'Gangubai Kathiawadi': 5 reasons why you should listen to 'Dholida'
The makers of Gangubai Kathiawadi released its first song on Thursday. Titled Dholida, the track is trending on YouTube and has received over 39 lakh views within eight hours of its launch. The number has every element of a typical Garba song and is tailor-made for fans of that dance form. Here, we list five reasons why you should not skip this song.
The sets are grand, Bhansali-style
As is seen in any Sanjay Leela Bhansali-directed film, a huge set welcomes you in Dholida, too. We understand that it's Navratri and people are performing Garba on the streets of Kamathipura, the red-light district of Mumbai. The lights illuminate every structure featured in the song, which gives it a feel of a carnival. The production designer deserves a pat for their meticulous research.
Kruti Mahesh's choreography is electrifying
Since this is a preview, the video doesn't give out its entire content. It rather stays focused on lead actor Alia Bhatt. She dons a white saree and performs each step with dedication. Kruti Mahesh's choreography is in sync with the theme but the steps look challenging. Notably, she had won a National Film Award for Ghoomar (Padmaavat), so the expectations are high.
Portrayal is dignified, cinematographer captures best shots
Bhatt plays Gangubai, the madame of a brothel. She and the dancers around her are sex workers, and hence, the portrayal ran the risk of looking vulgar. However, the dancers are portrayed in a dignified manner, and the filmmakers deserve our thanks for being sensitive. The cinematography helmed by Sudeep Chatterjee also adds to the charm of the video.
You can check out the song here
Bhansali's ethnic composition feels personal
Since 2010, Bhansali has been giving us melody-rich songs, thanks to his usage of different types of musical instruments. The best part of his style of composition is the natural inclination he has toward Indian instruments. In this song, guitars, violins, shehnai, bhungal, kansi joda, and manjira have been used. Moreover, the Garba flavor of Dholida makes it perfect for the Navratri playlist.
Combination of Hindi, Gujarati lyrics gives authentic charm
Janhvi Shrimankar and Shail Hada's (who has voiced Khalibali and Holi in Padmaavat) vocals sit perfectly in Dholida. The combination of Kumaar's Hindi lyrics with Bhojak Ashok "Anjam"s Gujarati words gives the song an authentic feel. Hada's musical arrangement amplifies the glorious aura of the song. Though the number is remarkable, it has a resemblance to Nagada Sang Dhol from Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela.