The eleventh and final track from Coke Studio Season 15, ‘Mehman’, falls in this category....
music
Music and songs have the tendency to leave a unique impact, each resonating in its own way. Some invigorate us with their upbeat rhythms, while others inspire reflection with poignant lyrics. Then, there are the soulful songs that stand apart, reaching deep into our hearts. These songs, with their heartfelt melodies and emotional depth, offer a profound connection, touching our very souls and providing solace and understanding.
The eleventh and final track from Coke Studio Season 15, ‘Mehman’, falls in this category. A soulful collaboration featuring Zeb Bangash, Noorima Rehan, and Nizam ud Din Torwali. ‘Mehman’ meaning ‘guest’ explores the themes of hospitality and divine guidance through its lyrical depth and musical richness.
Produced by Abdullah Siddiqui and Xulfi, and directed by Awais Gohar with art direction by Hashim Ali, the music video for the song takes viewers on a journey through a visually stunning world, evoking the lush beauty of the Garden of Eden alongside moss-covered ruins.
Nizam ud Din Torwali, from the remote village of Taip Se Ban in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, opens the song with verses in Torwali, an ancient language unique to his community of about 150,000 people. His mesmerising tone captures the essence of his culture, serenading the skies with heartfelt verses, reflecting the unique traditions and distinctive way of life of his people nestled in the mountains of Swat District, home to the ancient Gandhara civilisation.
Zeb Bangash, a celebrated singer-songwriter from Lahore with familial roots in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, responds with wisdom and reassurance. Known for her ability to blend contemporary and traditional music seamlessly, she sings, “Tera ehsas hai, teri yaad nahin | Iss ghata ki tarah mehman hoon | Tera samaan nahin” (I feel you, even as memory fades | Like this breeze, I am but a visitor | Not your burden). Her fluency in multiple languages and eclectic style shine through as she urges listeners to follow their true path, reminding them that the world is a reflection of the stars above.
Noorima Rehan, a young prodigy from Ghulkin, Gojal Hunza, bridges the vocals of Nizam and Zeb with her poignant lines: “Beete hoye ansuon ki yaaryaan samo ke | Ajab kahanyon ki mein humrah” (Embracing the friendship that outlives the tears | I join a fellowship of travelers carrying tall tales). Her voice, embodying the serene beuaty of her homeland and blending traditional Wakhi soul with contemporary Pakistani pop, adds a mystical touch to the song. Besides her musical talent, Noorima is also a professional ice hockey player, yet it is through music that she finds true expression.
As the melody progresses, Zeb’s harmonised vocals deliver a hopeful message and the song concludes with a symbolic return to Eden, representing an eternal spring for those who journey through life with an open heart.
The song is available to stream across various platforms.
- You! desk
