Even in a cabaret there can be so much divinity: Shreya Ghoshal on Lata’s Jaan-E-Jaan

At a recent concert in Mumbai, singer Shreya Ghoshal offered audiences not just music but insights into the legacy of the legendary Lata Mangeshkar — from the singer’s rare venture into cabaret to the fading culture of full orchestras in modern film music.Talking about the classic cabaret number Aa Jaan-E-Jaan from the 1969 film Inteqam, Shreya shared an interesting perspective on the song’s unique place in Lata Mangeshkar’s vast repertoire. The iconic track, picturised on Helen, was composed by Laxmikant–Pyarelal with lyrics by Rajendra Krishan. “This was probably the only cabaret that Lata Didi ever sang. If you listen to this song, you will realise that even in a cabaret there can be so much divinity and spirituality — itna apnapan aur pyaar ho sakta hai — even though it is a seduction song,” she said.Her remark highlighted the distinctive quality that made Lata Mangeshkar’s voice transcend genres — even a nightclub-style song carried a sense of grace and emotional depth.The evening also recreated the musical richness of the golden era of Hindi cinema. More than 40 musicians performed live on stage, including members of the UAE Philharmonic Orchestra and a choir, reviving the grand orchestral arrangements that once defined film music recordings.Reflecting on the experience, Shreya pointed out how rare such live musical collaborations have become today. “Aaj lag raha hai jaise Lata Didi ke recording studio mein sab kuch live hota tha, waise hi hum conductor ke haath pe tike hue hain,” she said. “I feel all this energy is very much missing in today’s film music.”