In a world where melodies often fade into the background as quickly as they emerge, the song ‘Zehnaseeb’ from the 2014 Bollywood hit Hasee Toh Phasee has proven its staying power. A fresh iteration of this musical gem has recently been unveiled, drawing fervent admiration from fans and critics alike. In a scene reminiscent of a seamless orchestrated performance, composer and singer Shekhar Ravjiani, producer Karan Kanchan, and singer Kasyap coordinated a candid Zoom video call from Mumbai. Here, framed snugly within their digital windows, they offered a glimpse into their collaborative journey and the impetus for reimagining this sentimental track.
Celebrating a quarter-century in the industry, Shekhar Ravjiani reflects on his odyssey from a hopeful debut in Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi (1999) to his latest contribution to Fighter (2024). ‘Zehnaseeb’ holds a special place in his heart, and he remarks on its remarkable longevity. “It’s phenomenal how the song has blossomed over a decade,” states Ravjiani. “It’s a testament to the song’s spirit that its adoration amplifies with time. I’m honored to have Karan and Kasyap reenvision it in a manner that befits its enduring charm and commemorates its 10th anniversary.”
Karan Kanchan, a name synonymous with trap music and diverse sonic palettes, recalls how ‘Zehnaseeb’ was a part of his aural backdrop during his formative years. Sony Music’s proposition to rework it was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up. “Taking on a beloved classic is a daunting task,” expresses Kanchan. “The pressure to do it justice was palpable, but Shekhar’s guidance was a beacon through my trepidation. His approval was paramount, and once I had that, I knew we’d achieved something special.” Karan’s modern touches are evident in the reimagination—think sarangi strains woven into a tapestry of avant-garde rhythms, creating a broader and more enveloping sound experience.
Hyderabad-based Kasyap revels in nostalgia as he recounts how ‘Zehnaseeb’ influenced his early musical exploits, resonating within him as a young fan following Hasee Tho Phasee’s release. Fast forward, and he’s now collaborating with Ravjiani for the third time. “Singing alongside a legend, feeling the weight of expectation—it was both daunting and invigorating,” Kasyap admits. “Navigating through the process with Shekhar’s wise counsel and Karan’s innovative production made the experience nothing short of magical.” The pop vocalist, who just debuted his Telugu indie single ‘Theliyade’, views his journey as an artful ascendancy bolstered by relentless practice and an exploration of eclectic genres.
For Shekhar, this reworked ‘Zehnaseeb’ is more than a mere remix; it is a homage, a beacon for its legacy, and a bridge to introduce its melody to new listeners who might forge their own connections with its soulful tune. Ravjiani muses, “Should Hasee Tho Phasee have been conceived today, I envision this iteration would stand as the defining one.” Distancing himself from the regular churn of remixes, Shekhar believes the magic lies in respecting the original composition while curating a version that is innovative yet maintains the essence that endeared it to hearts across boundaries.
The connection of music and memory is potent, and Ravjiani knows this intimately, having performed ‘Zehnaseeb’ live to adoring crowds repeatedly. It is in witnessing this ongoing embrace of the song that motivates his future ventures, including nurturing new talents through his record label, Garuudaa Music. With various projects in the pipeline, Shekhar envisions a musical landscape rich with creativity and inclusivity. He promises more collaborations with Kasyap and Karan, signaling a continued commitment to the evolution and diversification of Indian music.
The unveiling of the reimagined ‘Zehnaseeb’ marks not just a milestone but a rekindling of a melody that transcends time, bridging the past and present, and harmonizing a shared human experience. As this new version reverberates through the speakers, it reaffirms the immortal nature of a true musical treasure.
