out of

Producer: Madan Mohla
Director: Aziz Sajawal
Music: Anand-Milind
Lyrics: Anand Bakshi

Reviewed by: Mandeep Bahra
mandeep@indolink.com

The success of SIRF TUM has given Sanjay Kapoor a new lease of life as an actor. As a result he has managed to get Manisha Koirala to co-star in CHHUPA RUSTAM; he's even managed to coax Mamta Kulkarni out of hibernation for the film. But what about the music? Well, lively, peppy music is the order of the day on this soundtrack. Anand-Milind seem to be slowly regaining their lost glory. The album starts with a real gem, "Yeh Chand Koi Deewana Hai", which has a foot-tapping rhythm reminiscent of Alisha's "Krishna Krishna" in INSAAF. Alka Yagnik and Kumar Sanu bring Anand-Milind's tune and Anand Bakshi's lyrics to life, creating a lasting impression.

"Bangla, Gaadi, Jhumke, Kangana" has an infectious tune you'll be humming along to in no time. In fact, I enjoyed the tune so much, it took me a while to notice Anand Bakshi's rather regressive lyrics! The song actually has Alka Yagnik telling her guy that he can give a house, car, jewellery, etc., but not his heart to her 'souten' ! In this day and age, I doubt very much whether any woman would settle for such a situation. The lyrics seem to suggest that she's happy for him to have a mistress as long as he doesn't give his heart to her! If only Anand-Milind hadn't wasted such a great tune on such nonsense lyrics.

Things look up again in "Tu Hai Mere Dil Mein". The lyrics here are not as controversial, nor are they brilliantly inspiring. What makes this song enjoyable is Anand-Milind's composition and some great singing. Because of the semi-classical tune, (coupled with a contemporary rhythm), Hariharan and Sadhana Sargam have been drafted in to sing the number. You realise what a strategic move this was when you hear the two singers hit every note with skill and precision.

"Raja Yeh Kya Karte Ho" starts off with Alka Yagnik and Kumar Sanu trying to 'restrain' themselves and suggesting that they keep away from each other. By the end of the song they're suggesting that they run towards each other! The lively music helps to digest the corny lyrics and saves the number from becoming a fast-forward candidate.

"Pyar Mein Dil To" is another gem, mainly due to Anand-Milind's catchy melody, especially for the "...oh jaanam, oh jaanam..." refrain. Alka Yagnik and Kumar Sanu are in fine form, sounding fresher than they have in a long time.

Unfortunately, the title track, "Tu Nikla Chhupa Rustam" by Alka Yagnik is the only track that doesn't grow on you. There is no catchy melody despite lively percussion. A disappointing end to an otherwise decent album.

Critics have been rather harsh on Anand-Milind in recent times. This is understandable when you hear stuff like BANARSI BABU and CHANDAAL. However, Anand-Milind seem to be working hard again, as evidenced by this album and the recent CHAL MERE BHAI. Maybe it's time we all gave them a break.