Naalanju Kaashinu by Zia Ul Haq, Ranjin Raj

Naalanju Kaashinu arrived from the Naalanju Kaashinu album and quickly became one of the most replayed tracks of 2020. Ranjin Raj's arrangement gives the track a layered quality that rewards repeated listening.

Zia Ul Haq, Ranjin Raj inhabits this song completely, making every phrase feel like it was written specifically for this voice. On screen, a talented ensemble cast bring the emotional world of the song to life in a way that enhances rather than competes with the music.

2020 marked the release of Naalanju Kaashinu, and Naalanju Kaashinu was the track that ensured the album would be remembered. There is no right time to listen to Naalanju Kaashinu. There is only the moment you press play and realise it was the right choice.

Running to 3:24, the song is exactly as long as it needs to be, which is the hardest length for a songwriter to find. For anyone yet to hear Naalanju Kaashinu, the experience ahead is a good one. For those returning, it will be as good as they remember.