Analysis of: Aa Gaya Madari Leke Jadu Ki Patari
Singer: Mohammad Rafi | Film: Zameen Ke Taare (1960)
Lyrics: Anand Bakshi | Music: S. Mohinder
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“Aa Gaya Madari Le Ke Jadu Ki Patari” is a lively and playful song from the film Zameen Ke Taare (1960). The song captures the essence of a street performer (madari) who arrives with his magical box (jadu ki pitari) and entertains the crowd with his tricks and antics. The lyrics, written by Anand Bakshi, are filled with humor, wit, and a touch of nostalgia, while the music, composed by S. Mohinder, is upbeat and rhythmic. Mohammad Rafi’s energetic and charismatic rendition brings the character of the madari to life, making the song a delightful and memorable experience.
The Lyrics:
The song revolves around the arrival of a madari (street performer) who brings his magical box of tricks to entertain the people. The lyrics describe the performer’s confidence, his popularity across Mumbai, and the playful interactions with his monkey (jamura). The song also humorously references the changing times, with the monkey performing “rock and roll,” symbolizing the influence of modernity. The lyrics are light-hearted and filled with vivid imagery, capturing the joy and excitement of street performances.
The Lyricist:
Anand Bakshi was one of the most celebrated lyricists in Hindi cinema, known for his ability to craft simple yet impactful lyrics. In this song, he uses playful and colloquial language to create a sense of fun and nostalgia. His lyrics reflect the charm of street performances and the performer’s pride in his craft, making the song relatable and enjoyable.
The Musical Composition:
S. Mohinder, the music director, was known for his ability to create melodies that perfectly complemented the mood of the lyrics. In “Aa Gaya Madari Le Ke Jadu Ki Patari,” he uses a lively and rhythmic orchestration, with traditional instruments like the dhol and dugdugi (small drum) to create a festive and energetic atmosphere. The melody is catchy and upbeat, reflecting the playful and entertaining nature of the song.
The Singer:
Mohammad Rafi, one of the greatest playback singers in Indian cinema, delivers a vibrant and energetic performance in this song. His voice carries a blend of playfulness and charm, perfectly capturing the character of the madari. Rafi’s ability to convey humor and excitement through his singing elevates the song to a delightful experience.
Let’s explore the line-by-line analysis of the emotions expressed in the singing.
Initial Stanza:
Aa gaya madari le ke jadu ki patari (The street performer has arrived with his magical box): Rafi begins with a loud, boisterous, and enthusiastic tone, announcing the arrival of the madari. His voice is full of energy and excitement, immediately drawing the listener into the scene. The way he elongates “jadu ki patari” (magical box) suggests a sense of wonder and anticipation.
Oye aa gaya madari le ke jadu ki pitari (Hey, the street performer has arrived with his magical box): Rafi’s tone becomes even more energetic, as if calling out to the crowd to gather and watch the show. The repetition adds a sense of urgency and excitement.
Khel tamasha kare jamura, dekhe duniya saari (The monkey performs tricks, and the whole world watches): Rafi’s tone is playful and animated, reflecting the joy and entertainment provided by the monkey. The way he stresses “dekhe duniya saari” (the whole world watches) conveys a sense of pride and accomplishment.
O saba oye wah wah oye balle (O breeze, o wow, o bravo!): These exclamations add to the festive and celebratory atmosphere. Rafi’s tone is celebratory and interactive, as if mimicking the audience’s reactions. The exclamations add a festive and lively touch to the song.
1st Stanza:
Dadar Worli Churchgate Bori Bandar Chembur (From Dadar to Worli to Churchgate, Bori Bandar to Chembur): Rafi’s voice is confident and proud, reflecting the madari’s popularity across Mumbai. The way he sings the names of the localities suggests a sense of familiarity and connection with the audience.
Dekho mera naam hai saari Bombay mein mashoor (Look, my name is famous all over Bombay): Rafi’s tone is boastful and self-assured, conveying the madari’s pride in his fame. The way he stresses “saari Bombay mein mashoor” (famous all over Bombay) adds a touch of humor and charm.
Jaane Raj Kapoor mujhe, aur jaane Meena Kumari (Raj Kapoor knows me, and so does Meena Kumari): Rafi’s voice is playful and cheeky, reflecting the madari’s confidence and wit. The way he sings the names of the famous actors adds a humorous and relatable touch.
Ke topi chamcha o sandal le ke aa gaya madari ((With his hat, spoon, and sandals, the street performer has arrived): Rafi’s tone is lively and descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the madari’s appearance. The way he stresses “aa gaya madari” (the street performer has arrived) conveys a sense of excitement and anticipation.
2nd Stanza:
Dug dug baje dugdugi meri, dam dam baje dhole (My small drum goes dug dug, and the big drum goes dam dam): Rafi’s voice is rhythmic and energetic, reflecting the lively beats of the drums. The way he mimics the sounds of the drums adds a playful and entertaining touch.
Bandar mera karta hai ji, dekho rock and roll (My monkey performs rock and roll): Rafi’s tone is humorous and modern, reflecting the influence of contemporary trends. The way he stresses “rock and roll” adds a touch of novelty and fun.
Naye zamane ki iski bhi, dekho lagi ye bimari (Even my monkey has caught the disease of the new era): Rafi’s voice is playful and ironic, reflecting the madari’s humorous take on modernity. The way he stresses “naye zamane ki bimari” (disease of the new era) adds a touch of wit and satire.
Ho hatke ho bachke (Step aside, be careful!): Rafi’s tone is cautionary yet playful, as if warning the audience to make way for the performance. The phrase adds a sense of drama and anticipation.
Aa gaya madari le ke jadu ki patari (The street performer has arrived with his magical box): Rafi’s voice becomes more emphatic and joyful with each repetition. The refrain serves as a reminder of the madari’s arrival and the excitement it brings, and Rafi’s delivery conveys a sense of celebration and fun.
In conclusion, “Aa Gaya Madari Le Ke Jadu Ki Patari” is a delightful and playful song that captures the charm of street performances and the joy they bring to people’s lives. Anand Bakshi’s witty lyrics, S. Mohinder’s lively composition, and Mohammad Rafi’s energetic rendition come together to create a song that resonates with listeners of all ages. Rafi’s ability to convey humor, excitement, and charm through his singing makes this song a timeless classic. It is a reminder of the simple joys of life and the magic of entertainment.
Our valued non-Hindi readers are advised to go through the translation for better understanding of the song.
~ Balwant S. Wadhwani