Intinta Annamayya - Audio Review

Movie:          Intintaa Annamayya (Telugu - 2013)
Producer:    Yalamanchili Saibaba
Cast:            Revanth, Ananya and Sanam Shetty

Direction:    K. Raghavendra Rao

Music:         MM Keeravani

There is no Telugu person who doesn't know or havent heard Govinda Namam, that same applies to a Venkateswara devotee who doesnt know Annamayya. Such an influence Annamayya has on Telugu person. Intintaa Annamayya is a very apt title for any kind of movie. Yalamanchili Sai who produced "Sri Ramarajyam" came up with yet another movie that will touch many Telugu people's heart. Having his own Yalamanchili Revanth as lead makes this film to be more passionate for him. Introducing any son as hero typically will be done thru a commercial entertainer.

However introducing with a quite interesting concept proves how sensible producer Saibaba is. The story line as told was about a top class western singer who gets influenced and transforms himself with Annamayya's literature and music. There are innumerable such real life stories which are similar who were influenced by Annamayya and dedicated their most of the life towards bringing out Annamayya's work public. There are innumerable singers, philosophers, scholars who were influenced and attracted towards Anammayya's sankeertanas and other works. No wonder about the story line.

The challenge anyone faces while making these kind of movies is that what to be included from innumerous sankeertanas of Annamayya. What to choose to be content of the movie. Too many or less songs will influence the movie. There has to be a real balance on picking the content for the movie.  Its an uphill task to choose from 14900 odd sankeertanas that are available today that were written and composed by Annamayya.

Then comes the challenge for music director, composing any keertanas he/she faces three issues to match the following

1) There are many versions of these keertana's available today and people have heard thru different voices and enjoyed them.

2) Annamayya himself being a vaggeyakara (who can write and  compose ) and who instantaneously wrote these keertanas has specific raaga, bhaava, taala.  

3) Set the expectations of movie lovers by making these songs interesting.

It is such a tough challenge, however on the other hand since there is clue available on how to compose these songs, all music director has to do is to be in line with these compositions, provide another variation, thereby be successful to reach people with the songs but loose his/her identity.

This movie as per story line should contain a pattern which shows the transformation of the western music influenced person to Annamayya's path. So as seen in the songs playlist, we see that transformation. For a moment if story is not known, there is all possibility to assume how come there are different genre songs in this movie. Then singers choice, as per story line it would have been apt for a single singer to sing all the songs that are performed in movie by the lead actor, but we dont see that pattern. Not sure what went thru by the minds of movie team ( Producer, director and music director) to choose different male singers. Its is good surprise not to see many north Indian singers in this album list. Raghavendra Rao and MM Keeravani are good team and there shouldnt be any surprises from this duo as per their earlier works. Their combination earlier produced good music for Annamayya, but failed for Pandurangadu and Ramadasu. Lets see whether Annamayya's magic works again for us or not.

1. Introduction [1:04]   
Artist(s): MM. Keeravani

One minute short and sweet introduction of the movie which gives an idea of what is headed in this album. However nothing can be told about Annamayya in one minute. Such great is the life of Annamayya.

Padakavita pitamaha Sri Taalla paaka Annamaacharya is a phenomenon in Telugu history. His life is miraculously wondeful and fascinates any person who encounters details of his works. Lived more than 600 years ago born in Tallapaka village, he carries a great shoulders to influence Telugu literature by his works. Like any other lifes of sages/rishi's/acharya's his life is full of wonders. He is believed to be a form of Sri Venkateswara himself. Child prodigy by himself one will wonder in his life time how could he write 32000 sankeertanas on Lord venkateswara. This averages to 500 sankeeratanas per year, which means every word came out of his mouth is one or other form of sankeertana. It is fortunate one way that atleast ~14900 are available. His son and grandson made them available for us. One stored his works on talapatras, the other carved them on raagi patras(copper plates)  and stored in sankeertana bhaandaagaram in Sri Venkateswara Temple in tirumala. When this was opened, all we got in invaluable treasure that can be cherished for many centuries.

There are many wonderful stories on how he said all these sankeertanas, which are colloqual form of Telugu where Sanskrit was main language those days. At the age of 16, having such a knowledge of sahityam and music, is really wonder. When Sri Venkateswara comes into his dream, he is all set to create literary wonders during his journey and after to Tirumala. Reading his works and life is a fascinating experience of how blessed he is with Lords grace. His encouter with Raja who asks him to write about himself is another amazing story. His learning Vishistadvaita and then his Telugu Translation of Ramayana, writing 12 satakams on different deity's ( only one is available today ), his tour on south India tells us all the life of greats are similar.

TTD has been trying to bring his works to light by various activities by funding the projects. Many people like Mangalampalli Balamurali Krishna, MS Subbulakshmi, Nedunuri Krishna murthy, G Balakrishna prasad, Rallapalli Ananta Sarma Dr Sobharaj, Dwaram Lakshmi, Vedavati Prabhakar and many more contributed significantly to Annamayya's works and shared their joyful experience with us. 

