Gulzar and A.R. Rahman Release Heartfelt Song of Healing ‘Meri Pukaar Suno’

Master composer A.R. Rahman and legendary lyricist Gulzar’s evocative new collaboration “Meri Pukaar Suno” stands out for all its star power, calling on seven leading voices across decades — Alka Yagnik, K.S. Chithra, Shreya Ghoshal, Sadhana Sargam, Shashaa Tirupati, Armaan Malik and Asees Kaur.

Beyond the ensemble lineup, however, it’s impossible to overlook the titans helming this self-described “anthem of hope and healing.” It’s a rare collaboration between Rahman and Gulzar, who gave Indian music outstanding Bollywood soundtracks such as Dil Se.., Guru and “Jai Ho” on Slumdog Millionaire, which brought them Oscar and Grammy glory. Most recently, the duo worked together for songs off 2012’s Jab Tak Hai Jaan and Ok Jaanu in 2017.

More so, “Meri Pukaar Suno” is even rarer for being a Rahman-Gulzar collaboration outside of film soundtracks, a timely reminder about Mother Earth and the to “value the gift of life.” Calling on top voices, Yagnik, Ghoshal, Chithra and Sadhana lead through most of the track, emotively singing with a maternal tone with supporting vocal parts from younger, established artists like Tirupati and Kaur. Plus, Malik arrives right at the end of the song, elevating the already poignant song. He heeds the call to stay mindful, extending a heartwarming pledge to uphold the hopes of the earth.

While the video — directed by Nazeef Mohammed — doesn’t feature Rahman or Gulzar beyond static images tastefully superimposed on television sets, it does center on ideas of promise-bearing future generations and childhood. The makers offer thanks to Iranian filmmaker Mohammad Reza Kheradmandan, whose powerful original short film Mother they draw from visually.

Watch the video for “Meri Pukaar Suno” below.