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Soulfully Yours, Ravi by Manek Premchand

Soulfully Ravi by Manek Premchand — A Melodic Tribute to a Master Composer

Blue Pencil is delighted to announce the release of our latest title, Soulfully Yours, Ravii, an evocative, deeply researched, and heartfelt exploration of one of Hindi cinema’s most quietly brilliant music composers: Ravi. Authored by the celebrated Hindi film and music historian Manek Premchand, this book promises to be a treasure for every lover of Hindi film music.

This 455-page non-fiction work examines the life, legacy, and musical genius of a composer whose work lives on in the hearts of millions, even when his name often slips from mainstream recollection.

Rediscovering Ravi: The Man Behind the Melodies

Ask Hindi film music lovers to list their top composers, and Ravi’s name might appear late, if at all. Yet, hum a few notes of Chaudhvin Ka Chaand Ho, Jab Chali Thandi Hawa, or Aye Meri Zohra Jabeen, and voices across generations will join in.

This paradox of unforgettable melodies paired with an under-recognized creator lies at the heart of Soulfully Yours Ravi.

In this definitive work, Manek Premchand revisits Ravi’s illustrious repertoire, diving into the stories behind his 100 finest songs. The book captures the essence of a man who preferred to stay away from the spotlight while creating music that sparkled with emotion, grace, and timeless charm. Ravi is remembered here not only as a composer but also as a lyricist and singer, revealing the layers of talent that made him a true musical craftsman.

Soulfully Yours Ravi is more than a biographical account; it is a celebration of melody over fame, emotion over visibility, and art over ego.

A Journey Through Timeless Music

Across its meticulously structured chapters, the book offers:

Critical reflections on Ravi’s most iconic songs
Analysis of his contributions as a composer whose simplicity hid immense depth
A thoughtful narrative reconstructing how his music outlived the man in public memory

For every student of music, for every devotee of classic Hindi films, and for every admirer of the golden age of melodies, this book is an essential companion.

Manek Premchand — Chronicler of Hindi Film Music

A distinguished scholar of Hindi film music, Manek Premchand has long been a custodian of the Golden Era. He has taught Broadcasting and Visual Communications at St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, and conducted acclaimed Master Classes on the evolution of Hindi film music at Manipal University. He has also served as an Advisor to Manipal University Press, which has published two of his books.

His impressive body of work includes hundreds of articles and several landmark books such as Yesterday’s Melodies, Today’s Memories, Musical Moments From Hindi Films, Romancing The Song, Shiv Kumar Sharma, The Man and His Music (co-authored with two others), Talat Mahmood—The Velvet Voice, Hitting The Right Notes, The Hindi Music Jukebox, The Unforgettable Music of Hemant Kumar, Majrooh Sultanpuri: The Poet For All Reasons, Windows to the Soul, DIRECTOR’S CHAIR — Hindi Cinema’s Golden Age, And the Music Lives On and Soulfully Yours, Ravi.

Manek’s presence has enriched film festivals, literary gatherings, radio shows, and television programmes dedicated to preserving the rich legacy of Hindi cinema and music.

A Must-Read for Music Lovers

Soulfully Yours Ravi is a must-have for musicologists, collectors, historians, and anyone who has ever hummed a Ravi tune without knowing the genius behind it.

Book Details

Title: Soulfully Yours Ravi
Author: Manek Premchand
Genre: Non-Fiction / Cinema
Binding: Paperback (6.14″ x 9.25″)
Pages: 455
ISBN: 978-81-943921-4-9

Celebrate the legacy of a composer who let his music speak louder than his name. Order your copy of Soulfully Yours, Ravi.
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Other Blue Pencil Publications by Manek Premchand

The Unforgettable Music of Hemant Kumar

Majrooh Sultanpuri: The Poet For All Reasons

DIRECTOR’S CHAIR — Hindi Cinema’s Golden Age

DIRECTOR’S CHAIR — Hindi Cinema’s Golden Age by Manek Premchand | Blue Pencil’s NEW RELEASE

Blue Pencil Publishers is proud to announce the release of our latest book, an insightful, mammoth, and captivating work, DIRECTOR’S CHAIR — Hindi Cinema’s Golden Age, penned by the esteemed Hindi film and music critic, Manek Premchand.

Set to launch on January 15, 2024, this book is a treasure trove for cinephiles and enthusiasts eager to delve into the rich history of Hindi cinema.

Exploring the Golden Age: A Cinematic Odyssey

In this 572-page non-fiction masterpiece, Manek Premchand takes readers on a journey through the golden age of Hindi cinema, spanning from the silent era in the early 20th century to the remarkable films of the ’50s, ’60s, and concluding in 1980. The book is a meticulous study of the lives and works of prominent film directors who shaped the industry during this transformative period.

Premchand emphasizes the pivotal role of directors in shaping the narrative of a film. In DIRECTOR’S CHAIR, he explores how directors such as Guru Dutt, Bimal Roy, Mehboob Khan, Sohrab Modi, and B R Chopra occupied the metaphorical “director’s chair” with unparalleled authority, leaving an indelible mark on the industry. This study celebrates the profound impact these visionaries had on the cinematic landscape.