Lets continue one more similar journey of listening to Anammayya.

2. Life Is A Dream [3:36]   
Lyricist: Prudhvi Chandra
Singers(s): Prudhvi Chandra, Deepu, KC

Keeravani has been lately deviating more from traditional music and catering to the needs of so called youthful music demand from the movie makers. His introduction tune of the "Ruler" song from Dammu was proof for that. He continues with this kind of music in this song too. This song is mix of Telugu and English, first half of the line is in Telugu and second half is English, Just to prove that this is techno music and is all for youth and western. Prudhvi Chandra is another kid on the block accompanied by Deepu who is a mandatory singer for Keeravani and KC. All of them bring in required energy for this song. Prudhvi Chandra wrote and sung which is later replaced by Karthik when transformation happens. This song has all eliments of youthful music, the guitar, the beats, the pace, the rhythm, but the tune is all beaten up. If expecting something fresh this song doesnt provide. But voices of all singers try to provide some good feeling.

3. Wanna Tell You Something [3:15]   
Artist(s): Prudhvi Chandra
Lyricist: Prudhvi Chandra

Starts with a simple guitar beats, Prudhvi Chandra continues the same pattern of lyrics, ( half telugu and English) and Keeravani kind of extends the song to make it more simpler. Guitar beats attract to this song. Prudhvi Chandra's off beat voice adds some flavor to the song. Could be a situational song, dont know what this song is for.



4. Narayanaya [4:25]   
Artist(s): Karthik, Ramya Behra
Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

Not sure who gave introduction to this song. He sounded extra cautious, weak voiced, probably murmuring. Amruta Bhandalu could have pronounced with more stress. Then comes Karthik with Narayana mantram. With this song there ends the western music, the Telugu English fusion lyrics and comes to Annamayya. Probably Karthik is transformed voice of the lead actor. Karthik is known as the better singer in the current, lot proves why he is there. He sings with vigour and energy. His rendering is theoretically flawless. But he could have done better in pronounciation like saying Sobhana moortaye, Dhatreesha, Bhimmani and other words. Ramya Behra supported Karthik very well, though didnt get much footage and identity in this song. Keeravani composes this song with traditional temple bells in the start, slowly fuses the songs to make it more appealing. He made sure the background music is not very loud, flute accompanies in right place, the chorus is good. Narayana mantram brings in ecstasy to whoever says it with vigor and devotion. This song if picturized properly KRR for sure will, should leave a very good feeling once the song is complete. Hope this song lives to that expectation.

5. Venkatadri Samam [6:14]
Artist(s): SP. Balasubramaniam, Karthik, Sunitha
Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

Longest song in this movie. Its divine to hear SPB sir's voice in traditional telugu songs. However Bhaavamulona baahyamunanduno, didnt sound right. Not sure why Keeravani added that additional tip in the end. May be because of extra gamakam at nanduno, or I got used to this song in traditional singing by MS and others. Also SPB first time sounded different at hari namamu after nanana,,, ( between karthik and Sunita ) is it a recording glitch? There after its a treat from him. Seems like Lead actor is learning music and gets patted in between. Keeravani knows that these songs should sound very pleasant and doesnt deviate from this formula. He also doesnt deviate from his trademark music. In between karthik sounded he sung kannada. Need to hear few more times to get what he sang actually. The beauty of Annamayya's lyrical bliss is all over. Everything with greatness of musical, lyrical values and ending with all dedicated to Lord gives eternal feeling of bliss. Blessed is Annamayya who for sure having for every moment of his life having this feeling and he himself having blessings of Lord Venkateswara.

5. Kamalasana [4:21]   
Artist(s): Bombay Jayashri
Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

Bombay Jayashri proves what a classical background can make difference to this kind of song. How effortlessly she sings is a treat for music lovers. Keeravani excellently composes song to make it more presentable. This classical composition from Annamayya has beauty all over. The modern age lyricist who are behind prasa, should take a clue here and there from this song. The way he weaves this keertana is just a sample of what Annamayya is about. Thats why people are madly in love with his works. And on top they all are dedicated to Lord Venkateswara and Padmavathi. Its a huge treasure to dig out and find unlimited happiness. Any inspiration to get associated with Annamayya's works will leave one the bliss that is freely available and doesnt come with cost. These kind of movies let people revisit the lost happiness we tend to forget in daily struggles. And third time in a row in this movie songs, Keeravani slowly increases the pace and ends in a higher pitch to leave listeners at that elevated level.

