and share .

I must thank A R Rahman for bearing all my uncanny demands to create this kind of music which comes from the heart whether its peace, notoriety, romance or dance.

To sum up all, this album does bring an interior note of smile in side all of us and reflects the real chaotic world.

Hope I justify this larger than life sound into my visuals which will speak their own interesting story of an Indian family settled in Europe listening to the symphonic notes in the air.

=========================================================

Though Yuvvraaj is an entertainer than a preacher but in this music album composed by ace music director A R Rahman and poetical words with depth of Gulzar sahib there is an effort to express our Indian classical music weaving into western orchestra to create universal soul music.

Anushka[ katrina kaif] plays a cello player , deven [ salman khan] echoes his voice to express his passion and aggression in romance and love where as anil kapoor comes with an indian classical voice of peace and love.

Lyrics of song "Mastam Mastam"

2008-11-15T22:25:00.012+05:30

Mast mast dar mastam...

dar rind vind dar mastam...

aast, hast gar mastam...gar mastam

(Repeat 2)

Aaye ji baanke aaye, hastam mastam

O danke bajate aaye ...rustam shustam

Bheje mein bhochal hain

Pairon mein paatal hain

Dil ka ahwal leke aaye

Billi ki khaal hain

Chitey ki chaal hain

Dham dham dhamaal leke aaye

O Rustam aaya- O chustam aaya

Sou surangon se mein

Chup chup ke yun lene aaya

Mast mast dar mastam...

Dar rind vind dar mastam...

Aast hast gar mastam...gar mastam

Badega, mamla badega

Kachahari lagegi

Mukadma chalega

Shani jab talega

Toh dushman jalega

Kabhi toh dur hogi duriyan dil ki

Mohabbat toh- jahan dhua wooan uuthe

Wahi hoti hain

Jahan - aagan lagan wagan lage

Wahin hoti hain...

Mast mast dar mastam...

Dar rind vind dar mastam...

Aast, hast gar mastam...gar mastam

Barson yeh kahani.

Likh ke jubani

Kahega Zamana

Sunega Zamana

Aaye ji baanke aaye

Hanstam mastam

Danke bajate aaye

rushtam shustam

Koi toh raaj hain

wohh sunte ho naraaj hain

unko awaaj dene aaye

Duniya mein naam hain

Par logon mein badnaam hain

Shadi ka paigam leke aaya

Aayeji baanke aaye hanstam mastam

Danke bajate aaye Rushtam sushtam

(Repeat 2)

Dur dur rushtam shustam

Ruftam ruftam… dur…

Badega mamla badega

Kachahari lagegi mukadma chalega

Shani jab talega

Toh dushman jalega

Kabhi to dur hogi duriyan dil ki

Mohabbat tohh- jahan dhua wooan uuthe

Wahi hoti hain

jahan - agan lagan wagan lage

Wahin hoti hain.

Ayeji baanke aaye hanstam mastam

Danke bajate aaye Rushtam sushtam

Bheje main bhochal hain

Pairon main pataal hain

Dil ka ahwal leke aaye

Billi ki khal hain

Chitey ki chal hain

Dham dham dhamaal leke aaye

Yuvvraaj - CHARACTER SKETCHES

2008-11-12T11:30:00.003+05:30

Deven Yuvvraaj (Salman Khan) is an easy cool guy for whom life begins with himself and ends with his love Anushka. A quarrel with his father was reason enough for him to leave home and live as a struggling singer. Devoid of family values he is forced to journey through the circle of love for the sake of money to complete his love story. And as he journeys he softens into a likeable and lovable character.

Gyanesh Yuvvraaj (Anil Kapoor)is the centerpiece of all action. An autistic savant, he is completely removed from the idea of money and therefore his enormous inheritance has no impact on him. All he wants is love. He withers without it. By some stroke of destiny he has a genius disorder. Since childhood he was brilliant in all aspects of music. He enters Deven’s world of music and effortlessly becomes the superstar that Deven dreamt of being.

Danish Yuvvraaj (Zayed Khan) is the real prince who lived life super-large. A passion for flying kept him floating on an air-cushion filled with his father’s money. A playboy and a brat he was sure that the inheritance would be his. Unable to deal with the loss of his playground (as casinos and clubs threw him out) he strikes at Gyanesh in an attempt to get back what he thought was rightfully his.

