“Yesterday’s wrong is today’s right, Today’s wrong will be tomorrow’s right”, insists Janardhan Kesaragadde in Preethiya Gaali. Deceptively simple yet powerful, the song has been sung across Karnataka over the years.
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Kannada’s literary canon is no stranger to social commentary, may it be Siddalingaiah’s fiery poetry or the plays of Girish Karnad. Penned by esteemed Kannada writer, poet, and social activist Janardhan Kesaragadde, Preethiya Gaali Beesutide (Love’s Breeze Blows) is a stirring ode to love and friendship that defy the boundaries of caste and religion. The lyrics echo the inevitability of change, however painful, as time and defiance dismantle the walls of tradition. If love and friendship are deemed mistakes, the song boldly urges us to embrace them, for what is condemned today will become tomorrow’s truth.
Recently, two distinct musical renditions bring these visionary words to life, each amplifying the song’s core through unique artistic lenses.
The first rendition is a live performance by Vechi Arun Kumar, Bengaluru-based singer who infuses the song with powerful resonance. He is one of the lead vocalists of the cultural and environmental music collective Bhumi Thaayi Balaga. Rooted in folk music traditions of Karnataka, he has also featured on the Doordarshan show Bharat Ka Amrit Kalash, the folk singing reality show, judged by Kailash Kher among others. He has composed and performed songs on socially conscious themes across the state. His powerful tenor accompanied with nothing but a tambourine will turn you into an instant fan.
In the second interpretation, writer-filmmaker Naveen Tejaswi reimagines the song through an intimate, indie-folk lens. Known for his award-winning short films like imaana and Habba Haridina Suggi Shivaratri (presented by actor-director Raj B. Shetty), which weave delicate narratives on identity and human connection. As a singer-songwriter, Naveen crafts a refreshing arrangement featuring acoustic guitars and harmonica. The accompanying music video also directed by him is a heartwarming visual treat crafted with love that will surely leave a smile on your face.
The right performances, with the right words and music, remain powerful vessels for social change. Hopefully, as the song continues to find new voices, its message of love and defiance will echo louder than ever.
You can stream Naveen Tejaswi’s ‘Preethiya Gaali‘ here:
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