Heer- Inayat Hussain Bhatti

Heer, the epic or qissa that speaks of the high romance between the two lovers is one of the finest works of Waris Shah. Waris Shah’s version of Heer has made him a name to be reckoned with in the tradition of Punjabi qissa poetry. The legend of Heer- Ranjha was originally structured with a happy ending where the two lovers united. However, Waris Shah structured the epic anew to give it a tragic ending, thus immortalizing the live story.

The legend of Heer has enthralled and mesmerized listeners for generations. Its exquisite poetry, spiritual interpretation and historic embellishments have made this love-legend one that lends complete expression to the Punjabi soul.

Heer is the story of undying eternal love that highlights a range of emotions that are timeless. Set against the backdrop of religious divide, societal pressures and the political climate of Punjab in those times, the epic is an expression of love in different hues- pain, separation, union, sacrifice and fantasy.

However, the story of Heer has a deeper metaphysical connotation, one that traces the struggle to attain union with God, the Almighty. Heer, the elusive and formless equivalent of which is God, is sought by Ranjha, her beloved (the seeker). The delay in the union or wisal of the two lovers is on account of the troubled circumstances and hurdles they face, akin to the various stages and impediments a disciple has to endure to attain union with God. With every passing stage the seeker is purified. Through this tragic epic, Waris Shah attempts to explain the importance of surrender, sacrifice, self-mortification and the need to walk the path of truth (haqiqat) to earn love.

The legend of Heer has been immortalized by its unique rendition through music and narration- also known as the Kaafi style. In accordance with tradition, this album presents a never-before released rendition of Waris Shah’s Heer in its entirety. The Heer-Ranjha legend has reached audiences only in the form of delected verses before. This album presents the listener with the unique opportunity to enjoy this epic piece with all its classic dimensions.

Inayat Hussain Bhatti, a multi-talented artiste, was well known for his Punjabi folk and film music. The singer also showcased his talent in the field of direction, production and acting, with a number of films to his credit. In this album, Inayat Hussain Bhatti’s virtuosity is reflected in his rendition of the legend of Heer, capturing the distinct flavour of Punjabiyat.