Ghazals Are the Original Heartbreak Music for the Ages, as Pratibha Singh Baghel’s New Album Proves
‘Lafz Bheege Hain’ is based off the poetry of Ajay Sahaab on the love story of 20th century writers Amrita Pritam and Sahir Ludhianvi, brought to life by composer Rajesh Singh and producer-arrange Paras Nath
Singer Pratibha Singh Baghel. Photo: Parasher Baruah
Singer Pratibha Singh Baghel breathes new life into one of the most comforting and nuanced forms of storytelling – the ghazal – on her new album Lafz Bheege Hain with producer-arranger Paras Nath.
Across five tracks, Baghel’s sorrowing introspection is driven by poetry by writer and lyricist Ajay Sahaab and given a more modern tonality by Nath and composer Rajesh Singh. The songs – based on the tumultuous love story of writers Amrita Pritam and Sahir Ludhianvi – are accompanied by a video series that stars actors Prachi Desai and Som Chattopadhyay portraying a romanticized version of the real-life story.
Lafz Beeghe Hain is released via the label Sufiscore and is every bit indulgent in the way that ghazals are known to be. The songs average at a six-minute length, with the title track opening the album at eight minutes. It creates a mood, builds the setting on emotion and makes for a comforting listen for the brokenhearted, perhaps as dusk arrives. Ajay Sahaab says in a statement that the goal with these songs is to “revive the classicity of the ghazal.” He adds, “In a very humble way but with energy, we are trying to convey emotions so that modern generations can feel the intensity of words, music, poetry, composition and instruments.”
Baghel – best known for her work in ghazals as well as devotional music – shares a deep connect with the poetry and music of the project. She says, “When I first listened to Lafz Bheege Hain, time stopped. I knew I had to be a part of this. I’m glad that this was my first ghazal [album] ever.” Despite the larger appeal of ghazals more to older generations, Baghel believes the emotions behind the album “are held in common throughout the world.” She adds, “Those feelings of love and separation and sadness are the same everywhere. The poetry and compositions of Lafz Bheege Hain are for everybody who can relate to this.”
Watch the videos from the album below. Stream ‘Lafz Beeghe Hain’ here.