Anushka (Katrina Kaif) is a beautiful, angelic girl passionately in love with her violin and Deven. A girl of very high values she refuses to marry Deven unless her father accepts him willingly.

Yuvvraaj trailer

2008-11-10T11:45:00.004+05:30

Lyrics of song "Shano Shano"

2008-11-08T20:27:00.005+05:30

Everybody in the party are you ready
Say EX- Ex Ex
Go with the flow…
Say PLO- O…
Ready for D- Put the D to the E
E E…
EXPLODE- With me
EXPLODE….

Yeah…I know you want me
Get on the floor…
I am looking for that special girl
Get on the floor
Gotta gotta get on the floor
O Yea…
Get on the floor
Gotta Gotta get on the floor
Get on the floor

Shano shano get on the floor
Shano shano
Shano shano lets start the show
Shano shano
Shanoooo shano shano
Shanoooo shano shano
Shano shano get on the floor
Shano shano

Atke atke kitne latke deke
Bulaye tu
Bachpan bachpan keha ke pachpan
Chand churaye tu
Ander ander beech samunder
Dubki khaye tu

Shano shano get on the floor
Shano shano
Shanoooo shano shano
Shanoooo shano shano
Shano shano get on the floor
Shano shano

Roz Yehin par aana
Jab suraj wapas jaye
Aadha din hain aadha
Aadhe raat ke chahye
Roz yehin se jaana
Jab suraj sham nahaye
Doob raha ho aadha
Pani mein gaute khaye

Pakka shikari hain
Pakka shikari
Aari chalata hain
Aari aari aari

Tune chalaye hain
Barche hazaron
Aapni toh pehli hain
Baari baari baari

Pyala pyala
Maika pyala

Shano Shano get on the floor
Shano shano
Shanoooo shano shano
Shanoooo shano shano
Shano shano get on the floor
Shano shano

Aag se tarasha
Ek gulaab dekha
Aisa wohh shabab dekha

Tez hawa se uttro
Toh paon pe chalna hoga
Dhoop mein pan jalenge
Toh chaon mein chalna hoga

Hosh ka paani chirko
Madhhosi ki aankhon par
Aapno se mat uljho
Tum gairon ki baton par

Udke tohh dekho
Unchi udari
Mit jayegi hasrat
Saari saari saari

Zindagi koi jua
Nehin hain
Jisne lagaai baazi
Haari haari haari

Pyala pyala
Maika pyala

Shano shano get on the floor
Shano shano
Shano shano lets start the show
Shano shano

Shanoooo shano shano
Shanoooo shano shano

Lyrics of song "Tu Muskura"

2008-11-08T18:18:00.004+05:30

Tu muskura jahaan bhi hain tu muskura
Tu dhoop ki tarah badan ko choo zara

Sharir si ye muskurahatein teri
Badan main sunti hoon main aahatein teri

Labon se aake choo de aapne lab zara
Tu muskara jahaan bhi hain tu muskara

Sharir si yeh muskurahatein teri
Badan main sunti hoon main aahatein teri

Aisa hota hain khayalon mein aksar
Tujh ko sochoon toh mahak jaati hoon

Meri rooh mein basi hain teri khusboo
Tujh ko choo loon toh bahak jaati hoon

Teri aankhon main koi toh jaadu hain
Tu muskara jahaan bhi hain tu muskara

Tu Muskara, jahaan bhi hain tu muskura
Tu dhoop ki tarah badan ko choo zara

Sharir si yeh muskurahatein teri
Badan main sunti hoon main aahatein teri

Tez chalti hain hawaaon ki saasen
Mujh ko baahon main lapet ke chupale

Teri aankhon ki hasin Loriyon main
Main badan ko bichaoon, tu sulale

Teri aankhon main koi toh nasha hain
Tu Muskara, jahaan bhi hain tu muskura

Tu muskura jahaan bhi hain tu muskura
Tu dhoop ki tarah badan ko choo zara

Sharir si ye muskurahatein teri
Badan main sunti hoon main aahatein teri

Lyrics of Song "Tu Hi To Meri Dost Hai"

