As someone who grew up in the heart of Kerala, I can truly appreciate the talent and impact that Mohan Sithara has had on our beloved Malayalam cinema. Having heard his enchanting melodies since my childhood, it’s no surprise to me that Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor have come to cherish one of his most famous compositions, Unni Vaavavo.
For most Malayalees, the song Unni Vaavavo is a staple lullaby that parents have sung for their newborns for years now. However, the song has surely found its recognition beyond Kerala, as Alia Bhatt recently revealed her daughter’s favorite lullaby is Unni Vaavavo, which even Ranbir Kapoor has learned to sing.
However, have you ever wondered who crafted this captivating lullaby that’s currently creating quite a buzz? This melodious tune made its debut in the 1991 Malayalam film Santhwanam, directed by Sibi Malayil. The talented music composer behind it is none other than Mohan Sithara. Let’s delve into this musician’s career!
Who is Mohan Sithara?
Mohan Sithara, a renowned music composer, originates from Thrissur, Kerala, and is widely recognized in Malayalam cinema. With a career spanning over three decades, starting in 1986, he is appreciated for his ability to blend Western, classical, and folk music styles seamlessly in his compositions.
The 65-year-old composer’s voyage through music commenced when he was a violinist in different musical ensembles. Collaborations with music industry veterans such as composers M.G. Radhakrishnan, Shyam, and Perumbavoor G. Raveendranath greatly impacted his professional path.
Under Raveendranath’s tutelage, the musician contributed to the orchestration of songs for the timeless cult-classic movie Thoovanathumbikal. Yet, it was in 1986 that the musician embarked on his independent music composing journey with the film Onnu Muthal Poojyam Vare.
Watch a song from Onnu Mutal Poojyam Vare
The Malayalam language drama flick written and directed by celebrated writer Reghunath Paleri in his directorial debut explored themes of loneliness faced by a widow woman and how her daughter seeks a father figure in her life. The film featured Asha Jayaram in the lead role, with Yash’s Toxic director Geetu Mohandas debuting as a child actor. Interestingly, the film also had Mohanlal in a special cameo role.
Moreover, the film’s soundtrack creator experienced great triumph throughout his career as a movie music composer. With numerous films under his belt, he took on projects such as Varshangal Poyathariyathe, Kudumbapuranam, and Maamalakalkkappurath.
In 1989, the talented music composer also created the tracks and scores for the Malayalam film “Chanakyan,” starring Kamal Haasan and Jayaram. This movie was directed by TK Rajeev Kumar. The plot revolves around a character named Johnson, who is technically adept and hatches a plan to kill the Chief Minister of Kerala.
Besides the principal cast, the movie showcases actors such as Urmila Matondkar, Thilakan, and Madhu in secondary roles. Notably, this film represented Kamal Haasan’s final lead role in a Malayalam film and also signaled Urmila’s debut in a leading part prior to her transition into Bollywood productions.
Over time, Mohan Sithara’s music career progressed, with him appearing in numerous films such as Parampara starring Mammootty, Mukha Chithram, Kaliveedu, Swapnakkoodu featuring Prithviraj Sukumaran, and many others.
More about the lullaby Unni Vaavavo
The soothing melody “Unni Vaavavo” is featured in the film titled “Santhwanam,” which was directed by Sibi Malayail. In this movie, Nedumudi Venu and Meena take on the main characters, with Suresh Gopi contributing a significant role as well.
The tune created by Mohan Sithara has lyrics written by renowned artist Kaithapram and was first sung by KS Chitra. In a recent article from OnManorama, the composer was queried about his feelings upon hearing that the lullaby was acknowledged by Alia Bhatt during the marketing of Jigra.
In response, the musician expressed thanks by saying, “Everything is a divine blessing,” as he’s gratified that his music is gaining recognition not only within different languages and geographical areas but also transcending them.
Check out the lullaby Unni Vaavavo here:
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2024-09-25 18:37