BAIJU BAWRA: 64 YEARS OLD
A musical revenge (Baiju Bawra)
Though some of the scenes are incredible, the film lives up because of the music. Naushad's score is sheer bliss for the senses and so are the renditions by Mohd Rafi, Mangeshkar, Ustad Amir Khan and D V Paluskar. Man tarpat hari darshan ko aaj and Ae duniya ke rakhwaley are absolutely harmonious. The last duet Aaj gawat man mero is entertaining not only because you get to hear such great music but also you get to see the sheer power of both Tansen and Baiju. Deers run to Akbar's court while the maestros are at it!!
But my personal favourite is Mohe bhool gaye sawariya. Couple Meena Kumari's expressions (apart from her beautiful visage), Mangeshkar's awesome singing, the tearful situation, Naushad's exemplary music and Shakeel Badayuni's lyrics and you have a winner.
The gradual transformation of Gauri's persona is awesome. From a cheerful and teasing lover, she changes into a sorrowful sweetheart. Meena Kumari's histrionics are noteworthy (no wonder she became a superstar after this film and even bagged her first Filmfare Best Actress trophy for this one). Though Bharat Bhushan overdoes his sad act sometimes, he was not bad overall. And, he is really the best bet for these sad musician parts. A special word for the character Ghasit Khan, played by the entertaining Radhakishan. He sure knows how to tickle your ribs.
Given such good acting and such superlative music, I'd loved it if the ending was happy. I agree that the director deviated from reality and put his directorial license to full use, but wouldn't it be great if he showed Baiju uniting with Gauri and going onto live happily ever after? And singing so many more superb songs...