The tragic romantic story of Heer and her lover Ranjha has been retold over the centuries by a host of poets and writers. Waris Shah wrote the whole story as a poem. Baba Bulleh Shah chose to give a voice to Heer and composed poem about specific incidents like the return of Ranjha as a wandering jogi. Sufi poets have used the story to depict the journey of the soul.

Here are some more contemporary re-imaginings of the story.

Heer
Nitin Sawhney



The British musician blends the centuries old verses of Waris Shah with elements of electronica. Reena Bhardwaj’s vocal lack the energy of a folk performance but are suited for this kind of fusion.

Heeray
Rabbi Shergill



Rabbi Shergill’s version is full of energy and it sways between the highs. It is a perfect blend of poetry, music and vocals. The song captures Heer’s anger and disappointment after the death of beloved Ranjha.

Main Nai Jana Kheryan Day Naal
Tufail Niazi



Tufail Niazi was one of the finest Punjabi folk musicians. His emotive rendition of Baba Bulleh Shah’s poem stands out for its expressive touch.  Niazi spent some years living with nautankis and raasdharis so his performances have a touch of this drama.

Ni Main Jana Jogi De Naal
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan



Jana Jogi De Naal is another popular poem written by Bulleh Shah. It talks of the return of Ranjha as a jogi mendicant. Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan starts the qawwali with verses of Bulleh Shah that are critical of rituals in religion. The performance is marked with elaborate sargams, a style that Nusrat popularised. There is a shift to Aaaja Tenu Akhiyaan Udeek Diyaan at around 18-minute mark and then to Loe Loe Ajaa Mahi.

To read part one of this series, click here.