Vanraj Bhatia (b. 1926)

One of the few Hindi composers trained in classical Western music. Educated in Bombay. Studied at the Royal Academy of Music, London (1950). Travelled extensively in Europe listening to opera. Tried to become a professional composer in Europe but eventually returned to Bombay. Provided music for documentaries and advertising films, and some incidental music for Merchant-Ivory’s The Householder (with Jyotirindra Moitra). Made professional feature début for Benegal’s Ankur. Best-known work for Benegal and Kumar Shahani (Tarang, Kasba). One of the finest composers fusing Indian classical ragas with Western harmonics; his music for Tarang was performed as a concert by a chamber orchestra. Often expressed a desire to have his music played on every street corner of Bombay, but is also working on a full opera.

FILMOGRAPHY: 1963: The Householder; 1967: Moving Perspective (Doc); 1973: Ankur; 1975: Nishant; 1976: Manthan; Bhumika; 1977: Kondura/Anugraham; 1978: Junoon; 1980: Kalyug; 1981: Sazaaye Maut; 36 Chowringhee Lane; 1983: Mandi; Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron; Mohan Joshi Haazir Ho; 1984: Tarang; Hip Hip Hurray; Khandaan (TV); 1985: Surkhiyaan; Aaghat; Trikaal; Khamosh; 1986: Yatra (TV); Susman; 1987: Pestonjee; Tamas (TV); Mohre; 1988: Bharat Ek Khoj (TV); 1989: Khandaan (TV); Percy; 1990: Lifeline (TV); Kasba; 1992: Suraj Ka Satwan Ghoda; Antrnaad; Beta; 1993: Sardar; Damini; 1994: Mammo; Drohkaal; 1995: Bangarwadi; Naseem.

Music