Ayushmann Khurrana-starrer Badhaai Ho might have all the makings of a quirky, slice-of-life comedy, but Rochak Kohli's composition for 'Nain Na Jodeen' has an undercurrent of heavy, heartbreaking emotion running through it. Sung by Khurrana, Neha Kakkar and Kohli himself, the song is a lovely take on heartbreak and longing.
The visuals of the song suggest that it takes place during a time of difficulties in the relationship between Khurrana and Sanya Malhotra's characters. From being inseparable to becoming uncomfortable in each others' presence, trying to avoid each other, the relationship is going through a downward spiral. The visuals offer a contrast to the intimacy and the distance, as well as the longing that continues to exist underneath the struggle. Through simple motifs like waiting for a message, or a notification on Facebook, the couple wait for the other to answer while holding on to their own anger.
The song, composed by Kohli, is lovely, tempered with emotion and captures the slow, painful existence of separated lovers. The lyrics by Kumaar play to the same theme, and are wonderfully nuanced with a mix of Hindi and colloquial Punjabi.
The song captures you from its first verse. Khurrana is quite an able singer, and proves it once again with a mature rendition of the composition. While Kakkar has little space to explore, her voice acts as a wonderful interlude to the melody.
Kohli infuses simple beats, combined with the sarangi, rabab playing a eclectic touch from the background. It adds to the soulful nature of the music.
Badhaai Ho is directed by Amit Sharma, and will be released on 19 October.
Watch the song below: