Lata Mangeshkar, AR Rahman, Sonu Nigam — several singers have come out with their own versions of the national song Vande Mataram. The latest is Mika Singh, who has recreated his version of the patriotic song, to which he will be performing with 500 CRPF jawans on Independence Day. The song will be a part of a show called Azaadi, to be aired on Life Ok. Says Mika, “Many versions of Vande Mataram are already out including that of singer Lata Mangeshkar’s and composer A R Rahman’s. But they are about war heroes who have sacrificed their lives. My song is a tribute to the soldiers who are protecting our country now. Even my lyrics celebrate the pride of being Indian.”
And a cappella version of Rahman’s Vande Mataram is also out on music channel 9XM. It’s been sung by PennMasala, a band of Indian American students. A cappella music is essentially about singing without instrumental sound. Says Navin Waadhera, Founder PennMasala, “The entire experience of arranging and learning the song was very special for the group. It’s always been our favourite number and every time we hear the song we feel really close to India.”
Interestingly, even the international channel Animal Planet is going desi with Yeh Mera India song to be launched on August 15. Composed and sung by Leslie Lewis along with singers Shaan, Mathangi and Monali, it will be aired on the channel. The song, incidentally, celebrates the rich flora and the amazing variety of animals abounding in the country. Says Leslie, “We have so many animals and colourful flora, the highest mountains and deepest forests, even the music reflects that. The song starts on a soft note and it builds up gradually giving it an anthem-like feel.”
It remains to be seen if the modern versions of the national song and the brand new Yeh Mera India bring out the patriot
in you.