2008-11-08T17:00:00.007+05:30

Aaja main hawaon mein bithake le chalun

Tu hi toh mera dost hain

Aaja main khalaon mein uthake le chaloon

Tu hi toh mera dost hain

Awaaz ka dariya hoon

Behta hoon main nili raaton mein

Main jaagta rehta hoon

Neendh bhari jheel si aankhon mein

Awaaz hoon main

Aaja main hawaon pe bithake le chaloon

Tu hi toh… tu hi toh meri dost hain

Aaja main khalaon mein uthake le chaloon

Tu hi toh meri dost hain

Raat mein chandni kabhie

Aisi gungunati hain

Sunn zara lagta hain tumse

Awaaz milati hain

Main khayalon ki mehek hoon

Gungunati hain saaz par

Ho sake toh milale

Awaaz tu mere saaz par

Aaja main hawaon pe bithake le chaloon

Tu hi toh meri dost hain

Aaja main khalaon main uthak le chaloon

Tu hi toh meri dost hain

Awaaz ka dariya hoon

Behta hoon main nili raaton mein

Main jaagta rehta hoon

Neendh bhari jheel si aankhon mein

Awaaz hoon main…

O kabhi dekha hain saahil

Jahaan sham utarti hain

Kkehte hain samunder se

Ek pari gujarti hain

Wohh raat ki rani hain

Sargam par chalti hain

Aja main hawaon pe bithake le chaloon

Tu hi toh…tu hi toh mera dost hain

Aaja main khalaon mein uthake le chaloon

Tu hi toh mera dost hain

Awaaz ka dariya hoon

Behti hoon mein nili raaton mein

Main jagti rehti hoon

Neendh bhari jheel si aankhon mein

Awaaz hoon main

(Repeat)

Yuvvraaj - Music Review

2008-11-02T16:39:00.001+05:30

Salman Khan - “When Rahman and Subhashji come together, they give you the best music. The music of Yuvvraaj is outstanding. Its very soulful, peaceful and carries a sweetness of its own with powerful lyrical value.”
Subhash Ghai’s much anticipated Yuvvraaj , a musical about family bonds, love and the arrogance and overconfidence of contemporary youth, in particular three siblings (Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor and Zayed Khan) and a lead cellist (Katrina Kaif). So just as with Taal, Rahman’s music is expected to feature in a big way, says the director:
Subhash Ghai- “Like Taal, Yuvvraaj is based on music. I've told Rahman, Yuvvraaj belongs to two people, Rahman and Subhash Ghai, in that order. All the main characters are musicians in Yuvvraaj."

A journey starting with Symphony No.5 (Beethoven) is setting some precedence for the OST. The first track Main Hoon Yuvvraaj does exactly that (performed by Chennai String Orchestra) and provides a short introduction to the movie with vocals by none other than Salman Khan himself. In this he reveals a number of interesting cues but one thing is for sure….he is a 'bad guy' and he is Yuvvraaj out to prove he can be a superstar with his singing!
And his first attempt at stardom comes immediately with the next track, the quite wonderfully composed Tu Meri Dost Hain. The music, starting on a simple note, is eerily soft yet ever so alluring eventually developing into a blissful tune that will undoubtedly mesmerize you upon repeated listening. But why are you surprised? These are the hallmarks of classic Rahman! In particular the melodious cello play just takes the track to another level and the accompanying symphony effects are fabulous as are the dovetailing beats…everything links together so harmoniously, I am simply at a loss for words to describe the beauty of this composition. Special mention also to Gulzar saab for his gifted lyrics that add so much meaning to the song. Furthermore it appears that Rahman’s singing dynasty has added another sensation in the form of Benny Dayal (who also sang in Jaane Tu..) who sings in stunning fashion alongside the maestro himself. But it’s Shreya Ghoshal’s entry midway through that is a masterstroke and just the icing on the cake. Honestly, if it wasn’t for Rahman’s earlier release this year from Jodhaa Akbar i.e. the amazing Khwaja Mere Khwaja, this would be my pick for the most outstanding track of 2008. Genius!
A.R.Rahman- “Subhash Ghai is very different from other directors. He has really worked hard on the visuals. They look really colorful and really romantic. It’s almost treated in a musical way where it’s more realistic than just background music.”

