Ab Bhi Sonchtaa Hoon Main
The recent tragic event in Kolkata has left an indelible mark on many, including Pramod and Raj, who, like countless others, are grappling with shock and sorrow. As US citizens with deep ties to Kolkata and Bengal-historically known as safe havens for women-they felt compelled to find a meaningful way to honor the departed and protest against such a horrific crime. Thousands of miles from their homeland, they turned to poetry and music, mediums that often convey emotions more powerfully than words alone.
Pramod channeled his literary talents into creating poignant verses, while Raj composed a melody inspired by Raag Darbari, which captures a spectrum of emotions. He lent his voice to evoke the deep pathos embedded in the lyrics, enhanced by a heart-wrenching "Alaap/Tarana" during the interludes. Raj also enlisted the help of fellow musicians-Kashif Khan, a professional keyboardist, who arranged the song, and Adnan Khan, a lead jazz guitarist, who added depth to the composition and managed sound editing in his home studio. Although Kashif and Adnan are US citizens and not of Indian origin, they shared in the collective grief over the tragic event, underscoring the idea that "human values" transcend borders. In the face of such deplorable incidents, the world unites as a global community.
The song's lyrics, melody, and performance resonate deeply with listeners, embodying not only a lament for the brutality but also the widespread frustration and desire for justice. It serves as a heartfelt call to preserve humanity and prevent future atrocities in any part of the world.
Raj Bhattacharya, a true son of Kolkata, has a profound connection to his cultural roots, having grown up in a vibrant milieu of art and tradition. He began studying Hindustani Classical Music at a young age and became a "Sangeet Visharad," specializing in Thumri. Active in the musical circles of India, Raj now resides in Dallas, USA, where he works as a senior executive in the tech industry. Despite his busy life balancing professional and personal commitments, his passion for music remains strong. He continues to engage with musical communities in the US, taking on roles as a lead vocalist and composer.
Pramod Rajput, originally from a small village in Bihar, is now a US citizen. A software engineer and a celebrated author and poet in Hindi and Urdu, he gained recognition when Prime Minister Narendra Modi recited lines from one of his ghazals in the Indian Parliament in February 2019. Pramod has penned several works, including:
His writing beautifully intertwines human emotions, allowing readers to connect deeply with his themes of love, pain, joy, and inspiration. All of his works are available globally in paperback and eBook formats, with Love is a Verb also offered as an audiobook on popular platforms. Pramod Rajput's literary contributions transcend geographical boundaries, enriching the world of literature and inspiring readers everywhere.