6. Sri Venkatadri Meeda [5:26]   
Artist(s): SP. Balasubramaniam
Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

Starts with Keeravani humming few words, then SPB with his usual himself, tells us we have yet another treat in line. The beauty of the words leaves one at a great feeling

manchi venna buvvalipudu malasi aaragincha nerche
anchitamuga sree venkatadri meedanu
enchi appalappalanuchu enasi kaagilincha nerche
dincharani puramu meeda divyakantha nu -- nandagopa..

Keeravani I guess just went with the flow of the words without having much to do which helped this song a lot. Then the pace increases and Srinivasa Govinda is attached to the song. The transformation is very nice and SPB Sir's voice leaves us spell bound. We might have heard this many times but every time we hear Srinivasa Govinda it leaves the same feeling. Thats the power.

7. Navamoorthulainatti [2:01]  

Artist(s): Kalpana

Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

Annamayya is known to have visited many deities during his South India tour and wrote on those deities whenever he visited. Kadiri Narasimha swamy is one of them. Unfortunately not every such work is available to us. This song is captured from one such keertana of Annamayya. Sung in carnatic classical way again Keeravani ends this song on higher note.

8. Pallukuthenela [3:45]   
Artist(s): MM. Keeravani, Shivani
Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

Keeravani for sure brings in the feeling but he doesnt bring the voice required for any song he sings. "cha" pavalinchenu is not what it should be pronounced. He adds some additional stress and style which is key. Shivani is good accompanying keeravani. Annammayya's greatness is his words. Keeravani doesnt bring clarity to the words. He is subtle in pronouncing the words so there by loosing the effect. This song female voice is composed to be pathos. Movie will tell why.

9. Chandamama Raavo [3:46]
Artist(s): Karthik
Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

As rightly said by Tanikella Bharani during audio release, not many know that "Chandamama ravo" is written by Annamayya. karthik is back after a break. This song is not to the same class and quality of Narayanaya. Chorus and baby who sang did their job. Keeravani experimented in this composition to make it more situational. He fused various elements to make it more movie oriented. Somehow I feel this transition didnt work effectively between chandamama ravo, palumaru utla panduganu. Again one should listen to this song for the lyrical beauty.

10. Yekulajudemi [4:46]   
Artist(s): MM. Keeravani, Shivani
Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

I again would have been happy if Keeravani would have avoided singing in this album. parulu taane ani bhavinchu vaadu, he is not clear when he pronounced bhavinchu, again nirmaludai which was intially he not clear. Clarity in voice is very important. But fascination towards Annamayya would have made him sung. But when there are umpteen options available for this song, something has to be different. In the end when Keeravani says Hareee, there is slight issue with the gamaka. Anyways with all these side effects, still we can enjoy this song. Shivani dominates this song and she does very well.

11. Neekesaranu [3:30]
Artist(s): Sunitha
Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

At any time I would have preferred Chitra singing this kind of songs. We have seen how she was missed in SriRamarajyam where singers messed up such a long lasting songs. Sunitha is trusted singer by Keeravani but the main issue for singing this songs is that, every emotion has to be explicitly balanced. Even if it is slightly over done or not met, the song goes here and there. Sunitha tends to get carried away by emotions adding that additional feelings which doesnt help neither herself or the song.

12. Ayameva [5:09]  
Artist(s): Karthik, Bhargavi Pillai, Shivani, Prudhvi Chandra
Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

Annamayya has written most of his works in Telugu. However he has done some in Sanskrit. His major sankeertanas are divided into Sringara and Adyatyam. The Sringara rasa is mostly to praise God and Goddess, and Adyatyam indicating the Vishistadwaitam. He exclusively follows Srivaishnava sidhanta. This song is fusion mix with including both forms of music. Everyone did their job well. Since fusion music this song might not have universal appeal. But movie demands this song, so is done.

13. Telisithe Moksham [4:56]
Artist(s): Karthik, Ramya Behra
Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

Karthik and Ramya did great job in this song. These two gave their best in this album. Keeravani again choose to compose this in high volume with some action and drama. Medadi has been sound as Meda adi.. I guess some lyrics have been changed a little here and there just to make it easy. Not sure which one is correct.

అనయము సుఖమేడ  - దవల దు:ఖమేడది
తనువుపై నాసలేని - తత్వమతికి
పొనిగితే బాపమేది -పుణ్యమేది కర్మమందు
వొనర ఫలమొల్లవి - యోగికిని

The difference in singing tells how words are sounded in any language, karthik made it sing differently to what is supposed to be శ్రీవేంకటేశ్వరుడు - చిత్తములో నున్నవాడు.

Anyways this song is another good attempt by the singers and Keeravani leaves listeners on high note yet again.

14. Brahma Kadigina Paadamu [1:53]  

Artist(s): Krishna Chaitanya

Lyricist: Annamayya Keerthanas

Short and sweet song. Brahma kadigina padame mari. I always feel that Lord Venkateswara got the best out of Annamayya. Lord and devotee have mutually exclusive relationship between themselves. One cannot exist without others. Lord needs to have such devotees, and Devotees should have such God. and we are blessed to have existed to feel their relation.