Ok it’s now time for some party as the spotlight moves onto Zayed Khan and so beckons the next track Shano Shano. Let’s be honest from the outset, this is the weakest track of Yuvvraaj by some distance. However it’s not a total disaster when you take it in the context of the movie. Yes the music sounds like something out of a 1980s disco floor but if Zayed wants to groove to some chaotic music, as a composer, that is what you have to deliver! At the very least Rahman provides variety with some interesting musical instruments (it’s not all synth) and the use of multiple singers including Sonu Nigaam, Srinivas, Karthik, Timmy, Sunaida, Vivienne Pocha, Tina. Lyrics are about as good as they get for such a track. This is passable but the soundtrack offers so much more so let’s move on. Incidentally Shano Shano Remix by Krishna Chetan contains more vocals by Ember that are reminiscent of a ‘bad boy’ Yuvvraaj and hence the song is quite fitting for the movie. Nice alternative but nothing more.

After that minor blip, the soundtrack diverts itself onto the SOUL of Yuvvraaj with the utterly spellbinding Tu Muskura. The cello marks a sensational return and solo cellist V.R. Sekar and Elidh Martin (K M M C Faculty) do Rahman proud with some fine performances. Their cello play is underpinned by a percussion that hypnotises you soothingly from the start and keeps you firmly in a trance until the very end. As if that wasn’t enough, the allure of a previous melody (belonging to Tu Meri Dost Hain) sweeps past you briefly as Rahman magically weaves it into the song via the deft strings of Seenu's Mandolin play.

And yet, we have not even discussed the true catalyst of the song. So many have written her off but Rahman as we know, is loyal to his singing dynasty. And so marks the return of an old favourite: Alka Yagnik. Well in my opinion (based on her singing here) it will be a travesty if she is not nominated for the best female playback singer (award) for a performance that is as mesmerizing as the musical backdrop that she sings against. She is simply a transformed singer here, sometimes unrecognizable and from recollection, her last performance of such magnitude was Rang Hai (Meenaxi: A Tale of Three Cities) which confirms the mastery of ARR over his singers. Javed Ali did a great job in Jashn-e-Bahaara but plays second fiddle here to the bewitching vocals of Alka. Gulzar’s lyrics grab your inner soul and churn out what is left of your emotions… WOW! This is definitely one step closer to musical heaven….you could quite literally waste away hours, even days listening to this soul stirring masterpiece!

Gulzar- “When I saw the songs of Yuvvraaj on screen, I sent a message to Rahman saying that they were magnificent, and this is a very honest opinion of his songs and picturisation. Great showman puts up a great show! I think the performances of Subhash’s Yuvvraaj will go a long way in carrying this film ahead. It touches your heart.”
After such an emotionally draining roller coaster that was Tu Muskura one feels the need for a break and a diversion. Rahman duly obliges with Mastam Mastam, a delightfully uplifting track that also ranks as the most innovative of the soundtrack and also one of the best of 2008. The music is simple yet oozes witchcraft (the dhol and cello in tandem, play mind games on you like you have never heard before!), playful but at times melancholy, witty but with an underlying message. The interaction between the singers, Sonu Nigaam (outstanding as ever), Alka Yagnik, Naresh & Benny, is another highlight as are the incredibly unique and diverse lyrics, hats off to you Gulzar saab! Where Mastam Mastam lacks in instant attraction or a catchy melody, it more than makes up for after repeated listening and becomes an extremely enjoyable outing. Just be ready to click your fingers to one of Rahman’s most underrated song of 2008.