The author asserts that a director’s role surpasses that of any other member of a film’s cast and crew. The book underscores how a director’s discerning gaze encompasses every aspect of filmmaking, making the final creation their cinematic baby. In this era, the director truly ruled the roost, much like the music director’s influence over a film’s songs.

Beyond Numbers: Hindi Cinema’s Timeless Legacy

Despite India’s dominance in global filmmaking in terms of quantity, Premchand addresses the scarcity of quality cinema. He acknowledges the timeless nature of films from the past, where glitz and glamour took a backseat to genuine content and class.

DIRECTOR’S CHAIR serves as a testament to the creative giants who navigated the industry without the aid of modern technology, relying solely on their passion and artistry.

About the Author: Manek Premchand – A Maestro in Film Criticism

Manek Premchand, armed with a diploma in Journalism and a degree in Arts from Bombay University, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his writing. A prolific author with several books on Hindi cinema and music to his name, he remains fascinated by the cultural significance of Bollywood music in our diverse nation. His extensive experience in the industry, including roles as a consultant with Saregama India Ltd. and a show host on various radio platforms, adds depth to his insightful narratives.

A Must-Have for Film Aficionados

DIRECTOR’S CHAIR — Hindi Cinema’s Golden Age is not just a book; it is a celebration of cinematic excellence. A must-have for all who believe in the timeless allure of films from our past.

Secure your copy by preordering it now at ₹799 (FREE Shipping) and save Rs.100 (MRP: ₹899).

Order now. DIRECTOR’S CHAIR — Hindi Cinema’s Golden Age by Manek Premchand — Join us in reliving the golden era of Hindi cinema.

Other Blue Pencil Publications by Manek Premchand

The Unforgettable Music of Hemant Kumar

Majrooh Sultanpuri: The Poet For All Reasons

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‘KABIR — An Inward Journey’ by Smita Tiwari — Blue Pencil’s NEW RELEASE!

Greetings, book enthusiasts and literature lovers!

We are thrilled to announce the latest addition to Blue Pencil’s growing library of captivating stories – KABIR — An Inward Journey a debut novel by UAE-based author, Smita Tiwari.

Embark on a Soulful Journey

KABIR – An Inward Journey invites you to delve into the heart of India through the eyes of Kabir, a young wanderer navigating the labyrinth of grief. In this sensitive and touching debut novel, Smita Tiwari intricately weaves a tapestry of emotions, spirituality, and self-discovery that will resonate with readers on a profound level.

kabir smita tiwari — KABIR – An Inward Journey by Smita Tiwari

Synopsis

Set against the backdrop of the mystical land of India, Kabir’s story unfolds like the verses of the renowned Sant Kabir Das. Wrestling with the weight of grief, Kabir is spurred into action, seeking solace and understanding on an introspective odyssey. His journey takes him through the vibrant tapestry of Indian villages, bustling towns, and bustling cities, each step a revelation leading to a deeper connection with the self.

As Kabir grapples with the complexities of life, his path ultimately converges with a celebration of renunciation, acceptance, enlightenment, and the enduring power of love. The pages of this novel are imbued with a profound sense of spirituality, encouraging readers to embark on their own inward journey of self-discovery.

About the Author

Smita Tiwari holds a bachelor’s degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering. She worked as a Technical Evangelist in Infosys Limited.

Despite her background in science and a successful career, Smita had always been captivated by literature. She left her full-time job to embrace motherhood and found herself drawn back to writing in her leisure time.

When she lost her father to the pandemic, Smita’s writing found a new purpose — she sublimated her grief in lyrical prose. Her debut work beautifully weaves the universal themes of love and loss and celebrates the enduring connections that define our lives

Her writing is a harmonious blend of sensitivity and depth, crafting a narrative that transcends geographical boundaries and speaks to the universal human experience.

Why You Should Dive Into Kabir — An Inward Journey

Unique Perspective: Explore the mystical and diverse landscapes of India through the eyes of Kabir, gaining a unique perspective on life’s profound journey.

Soulful Storytelling: Smita Tiwari’s evocative prose and storytelling prowess create an immersive experience, allowing readers to feel every emotion and revelation.

Spiritual Exploration: Inspired by the timeless verses of Sant Kabir Das, the novel invites readers on a spiritual exploration, encouraging introspection and self-discovery.

KABIR — An Inward Journey is more than just a novel; it’s an invitation to celebrate the intricacies of life, love, and the pursuit of understanding.

Available at Blue Pencil Bookstore | Amazon | Flipkart

Let the pages of KABIR — An Inward Journey unfold before you, as you embark on a journey of the soul, embracing the wisdom and beauty that lies within. Join us in welcoming Smita Tiwari’s debut into the literary world with open arms and an eager heart.

Happy Reading!

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Category: Blue Pencil Books