Etho Nizhalukal by Haroon Khader

Haroon Khader has delivered memorable performances before, but Etho Nizhalukal sits comfortably among the very best. Credit goes to Haroon Khader, Rahul Raj for a score that understands exactly what the song needs and nothing more.

Haroon Khader brings a warmth to Etho Nizhalukal that no production choice could manufacture — it has to be felt, and here it is. For fans of a talented ensemble cast, Etho Nizhalukal is one of those songs that immediately conjures specific scenes and emotions.

By the end of 2020, Etho Nizhalukal had moved well beyond its original audience and into everyday playlists. Whether it plays on a long drive, during a quiet evening at home, or through earphones on a crowded commute, the song meets the listener where they are.

At 4:23, the track does not overstay its welcome — it says what it needs to say and leaves the listener wanting more. Songs like Etho Nizhalukal are the reason people fall in love with Malayalam music and never quite fall out of it.