Spiritual songs with a Sufi touch have always been used at moments of a character's redemption or conflict. In the upcoming Rajshri production, Hum Chaar, it is Atif Aslam who delivers the plea to save a friendship that is being torn apart. 'Auliya' is a smooth and sensitive song that hits the right chords, but feels all too familiar due to the voice of Atif Aslam.
The song's video suggests the crisis between the four friends played by Prit Kamani, Anshuman Malhotra, Simran Sharma and Tushar Pandey. The friends are trying to salvage the wrong they have done to Simran's character. But she is in no mood to relent. The visuals also touch upon Simran's own struggles that she seems to be hiding from her friends, with her nights in the hospital suggesting a key role in the drama.
Sung by Atif Aslam, the song is a serene composition that builds on its Sufi lyrics. Written by Shabbir Ahmed, the lyrics seek out a guide (auliya) to offer them sanctuary and a way out. With a mix of Punjabi and Hindi words, the song is melodious, but simplistic in its message.
Composed by Vipin Pahwa, the structure of the composition starts from simple guitar chords to develop into a more complex orchestration. With the percussion and sarangi providing a backdrop to Atif Aslam's vocals, the song has enough melody to keep you tuned in.
It is Aslam's vocals that take precedence over other embellishments. The singer delivers another wonderful addition to his discography. He manages to give emotion to the simplest verses and catches your attention.
Hum Chaar is directed by Abhishek Dixit, and will release on 15 February.