Qaidi Band song: 'I am India' is a surprisingly underwhelming patriotic anthem by Amit Trivedi

The first song from Aadar Jain and Anya Singh's big debut, Qaidi Band is out. The film, directed by Habib Faisal, and produced by Yash Raj Films, tells the story of a rock band formed by jail inmates. Considering the timing of its release, the film's first song has been built around the patriotic theme of India's diversity and cultural variances.

With India's 70th Independence Day around the corner, it seems rather apt that the makers of the film chose to open with a very patriotic themed song. The video of the song shows the inmates putting up a performance for the Independence Day celebrations, with several politicians and police officers present. While the song itself has some high tempo, and rhythms, the performance on screen feels a little underwhelming. The lack of energy in the main leads shows the flaws in this opening song. The choreography is flowing, but lacks spark.

Composed by Amit Trivedi, the song combines heavy rhythmic beats with some eclectic lyrics by Habib Faisal. While the lyrics focus on the many different qualities of India's culture, music, food, and dance, the composition itself feels a little ordinary. This is surprising, considering Trivedi is one of the more avant garde and innovative composers of the current industry scene. There is nothing new in the lyrics either, and it repeats several metaphors that have been used before in many songs. This only adds to the ordinariness of the opening composition.

Qaidi Band is directed by Habib Faisal, and stars Aadar Jain and Anya Singh in the lead roles. The film is set to be released in theatres on 25 August.