Album: Jodhaa Akbar- OST
Artistes: Various
Available on: Sony BMG

A R Rahman's creations call for music lovers to shut all other sounds out and give the magical tracks at hand a listen with utmost concentration, something that is true of the OST of Ashutosh Gowarikar's Jodhaa Akbar as well. The charm of the Mughal era during the glorious reign of Akbar is captured perfectly by the melody genius.

Khwaja mere khwaja crooned by Rahman himself is a racy song remembering sacred Sufi saints. Javed Ali's refreshing voice is heard in Jashn-E-Bahaara. This number is no doubt romantic in its sound but not without a hint of melancholy. The context becomes clear on watching the film. In Lamhon Ke Daaman Mein (Sonu Nigam and Madhushree) is more the conventional romantic duet on the union of two lovers. Azeem-O-Shaan Shahenshah sung by a chorus is a loud track (heavy on trumpets and drums) celebrating the greatness of Akbar.

"Ashu" makes sure to include a religious track in all his films (O Paalan Haare- Lagaan, Pal pal hai- Swades). This time we get Man Mohanaa, a prayer to Lord Krishna, sung by Bela Shende. Also included are instrumental versions of Jashn-E-Bahaara and Khwaja mere khwaja.

The Mughal angle bestows on Javed Akhtar the licence to dole out the best of Urdu lyrics in all the tracks barring Man Mohanaa. And the beauty of the tongue has been brought out well.

The music of Jodhaa Akbar is well worth your time. Sit back at the end of a long day and soak in its magic.