Pick(s) of the album: How can one pick and choose if there are gems infront of us. Annamayya's works are something to treasure.

Yalamanchili Sai Baba has yet again done a commendable job. What he has done, how he has done is irrelevant. All that matters is how many people he touched, how many get enthusiastic about Annamayya, how many people get attracted towards spending some of the time towards Annamayya, How many who re-visited their association with Annamayya is that matters. Keeravani for sure walked on a tough path, the context has been different though he worked on same person's life earlier but we cannot compare the two works to say which one is great. Knowing the limitations he had in 1997 versus now tells all about this album.

This album once again proves that how sad state our Telugu film music industry is for lack of singers. All these singing talent shows are not able to bring out the real talented singers who can continue the legacy of SPB, KJY, P Susheela, SJanaki and Chitra. I am surprised to see ommission of few singers both for good and bad. I really hope some one in music industry wakes up and fills the gap. I am sure we dont have born talents, divine talents in the industry anymore. With the kind of junk music and lyrics we are hearing lately, this album is refreshing for music lovers ears. Atleast if not we can continue to listen to this movie songs, we can find them in existing Annamayya's albums from persons who dedicated their lifes towards him.

Everyone who listens to this album for sure realizes what are we missing lately in the Telugu music world. Kudos to everyone who made us to realize.

Baadshah (Telugu) - Audio Review

Movie: Baadshah (Telugu) - 2013

Music: SS Thaman

Director: Srinu Vaitla

Producer: Bandla Ganesh

Cast: Jr NTR, Kajal

Srinu Vytla is on a dookudu, with his last hit. Seems like he got the formula for success. The expectations are huge based on trailers, posters, videos released so far. NTR is wanting a huge hit for himself. Post Dammu, his fans are too looking for a movie that would answer his critics and anti fans. So far everthing is looking promising and everyone is eagerly waiting for the music which they can cherish till the movie arrives.
 

Thaman who is on the roll, released music of movie Shadow for Venkatesh couple of days, listening to the music, we can expect what is going to come out of his pocket. Positive side of Thaman is that he never disappoints anyone including his critics.
 

Without going much details of Thaman's team lets look for this songs, as he has his standard persons, Daler Mehendi, Jaspreet Jasz, Baba Sehgal, Suchitra and Shefali. With this combination of lyricists RJS, Bhaskarbhatla, we already know how the album is going to look like, lets complete the formality.

1. Sairo Sairo

Singer(s): Rahul Nambiar, Ranjith, Naveen
Lyrics: Krishna Chaitanya

 

This song was leaked earlier before the audio release. Somebody when this song was released said, this is inspired as if this was the only song he got. The song starts with a catcy tune and beats for a promising song, but then Thaman kicks in with his standard template music, The singers were fully energetic, but something is missing. Instruments are louder than 3 singers. అణిచా has become అని చా. When they said Saira in between not sure why they end with Sairo. when will these lyricists stop going behind prasa. Dil me hai dum, kyon hai ye gum? Sairo, Yaaro - may be that's why Saira has become Sairo. The chorus or singers in interludes just said whatever they wanted. Anyways this song is loud, powerful, energetic perfectly suits NTR. Fans only care about that much and rest of us has to go with that. Fans dont worry, We feel your heart.

2. Diamond Girl
Singer(s): S.T.R, Suchitra
Lyrics: Ramajogayya Sastry

Shadow had Naughty girl, this movie had Diamond girl. Pattern is same, style is same, sounds are similar. I am getting tired of listening the singers singing in same style. High pitch, voices changed. Thaman is the only music director who had only one pattern and is stuck to it. People are expecting variety, but Thaman only produces variety in sounds and singers. The interlude again he made different sounds with his new synthesizer he bought few months ago.  Is STR chosen just because its NTR movie? STR for NTR rhymes? I was thinking what was STR for MTR until I heard closely. Why Simbu had to sing with a fake style accent I dont understand, may be Thaman can explain. Simbu otherwise can sing much better than what he sang in this song. RJS was a usual, wrote whatever he wanted. As per Sirivennela garu's prophecy, if things are going the way right now, after a year or so, Telugu songs revolve around just 30-40 words. With RJS type of writers and Thaman kind of music directors it is already happening.

3. Baadshah
Singer(s): Hemachandra, Shefali Alvarez, Geeta Madhuri
Lyrics: Viswa

One more high volume, high paced, High pitch everything high song. If we forget about tune sounding familiar, Geeta Madhuri's singing, the rest is treat for fans. But the song appears that it has ended soon may be because of the pace. Srinu Vytla and NTR can elevate this song and add value to this song, normally otherway happens where song elevates the scene. The future of song depends purely on picturization.