The soulful journey of Yuvvraaj ends with Zindagi in which the composer continues to amaze in more ways than one. Depending on your preferences and mood swings, you could potentially enjoy this more than Tu Muskura. First up expect to be blown away by the Woodwinds play by P M K Naveen Kumar. If you recover from that, there is the enticing piano and strings of the Chennai String Orchestra. Rahman’s fusion of these incredible sounds is the best remedy for a stressful mind! The distinct vocals are instantly recognizable but this is not Hariharan listeners, this is Srinivas, another long time favourite of Rahman who also sang in the brilliant Yeh Jo Zindagi Hai (Earth 1947). In fact with such awesome vocals, one wonders why we have not heard more from him. Gulzar outdoes himself once again and for his complete collection in Yuvvraaj, runs away with the best lyrics of the year award. Zindagi is another must listen.
The penultimate track Dil Ka Rishta is a diversion of a completely different kind that takes you by complete surprise! Initially you don’t realize as a beautiful piano introduction is cut short by a cello play but your senses are instantly awestruck by the powerful nature of the drums and the full-blown orchestration that follows immediately after that. Welcome to the PASSION of Yuvvraaj and another unique twist to the soundtrack! This one has it all; a catchy tune, peppy beats, symphony orchestra, English verses (by Blazze) and some killer vocals by Sonu Nigaam, Roopkumar Rathod and ARR himself. Rahman puts this potpourri of ingredients to amazing use and delivers another winner even thought strictly speaking, the song is clearly situational and is attached to the relationship of the three brothers in the movie. Fascinating yet irresistibly Rahman!

Manmohini Morey ends the OST with a short classical piece that Rahman enhances with the use of synth to suit the taste of modern listeners. Vijay Prakash provides the vocals against Gulzar’s verses. Undoubtedly a commendable effort with addictive nuances, the track is too short to make any lasting impression. However do listen out for the chilling return of the cello fromTu Muskura around the 1:50 mark…clearly the maestro couldn’t resist one last rendezvous!
So where does Yuvvraaj OST sit in the hallmarks of all time great Rahman soundtracks? It will probably be years before we can answer that, will it stand the test of time? Without question. However what is clear is that it is not flawless in its execution like say a Taal OST which was perfect from A-Z. However we cannot underestimate the impact the soundtrack will have on the movie, the potential is colossal whatever the fate of the movie at the box office.
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Subhash Ghai (to Rahman): “Now that most of the popular Hindi film songs are only about disco and Punjabi folk music, does it makes sense to make a musical like Yuvvraaj?” Rahman's response: “Why not? If you get out of your comfort zone…go for experiments and innovations….new music will happen!”
Posted by Kanika at 4:39 PM 1 comments

Yuvvraaj-Sneak Preview

2008-11-02T16:35:00.001+05:30

Apart from a few changes to the title- first it was “Main Yuvraaj” then just “Yuvraaj” and finally “Yuvvraaj”, very little has been said about Subhash Ghai's next movie. However it doesn't take a genius to understand why this should stand up there with the most anticipated releases of 2008. Firstly it's Ghai's biggest release since “Kisna” and before that “Taal”. “Black and White” was a mere distraction. Secondly it brings together a stella cast headed by the inimitable Salman Khan who has, in recent years, been coasting along his career in pretty lazy fashion churning out comedy roles in the main- it's about time he got a proper role that tested his undoubted acting skills. Will Yuvvraaj be that movie? Says the director (about Salman):
“He's a good soul. And I realize he's truly a gem of a person. If he had watched his steps he would become an emperor in the entertainment business. Apart from a few films his talent hasn't been exploited well. Even he doesn't know how talented he is. I don't want to present him as Salman in Yuvvraaj. I want to present him as an actor, like Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam did." (
But will Salman be wearing his favourite earrings in the movie? Ahem, one hopes not! Aside from that what will be particularly interesting is how the director manages the onscreen chemistry between Salman and Katrina (Kaif) who hitherto, has relied on others (Akshay Kumar) and her great looks to achieve success in the industry.
So what do we know about the movie thus far? According to Subhash Ghai the film is about the arrogance and overconfidence of contemporary youth: "Everyone wants to be a rock star, regardless of whether they have the morals to go with the appellation.”
So we have an understanding about the theme but what about the execution? As we know today’s Bollywood screenplay leaves a lot to be desired barring a few exceptions and Ghai recognizes this for his latest project:
“Today everyone who wants to be a writer becomes a writer. That isn't the way creativity works. In Yuvvraaj I've got a team of six writers to write the screenplay, three of them veterans(including me) and three youngsters. These innovative writers will guide the veterans..."

