Abhay Jodhpurkar

With its latest theatrical release, India’s first silent film to be screened at IIFI – Gandhi Talks has quietly but powerfully captured hearts through poignant storytelling and an evocative musical soul. Among its most talked-about highlights are two songs from the Marathi version of the film… ‘Jara Jara Man Khulavate’ and ‘Angai’ (Lullaby), both composed by the legendary A.R. Rahman.

But what has got the audiences especially music lovers in a delightful tizzy, is discovering that the deeply expressive vocals anchoring these tracks belong to the versatile and soulful Abhay Jodhpurkar. In fact, each song, distinct in mood and emotion, has emerged as a breakout favourite, adding layers of intensity, romance, and poignancy to the film’s narrative. Abhay’s voice doesn’t merely accompany the visuals; it elevates them, becoming an emotional conduit for the story. TheGlitz tunes in…

Abhay Jodhpurkar – Three Songs, One Emotional Universe

It gets even better… Beyond the two film tracks, Abhay has also lent his voice to ‘Sunhari Kirane’, unveiled during the audio launch of Gandhi Talks on 26th January. The song’s video, currently streaming on the official channel of Zee Music Company, has been drawing appreciation for its emotive melody and heartfelt rendition.

Together, these three soulful pieces form a cohesive musical universe… gentle yet stirring… that mirrors the film’s restrained yet deeply affecting tone.

What we loved: Each composition underscores the idea that music, even in its softest form, can speak volumes when words fall silent.

A Silent Romance Whispered Through Melody

‘Jara Jara Man Khulavate’ unfolds as a tender romantic ballad, set against the understated charm of Bombay’s streets and picturised on Aditi Rao Hydari and Vijay Sethupathi. The song captures the quiet intimacy of a secret romance, told not through grand declarations but through fleeting glances and unspoken moments. Abhay’s nuanced musical delivery complements the song’s lyrical softness, allowing emotion to breathe between notes. The track gently wraps the narrative in warmth, becoming a moment of calm and closeness within the film’s larger emotional arc.

A Lullaby Laden With Longing

In stark contrast, ‘Angai’ (Lullaby) arrives at a poignant turning point in the film, carrying an undercurrent of pain, yearning, and fragile hope. Soothing yet haunting, the lullaby balances tenderness with an ache that lingers well after it ends. Abhay’s voice, textured and intimate, amplifies the emotional gravity of the moment. The song feels less like a performance and more like a whispered confession, reflecting the weight of silence and the complexity of human emotion at that juncture in the story.

Working With Maestro A.R.Rahman

Reflecting on the overwhelming response to the music and his collaboration with Rahman, Abhay shares, “It’s an honour to be part of such a beautiful and widely celebrated project, especially with a maestro like A.R. Rahman. I feel truly overwhelmed to see that both tracks are still trending and receiving so much love from audiences. I’m filled with immense gratitude for all the warmth and appreciation.” He adds that working with Rahman is always transformative: “Every time I sing for him, I discover a new nuance about my own voice.”

From ‘Kadal’ to ‘Gandhi Talks’

Abhay fondly recalls being launched by Rahman in 2013 with his Tamil debut in Mani Ratnam’s Kadal, directed by Mani Ratnam. “Ever since then, he has given me so many beautiful gems throughout my playback career,” he says.

For Gandhi Talks, Abhay was called to Rahman’s Mumbai studio in early 2022 to record background score scratches. “We were jamming all night, and that’s when the lullaby happened. I had a sore throat that day, but somehow that husk added to the texture of the song, since it plays on the radio in the film,” he reveals.

Giving Sound to a Silent Narrative

Working on a largely silent, narrative-driven film was a revelation for Abhay. “Since the music carries the narrative, the responsibility to do justice to the emotions felt even greater,” he explains.

Collaborating with director Kishore Belekar proved equally inspiring. “His vision was so clear that everything just flowed. I was given complete freedom to express myself as an artist. It’s definitely one of the best working experiences of my life, and I’m really proud to be associated with this project.”

TheGlitz Verdict: A Voice That Transcends Languages

Abhay Jodhpurkar’s melodious journey spans over a decade with more than 300 projects across 14 languages. From his acclaimed debut in Kadal to his Bollywood breakthrough with ‘Mere Naam Tu’ from Shah Rukh Khan’s Zero, composed by Ajay-Atul, his voice has consistently resonated for its emotional richness.

With Gandhi Talks, Abhay once again proves that when music meets meaning, the result is timeless… and unforgettable.