4. Banti Poola Janaki

Singer(s): Daler Mehndi, Renina Reddy
Lyrics: Ramajogayya Sastry

Oh Boy, isn't there any better singer than Daler Mehndi? He sounded so irritating when he was saying Deniki and Janaki. Thaman has to be commended for successfully reusing the tunes from different songs. He for sure knows how to make his life easy. If any one answers correctly how many inspired songs that this song consists of, they can get a bumper prize from Thaman. Mass song perfectly apt for NTR and his dances.

5. Welcome kanakam
Singer(s): Sowmya, Jaspreet Jasz
Lyrics: Bhaskara Bhatla

Again there is nothing new in this song. Jaspreet was horrible when he sings Telugu. Sowmya mostly sounded like Geeta Madhuri, may be its Thaman's magic. Thaman is making a point to prove that changing a song here and there will become another song. He knows Music is nothing but playing around with Keyboard to get different sounds and then playing with seven notes to make a tune. He is trying to make a template and changing here and there. Thats why he is so consistent in his music. Once again a loud song for fans, masses, NTR's choreographers. As said in earlier song, "Shana" will be one of the 30-40 words that will be frequently used in Telugu songs.

6. Rangoli Ragoli
Singer(s): Divya Kumar, Sonu Kakkar, Baba Sehgal, M.M.Manasi
Lyrics: Ramajogayya Sastry

I heard that Thaman gave around 50 tunes for a single song, before NTR selected one, Not sure which one of these. I don't see any song worth of that hardship. The problem I have with hearing Thaman's music is that all of them sound same, all singers sound same or every song appears to be heard somewhere. On the top the multilingual lyricists, just adds multi-lingual words. This song is fast, out and out mass song, passable song for normal audience. Movie might add some value to this song if there are some dance movements aimed at fans. Not sure where is Baba Sehgal in this song. Happened same thing for Shadow too.

Pick(s) of the Album: None - For Fans - Sairo, Badshah.

I might be running out of words writing the same stuff after listening to each and every movie of Thaman, but movie makers, directors, Thaman and audience are not. If Thaman doesn't change( I doubt if at all he knows something else other than doing the same songs), he cannot stick to the industry too long. Getting top hero's movies, will make him unnoticed if movie is hit, but when movie's fate is otherwise, he will get noticed. With this kind of mediocre music he is giving, if he is getting too many offers, that means its not just about his music, there is some other factor. I guess this will remain as one of the lowest quality album of NTR. This music will be if at all hit, it is becaue of fans or movie's success. Non fans of NTR can easily stay away from this album.

Shadow (Telugu) - Audio Review

Movie: Shadow ( 2013 )
Music:  SS Thaman
Director: Meher Ramesh

Producer: Paruchuri Prasad

Cast: Venkatesh, Tapsee, Srikanth, Madhurima

 

Touted as costliest film of Victory Venkatesh, Shadow, movie comes after super hit SVSC. Venkatesh plays a role of Mafia Don, Tapsee Pannu playing female lead, is directed by Meher Ramesh known for stylish making of movies. Produced by Paruchuri Kireeti under United Movies banner. The audio is launched on 15th March 2013 and is all set to be released.

 

Thaman has a busy week ahead first releasing Shadow and then the other prestigious project "Baadshah". Thaman is know for his standard template Out of the Box music. Each time we hear his music, the expectations is whether he offered different music by disappointing us or by sticking to his template music there by there are no surprises. Lets see. Chandrabose is a single lyricist. We all know how chandrabose writes lyrics. Lets see whether he deviates or stays put. For Venky calibre artists, music doesnt impact the success of the movie anyways.

01 – Shadow

Singers : Baba Sehgal, Naveen
Lyrics : Chandrabose
 

Thaman Scored this title song, the most electrifying way, suprisingly not heavy, loud he used to. The issue is that its his template music. Chandrabose again tried to put in words to the tune whether it rhythms, rhymes or not he doesnt care all finally ends with "He is the Shadow". Rest all some illogical words. Trying to find something is a useless task. These two have re-defined the Telugu song to Telugu words with some noise. Tried hard to find Baba Sehgal in this song.

Ilayaraja in one of the concert said, every song has its own identity, if one song reminds another song then the song is the other song, not this song. There cannot be two same songs. This is the first lesson current crop of Music directors should learn. They might not be tired of making the same music again and again, infact its easy for them, but we cannot hear the same again and again. This is what happens to this song.

