Independence Day 2022: Evergreen A R Rahman songs guaranteed to light the spark within listeners

It would not be an exaggeration to call A R Rahman one of the most influential and beloved Indian musicians of the century. The musician has graced the country’s film industry with some gems that several Indians hold dear to their hearts. Rahman also seems to have a penchant in creating stirring patriotic songs that people can’t help but fall in love with. The musician has composed the soundtrack to some of the most well known and exemplary patriotic films Bollywood has ever witnessed, whose songs remain as mesmerising as ever. On this Independence day, here are a few songs by A R Rahman from popular Bollywood films, guaranteed to light the fire within every listener:

Chale Chalo from Lagaan

The soundtrack to Lagaan was hailed by many as being one of the finest works of Rahman, with many even calling it the musician’s magnum opus. Chale Chalo is one song from the critically acclaimed film’s soundtrack that still holds a special place in fans’ hearts, with its rich folk tunes and powerful lyrics. Rahman composed the song and also sang it with Srinivas, while Javed Akhtar penned its lyrics. Lagaan can be streamed on Netflix.

Des Mere Des from The Legend of Bhagat Singh

The legendary story of Bhagat Singh was immortalised on the silver screen in this 2002 film, which starred Ajay Devgn as the titular revolutionary. The revolutionary’s undying love and respect for the nation was beautifully captured in the song Des Mere Des from The Legend of Bhagat Singh. The song was sung by Rahman and Sukhwinder Singh, while Sameer has penned the song’s lyrics. Rahman, who composed the song as well, revealed that he had taken inspiration from Lagaan’s music for the song as well. The Legend of Bhagat Singh can be streamed on Netflix, MX Player and Voot.

Aazadi from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero

Subhas Chandra Bose also holds a place as one of the most popular and iconic Indian revolutionaries of the country. The revolutionary’s compelling calls for Indians to unite to earn their freedom still echoes strongly, and the spirit of the same was captured by Rahman in the song Aazadi from Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose: The Forgotten Hero. The song was sung by A.R. Rahman and features a breathtaking orchestra to back him as well. The film can be streamed on MX Player.

Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera from Swades 

Swades’ story of a man whose return to his homeland helped him find his way back to his roots seemed to have touched many. The cult classic film featured Rahman weave his magic yet again. The lyrics to Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera, from the film’s soundtrack, seem to speak to Indians in a way few songs can. Rahman has composed and sung the song, which has lyrics penned by Javed Akhtar. Swades can be streamed on Netflix.

Luka Chuppi from Rang De Basanti

The poignant Luka Chuppi from Rang De Basanti holds a special place among Rahman’s songs. Both stirring and heartbreaking at the same time, the song’s lyrics were penned by Prasoon Joshi. The soulful song features the enchanting vocals of Lata Mangeshkar and Rahman. The film can be watched on Apple TV.