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