This song you can hear, but cant like, you can like but you cant enjoy, you can enjoy but you cant hear, because Oh NO "He(Thaman) is the Shadow" :-)
 

 02 – Gola Gola
Singers : Ranjith, Ramya
Lyrics : Chandrabose
 Chandrabose is trying to compete with Ramajogayya Sastry which is a futile attempt. RJS has made a brand of himself in multi lingual lyrics. The sounds in between was it kissing or Pedavi virupu? As said before any singer when they sing Thaman's song sound exactly the same. It doesnt matter who sings, his tunes maintain the same standards. Finally Thaman only ends this Gola by agreeing it is Gola. :-)

03 – Pilla Manchi Bando Bastu
Singers : Rahul, Suchitra
Lyrics : Chandrabose

The tune and singers broke the words into multi dimension pieces. "Got it" guys. BTW Suchitra has become a permanent singer in Telugu industry. Chandrabose garu, have you tried any time to write without prasa, ఎత్తుకెలత , నిన్ను లేపుకెలత నా చేతికి చిక్కినాదే చుట్టుకొలత. కొల్ల గొడత ఈడు దుళ్ళ గోడత నీ కంటికి నిద్దరింక ఎల్ల గొడత. Then ikkado, ekkado, pakado -and many more. Ravi teja is named Mass Maharaja, but I think you should get one too. What is the big deal any way. Coming to Thaman, cant say anything about his music, its like saying same thing again and again. Singers let down this song big time.

04 – Naughty Girl
Singers : Geetha Madhuri, Haricharan
Lyrics : Chandrabose

Thaman looks like he is experimenting his new instrument he got few months ago. He is trying out all different sounds. Coming to Geetha Madhuri, her voice many times sounds too childish, and when she changes her voice it doesnt sound good at all. Girl or Gaal both are same anyways. Chandrabose, tried to use the Gabbar singh famous dialog, and movie titles just to prove he is upto date on movies as well as Venky's movies. Haricharan, the way he said Naughty girl was so funny. This song can easily skipped one for Geeta Madhuri singing and the experiments Thaman did for the song, both irritates us. Most amaeturish ever song by Thaman.

05 – Aythalaka
Singers : Hemachandra, Simha, Vandana
Lyrics : Chandrabose

Teenmar, not sure how many understand what it is, but lately every one is uses left and right. Now dinka chikka is making rounds. Anyway, what is song about that uses all rhymes and alphabets only chandrabose or Meher Ramesh should know. Tried to imitate Gangham style in between or want to remind this has something in the movie? Mass song that goes so so. Simha I thought was limited to stage shows, but made to movie somehow. Not sure how. Hemachandra lost identity in the crowd. Anyway an energetic song, standing out of the rest of the songs. Only relief in the album.

06 – Revenge of Shadow (Instrumental)

Revenge of Shadow, the label is looking fancy. Why the slow down while signing "Ganesha" something the movie should tell us. Yamudu, Narudu, Sivudu, then Ganesh and the revenge of Shadow ends and is the album.

Pick(s) of the album: Aythalaka and then I would say revenge of the shadow as it was the shortest.

Thaman should have completed winding up composing songs for this movie in a day, there by saving lot of time to Producer and Director. He is exactly where he started his career. He didnt move a single inch and is not getting things right even after doing so many films. But he is the leading music director in Telugu industry, which shows the sad state of Industry and audience eventually loosing to know what good music is all about.

Good luck and God Bless Telugu Films Music !!!
 

Sri Jagadguru Adi Sankaracharya - Audio Review

Movie: Sri Jagadguru Adi Sankaracharya ( 2013 )

Music: Naga Srivatsa

Director: JK Bharavi

Producer: Jayasri Devi

Cast: Kowsic, Nagarjuna, Mohan Babu, Sri Hari, Kamalini Mukherjee

Lyrics: JK Bharavi

Jagadguru Adi Sankaracharya is the foremost Guru of the world who propagated Advaita Siddanta. During his short life of 32 years, the achievement He made leaves people awe struck. His knowledge is immense and his works are unlimited as it takes many lives for a normal person to understand his works at basic level, imagine how he wrote those many commentaries, stotrams, slokas and many more.  It is said he completely mastered all Vedas at the age of 8. His childhood is fascinating as is his life. Born in Kerala to Sivaguru and Aryamba, lost his father at an early age. It is believed that when his parents didnt have kids, they did pooja and Lord Siva appeared in dreams and asked them whether they would need many children with no or little intelligence yet long life or one children having short age but will be a great philosopher. Sankara was born when his parents chose later. He forced his mother to let him to become sanyasi when he went to river and crocodile will not leave until he takes sanyasam. His another story about kanakadhara Stotram where a lady who has nothing at home to offer Sankara other than amla fruit. Then impressed Sankara sings Kanakadhara Stotram and a rain of golden amla fruits astonishes the lady. Sankara wanders whole India widely spreading Advaitam, completing his works as per his Guru's orders and eventually establishes four maths.

It is very difficult understand his life and works, then to make it in a presentable mode to whom it will be very difficult to understand and who expect commerical elements in a movie. An earlier attempt to convert His life into movie critically successful, but it didnt reach audience as it was made in Sanskrit. Another attempt now to make this movie is commendable, but the success of the movie depends on how many are inspired by Adi Sankara rather than the money it collects. Such is the greatness of the works of Adi Sankaracharya.