The final major selling point of the movie is the music of course and what a prospect we have on our hands! Firstly any soundtrack from Rahman is anticipated on an epic scale by fans worldwide. So the fact that he pairs up with known success partners (the great lyricist Gulzar and director Ghai), can only enhance our expectations! It is a well known fact that Subhash favours one and only one musician for his movies:
“Rahman and I have been in touch constantly. We gel really well. Like Taal, Yuvvraaj is based on music. I've told Rahman, Yuvvraaj belongs to two people, Rahman and Subhash Ghai, in that order. All the main characters are musicians in Yuvvraaj."
So the characters of Yuvvraaj are musicians in the movie? And (as implied) such is the grand role of music that the director resorts to crediting the movie to Rahman first? What does that say for the quality of the music in the movie? It goes without saying that if it’s anywhere near as good as "Taal", we are in for something truly special indeed. Incidentally, the OST is released in early October and something you need to add to your wish list now….

Back to the movie, so who is Yuvvraaj then out of Salman, Anil or Zayed? We can guess all we like but ultimately we will have to wait and see for ourselves when the movie hits the big screen this November!

Yuvvraaj: A musical entertainer by Subhash Ghai

2008-10-20T15:50:00.002+05:30

Yuvvraaj is a story of three children of a billionaire father brought up in different environments. Their passion for their aspirations and the clash of different persona makes a very exciting plot for the movie. This music album is composed by ace music director A R Rahman and poetical words with depth of Gulzar Sahib and the directorial excellence of Subhash Ghai. Yuvvraaj is an effort to express our Indian classical music weaving into western orchestra to create universal soul music.

The musical extravaganza 'YUVVRAAJ' stars Anil Kapoor, Salman Khan, Zayed Khan, Katrina Kaif and Boman Irani in the lead roles and has been shot in various picturesque locations of Europe, Mumbai etc.

"Yuvvraaj is a story of a family in Europe where a father creates a huge wealth for his three sons but ends up his life observing that they have lost family values and declare themselves as partner than brothers and play dangerous mind games with each other in need and greed of money. Only Katrina Kaif abeautiful musician in prague music orchestra bring them together on a stage to hold .. think..n experience the relationship with a new perspective...? A musical family entertainer with great performances by Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor and Zayed Khan as three brothers with three different traits and attitude nad Boman Irani who is surely a big obstacle in Salman love story...

YUVVRAAJ is being produced by Mukta Arts Entertainment and is slated to release on 21st November 2008.
Yuvvraaj is an attempt by Subhash Ghai to carry forward his showman tag, which he earned over the years through films like ‘Karz’, ‘Vidhaata’, ‘Hero’, ‘Karma’, ‘Ram Lakhan’, ‘Saudagar’, ‘Pardes’ ,’Taal’, etc. Since it’s a musical he’s has the best talent in the country, the cream of the lot-Gulzar and AR Rahman. Not to forget the pretty foreign locales and lovely sets and costumes.

Character Sketches:-

Deven Yuvvraaj [Salman Khan] needs money to win over his billionaire beloved - a beauty queen, Katrina Kaif
Gyanesh Chandra [Anil Kapoor] is yet to realize the color of money, but unfortunately gets caught in a web of greed & deceit
Danny [Zayed Khan] breaths nothing but money, the only power he knows
Anushka [Katrina Kaif] is passionate about music and besotted for an earthy man Deven Yuvvraaj. She plays a catalyst through her music in this family drama in which one will laugh, cry, sing and dance

Cast:-

Anil Kapoor , Salman Khan , Katrina Kaif , Zayed Khan Aushima Sawhney , Aimee Maghera, Javed Sheikh & Boman Irani

Credits:-

Banner: Mukta Arts
A film by: Subhash Ghai
Music: A. R. Rahman
Lyrics: Gulzar
Cinematograper: Kabir Lal
Art director: Omung Kumar
Choreographer: Chinni and Rekha Prakash / Shaimak Davar / Ahmed Khan
Sound designer: Rakesh Ranjan
Background Music: A. R Rahman
Associate Producer: Raju Farooqui
Executive Producer: Shamira Karim