KHAIRIYAT – Arijit Singh
The Bollywood film Chhichhore (2019) stands as a significant piece in contemporary Indian cinema, not only for its touching narrative but also for its memorable soundtrack. Among the many gems in the movie’s musical repertoire, the song “Khairiyat” (Bonus Track) holds a special place in the hearts of listeners. Sung by the immensely talented Arijit Singh, with music composed by Pritam and lyrics penned by Amitabh Bhattacharya, this track is an emotional rollercoaster that perfectly complements the film’s theme of nostalgia, love, and the passage of time.
The Context of “Khairiyat” in Chhichhore
Chhichhore, directed by Nitesh Tiwari, tells the story of a group of friends who reconnect after many years when one of their own faces a life-altering crisis. The film weaves together their college memories and the present-day struggles they endure as adults. It beautifully captures the essence of friendship, the pressures of academic success, and the importance of resilience.
“Khairiyat” plays a crucial role in this narrative. The song is introduced during moments of reflection and introspection, where the characters reminisce about their past, their lost loves, and the choices that shaped their lives. The bonus track version of “Khairiyat” is particularly poignant, offering a more intimate and stripped-down rendition that emphasizes the raw emotions at the heart of the story.
Arijit Singh’s Soulful Rendition
Arijit Singh, often hailed as the voice of modern Bollywood, brings his signature emotional depth to “Khairiyat.” His voice, known for its ability to convey a wide range of emotions, perfectly captures the bittersweet feelings of longing and regret that the song embodies. Arijit’s delivery is gentle yet powerful, making it easy for listeners to connect with the song on a personal level.
In “Khairiyat,” Arijit Singh’s voice is both a balm and a burden—soothing in its familiarity yet heavy with the weight of unspoken words and unresolved feelings. The song’s melody is simple, allowing Arijit’s vocals to take center stage. His ability to convey deep emotion with subtle inflections and a controlled tone is what makes this rendition stand out.
Pritam’s Musical Mastery
The composition by Pritam in “Khairiyat” is a testament to his versatility as a music director. Pritam has a knack for creating tunes that resonate with a wide audience, and with “Khairiyat,” he strikes a perfect balance between contemporary soundscapes and traditional Bollywood melodies.
The instrumentation in “Khairiyat” is minimalistic, with the piano and strings forming the backbone of the arrangement. This simplicity allows the song’s lyrics and Arijit Singh’s voice to shine through. The use of soft percussion adds a gentle rhythm that mirrors the heartbeat of someone in love or in pain—steady yet unpredictable.
Pritam’s composition also highlights his understanding of the film’s narrative. The music swells and recedes in perfect harmony with the story, providing an emotional underscore that enhances the impact of the scenes it accompanies. The bonus track version of “Khairiyat” is particularly effective in its understated elegance, making it a standout piece in the film’s soundtrack.
Amitabh Bhattacharya’s Poetic Lyrics
The lyrics of “Khairiyat,” written by Amitabh Bhattacharya, are a masterclass in simplicity and emotional resonance. Bhattacharya, known for his ability to craft lyrics that are both meaningful and accessible, taps into universal themes of love, loss, and yearning in this song.
The word “Khairiyat” itself translates to “well-being” or “welfare,” and in the context of the song, it becomes a poignant question—are you doing well? This simple query is loaded with emotion, as it reflects the concern of someone who cares deeply for another but is no longer a part of their life. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia for better days, a longing for connection, and the pain of separation.
Bhattacharya’s choice of words is delicate, yet each line carries a weight that lingers long after the song has ended. The lyrics are both a reflection on the past and a plea for the future, making “Khairiyat” a song that resonates with anyone who has experienced love and loss.
The Emotional Impact and Legacy
“Khairiyat” has become one of the most beloved songs from Chhichhore, and for good reason. It captures the essence of the film’s themes and delivers them in a way that is both heart-wrenching and soothing. The song has been praised for its emotional depth, its beautiful composition, and its timeless lyrics.
For many listeners, “Khairiyat” is more than just a song—it’s a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with those we love. The song’s popularity is also a testament to the enduring appeal of Bollywood’s musical traditions, where songs are not just interludes but integral parts of the storytelling process.
In the wake of Sushant Singh Rajput’s tragic passing, Chhichhore and its soundtrack, particularly “Khairiyat,” have taken on an even deeper significance. The song now serves as a bittersweet reminder of Rajput’s talent and the indelible mark he left on the film industry and his fans.
Conclusion
“Khairiyat” (Bonus Track) from Chhichhore is a beautiful example of how music can enhance a film’s emotional impact. Through Arijit Singh’s soulful vocals, Pritam’s thoughtful composition, and Amitabh Bhattacharya’s poignant lyrics, the song transcends its role as a mere soundtrack piece and becomes a powerful expression of love, loss, and nostalgia. It is a song that will continue to resonate with listeners long after the credits have rolled, a timeless ode to the complexities of the human heart.
ख़ैरियत पूछो, कभी तो कैफ़ियत पूछो
तुम्हारे बिन दीवाने का क्या हाल है
दिल मेरा देखो ना मेरी हैसियत पूछो
तेरे बिन एक दिन जैसे १०० साल है
अंजाम है तय मेरा, होना तुम्हें है मेरा
जितनी भी हो दूरियाँ फिलहाल हैं
ये दूरियाँ फिलहाल हैं
ओ, ख़ैरियत पूछो, कभी तो कैफ़ियत पूछो
तुम्हारे बिन दीवाने का क्या हाल है
दिल मेरा देखो ना मेरी हैसियत पूछो
तेरे बिन एक दिन जैसे १०० साल है
तुम्हारी तस्वीर के सहारे मौसम कई गुज़ारे
मौसमी ना समझो पर इश्क़ को हमारे
नज़रों के सामने मैं आता नहीं तुम्हारे
मगर रहते हो हर पल मंज़र में तुम हमारे
‘गर इश्क़ से है मिला, फिर दर्द से क्या गीला?
इस दर्द में ज़िंदगी खुशहाल है
ये दूरियाँ फिलहाल हैं
ओ, ख़ैरियत पूछो, कभी तो कैफ़ियत पूछो
तुम्हारे बिन दीवाने का क्या हाल है
दिल मेरा देखो ना मेरी हैसियत पूछो
तेरे बिन एक दिन जैसे १०० साल है
अंजाम है तय मेरा, होना तुम्हें है मेरा
जितनी भी हो दूरियाँ फिलहाल हैं
ये दूरियाँ फिलहाल हैं