Latest attempt by JK Bharavi who is the main person behind Raghavendra Rao/Nagarujana devotional movies creates lots of doubts as the earlier movies lacks spiritual depth. He is known in the industry who possesses the capability for making such movies. But this movie will be extremely challenge for him as it is not easy as Sankara to write in simple slokas with immense meaning. The adding of commercial elements as seen in posters, trailers doesnt show any where close to the initially made movie in Sanskrit with Sarvadaman Banerjee as Sankara was immense drama got many national awards, was critically acclaimed.

Then comes the Music Director Naga Srivatsa and singers. Didnt hear before about Naga Srivatsa. Its my fault that I am not hearing much music lately, we all know the reason. Have to listen to the album to see how he did. Lets see how the songs are.

1. Nithya Anandakaree

S.P. Balasubramanyam

This song is taken various stotrams, slokas written by Sri Adi Sankaracharya. 

Starts with first stanza Nithyaananda kari,Varaa abhya karee,Soundarya rathnaakaree, which is from Sri Annapurna Ashtakam. Sri Annapurna Ashtakam is written by Adi Shankaracharya to praise and invoke the grace of Mother Goddess Annapurneswari who is the presiding deity of Varanasi ( kasi puradheswari). She is the Mother who graces food to everybody.

Then jaagratswapna sushuptishu sphutataraa yaa sam vidujjrimbhatae is from Manisha Panchakam, again the first verse. It is said that Manisha Panchakam brings in front the complete essence of Advaita Vedanta. Sankaracharya wrote Manisha panchakam is a strange way. When he was traveling to temple after taking bath, a chandala ( low caste ) with four dogs comes on his way, then as per those days custom, the chandala needs to give way, but he asks who should give the way, his body or his atma, then Sankara realizes he is none other than Lord Siva and answers HIM in these panchakam ( five versus). 

Then it starts with versus Nama Sivabhyam, Nava Youvanabhyam, Paraspara slishta Vapurtharabhyam from Uma Maheswara stotram. The significance of this stotram is that Sankara praises both Uma and Maheswara at the same time. 

Then punarasadange puNyatarange jaya jaya jaahnavee karuNaapaange is from Sri Ganga Stotram. Written to praise Ganga purifies who read this as Ganga does to her devotees. 

Then comes the verse from Viveka Choodamani Jaati neeti kula gotra dooranam Naama roopa guna dosha varjitam. Viveka Choodamani is considered as one of the greatest work of Sankaracharya, which tells Vivekam is the jewel and main weapon in attaining moksha. This consists of 580 verses in Sanskrit.

Then comes the famous Nirvana Shatakam. Aham Nirvi Kalpi Nirakara Roopi, Vibhuthwascha Sarvathra Sarvendriyanaam. This is the last verse in Nirvana Shatakam which each verse ends in Shivoham, meaning I am shiva. The background of this is fantastic will give goose bumps to any person. Adi Sankara is in search of his Guru wandering then a sage comes and asks Sankara, "Who are you?". Sankara answers in 6 slokas, which is Nirvana Shatakam or Atma Shatakam.

Then the verse from Kasi Panchakam, Kasyam hi kasathe kasi kasee srava prakasika 3rd of the famous 5 slokas where Sankara says he himself is Kasi. Kasi (Varanasi) is known as a place where one attains moksha instantly upon death. Kasi has such a place where people go to seek liberation. However Sankaracharya says in his own way about Kasi.

4:35 minutes of songs touches various works that Adi Sankaracharya has done in his 32 year old life. His life is so fascinating for any person who is trying to follow the spiritual path. His works are great inspiration for attaining knowledge, the path and thereby helping to achieve the final goal/destination. 

Bringing various works into one single song is like bringing sea content into a glass. This song should for who has never heard or read Adi Sankara, will be an inspiration forget about the tune. If not SPB like singer, the current generation wouldnt have even pronounced properly these slokas. They would have easily changed the words and there by the meaning. When Sankara brings great philosophy into a 5-6 stanzas, each word is equally powerful. Thank God that SPB is alive to sing this song for us. 

When we get such a beautiful work togather, all music director has to do is to carry the essence of each stotram or sloka thru his music. However this is just rendering of these with some background music. There is no mood or emotion to the song. However in such a magnanimity of the verses, nothing other than Sankara come into mind, thanks to SPB for his rendition.

2. Laxmi Nrusimhaa

Tippu

Tippu makes a point that the current age singers can only sing simple commercial songs, They are not good if any there is a deviation. A little high pitch, they strain, Gamakas are not easy, Tough words gone case. This song reminds Keeravani's earlier devotional movie. Again why Naga made this song as  sad sounding not sure. Tippu added extra feeling to the song, not sure why. Karavalamba stotram is made most unpleasant to hear. 

