“We believe in the power of live music” – Lahu- Madhav
Having noticed many music director duos in Marathi and Hindi films, there is one more pair, which is emerging as the most promising music duo, in Marathi and Hindi films. Lahu Panchal and Madhav Ajgaonkar have today established themselves, with their quality music. Their understanding between each other is perfect, for every project. And, the bond of their friendship, exists from their college days, when they first met in Ramnarain Ruia College, which is a hub for cultural activities, besides offering good education.
Those days, Madhav used to play the synthesizer and Lahu was a good singer. After finishing college, Madhav pursued his interest in composing, while Lahu continued with singing and the duo toured all over the world. Maintaining good rapport between them, they had several music sittings for rehearsals. It was hard work, with lots of patience.
Finally, in the year 2012, both decided to introduce themselves as music composer Lahu-Madhav pair and did many albums in Hindi and Marathi. And, their hard work paid dividends, when they first got an opportunity to compose music for Hindi film Rajdhani Express, followed by Marathi films like ‘Dhyaas’ , ‘Yala Jeevan Aise Naav’ and now forthcoming Marathi film ‘Athang’, from which they have great hopes.
When Marathi Movie World spoke to them, Madhav who was found more vocal, between the two, said, “Undoubtedly, the most memorable moment for us, was our debut in Marathi films, with our very first song sung by the legendary singer Asha Bhosle. That first Marathi album for the film ‘Dhyaas’, also had three more songs, sung by Shaan, Kunal Ganjawala and Sonu Nigam. It was an honour, when Ashatai herself patted our backs, saying that she hardly got an opportunity to sing such a beautiful song “Tujhya ni Majhya…”, written by Mandar Cholkar. The best compliment we received, was from legendary Marathi composer Yashwant Deo, who also appreciated this song.”
Later, talking about their debut Hindi film ‘Rajdhani Express’, he added, “ There was a song “Koi Umeed bar Nahi aati”, we composed, was based on the poetry of the legendary poet Mirza Ghalib and we presented it in two different styles. First, it was in the contemporary western style with western flute and distortion guitars, sung by Hitesh Prasad and the second one was a completely traditional Indian baithak kind of gazal, rendered by Shahid Maliya.”
But, when we actually listended to Lahu Madhav’s music, we found it, an amalgamation of electronic and live music. When asked to comment on it, both said together, “We believe in the power of live music and insist on using live instruments.” It is for this reason, their music breathes and sounds so warm, with every new composition.
Madhav in particular, who also gives background music, using his name as Madhav Vijay, has scored background music for about 25 films, prominent among them are, ‘Investment’( which won the national award), ‘Nirmalya’, ‘Lagna Pahava karun’, ‘Lonavla Bypass’, ‘Antardah’, ‘Bavare Prem hey’ award winning film ‘Jana Gana Mana’,’Sugar Salt Aani Prem’,’Welcome Zindagi’ and ‘Dhinchak Enterprise’’ while ‘Athaang’ is an upcoming film.
Best thing about them is that they have a big collection of songs, which comes to their advantage. Yet, both of them have maintained a very low profile, in this Publicity crazy film industry.