3. Srikrishnaha

S.P. Balasubramanyam, Mani Nagaraj

One more song on Krishna. Appears a pathos, not sure why. Seems like the story is amended as Bharavi liked. This songs goes clue less the way it sang trying to find context for this song. SPB doesnt have much to sing. A short song goes fine.

4. Soundarya Lahari

Ranjith

Soundarya lahari has such a divinity that one can hear from the start of the song Janani Janani from Thai moogambika composed by Ilayaraja. In that Siva saktya yukto yadi bhavati is from Soundarya Lahari written by Adi sankaracharya. This has immense power and meaning. JK Bharavi should have concentrated on this to get people aware of  the value of Soundarya lahari.

5. Laxmi Padmaalaya

Sharath Santoshi

Why one more sad singing? or singer voice sounds like that? There is no need for the singer to strain that much. Devotion is pleasant and the singing should be. 

6. Chiranjeevi About Jagadguru Aadi Shankara

Chiranjeevi

Chiranjeevi commentary, voice over will add more value thru his popularity, However it is obvious that he lost touch with film industry. India is  "కర్మ భూమి", not "ఖర్మ భూమి". Except that his small sweet commentary is nice.

7. Bhrama Ani Telusu

Sri Rama Chandra

Is this song for Nag who is casted as chandala, a song before he meets Sankara? If that is true, I Bharavi's imagination is more commercial. Srirama Chandra was funny at few places the way he sang. Nag Srivatsa made this as simple as possible, but need to see the context of the song with respect to the movie. 

8. Sivoham

Hari Haran

Nirvana Shatakam or Atma Shatakam gives immense pleasure and almost leads to trans if heard continuously in total peace. This is totally messed up by both Hari haran, he sounded foreign singing this song and Naga Srivatsa as didnt get this right. If anyone heard this as bhajan in any spirutual organization, or even here then they would get irritated with this tuning and singing. 

8. Om Namashivaaya

Karthik

Adi sankaracharya movie having a commercial song? Not sure whats in JK bharavi's mind. He is for sure behind something. Karthik might have been wondering which movie he is singing. Not sure from where JK Bharavi's imagination he got this song from. Difficult to understand unless seen in the movie.

9. Akhila Charachara

Unni Krishnan

Again JK Bharavi might have adapted this song and the lyrics shows the same. Unni krishnan shows how classical singer can make a difference. Song on Krishna, so flute has to be abundantly used and is used. Song is decent. Tune is as per standard template. 

10. Omkaram

Shankar Mahadevan

The moment Shankar Mahadevan sang so called breathless, he is know for singing all such kind of songs. No matter how proclaimed great singer he is his singing doesnt suit sanskrit/Telugu songs. He faults in pronounciation, his extra gamakas sometimes sound sarcastic doesn't sound native. I think the lyrics are by JK Bharavi, not sure about this as this song is complex in structure and Sankar Mahadeven took away the song from listeners by his singing and Bharavi complicates further.

11. Veda Thandavam

Why there is a hurry to sing. Veda's Thandavam doesnt need to be running away, I really doubt the concept of the movie maker. 

12. Bhaja Govindam

Madhu Bala Krishnan

Bharavi might have used MS Subbulakshmi's version as it is. These kind of movies cannot have pronounciation mistakes. Madhu bala krishnan did his best but couldnt finally present a better song. JK Bharavi added his own lyrics to Bhajagovindam. Whatever, its his movie, he can do whatever he wants. Naga Srivatsa deviated here and there just to make sure people are aware that he had composed this song.

13. Shankara Vijayam

1:40 may be a back ground music when Adi Sankara keeps winning the debates with other scholars and while he is traveling entire India one after other place. Nothing much to say about this song.

14. Yevadu Neevu

S.P. Balasubramanyam

Looks like a song for a horror movie. The chorus creates fear. Why so fierce questioning not sure. JK Bharavi is upto something for sure. Either he is completely lost in commercializing the movie or super brilliant. The tune doesnt have any pleasantness, Not sure where in the movie the occasion for this song comes? Is it when the debate is going on between Sankaracharya and other spiritual gurus or when Sankara is going in search of his own Guru or when a sage questions who are you to Sankaracharya, thats when he wrote nirvanashatakam?

Pick(s) of the Album: Nityanandakari

Any sincere attempt to bring life of great Guru's of India infront of everyone is commendable. However it is very important that the attempt has to be very sincere in undertanding the Guru and telling exactly the same what is told by Him. Telling in a way to reach masses is one side and telling the right way is another side. This is a very thin layer of sword if director makes any mistake, it will be total mess. The songs prove that director had been very liberal in making the movie, the songs brings in lot of doubt that whether JK Bharavi got the Sankara tatva right or he tried to commerialize too much to reach audience? Only movie can prove other wise.