MUMBAI: Celebrated composer duo Salim-Sulaiman have released the music video for their latest track, “Maangi Duaein”. A timeless and timely ode to modern love, the song explores the memories of two lovers wrenched apart by life and circumstance. Starring social media sensation Mr. Faisu and actor Ruhii Singh, the evocative music video perfectly encapsulates the mind-sets and struggles of modern couples, even as it draws from the nostalgia and dream of reuniting with loved ones.

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“Maangi Duaein” is composed by Salim-Sulaiman and is the first release under the musician duo’s record label Merchant Records in partnership with modern media firm Qyuki. The song bears motifs of some of Salim-Sulaiman’s signature songs, melding soothing refrains with orchestral glory. The ballad, penned by Shraddha Pandit, features the singer Raghav Chaitanya who brings the song’s raw emotion to the fore. The result is a romantic track for the ages.

Says Salim Merchant of Salim-Sulaiman, “A lot of relationships don't work out for various reasons. ‘Maangi Duaein’ is a song that expresses the feelings of two people who are really in love but don't get together; for some reason, their love is incomplete. Presented by Merchant Records and Qyuki, ‘Maangi Duaein’ is one of those timeless pieces of music that I hope and pray will continue to stay.”

Adds Sulaiman Merchant of Salim-Sulaiman, “We are very excited about launching the first song, ‘Maangi Duaein’, under the label of Merchant Records in partnership with Qyuki. We intend to release a lot of new and fresh content through this label.”

Shot during the lockdown and set against the hope and gloom of the monsoon, the music video is a bright and moody palette of sunshine ochre, passionate red and steely blue. Mr. Faisu and Ruhii essay lovers combating impossible odds and the video traces their relationship from start to finish, celebrating the happy moments of a couple in love, as well as the inevitable challenges they face.

Says Digital Superstar Mr. Faisu, “I am very happy and honored to feature in the music video for ‘Maangi Duaein’ by the iconic Salim-Sulaiman, who are one of my all-time favourite musicians. Collaborating with Ruhii was a lot of fun - she is an excellent actor and I had a blast shooting for the video. Hope our fans will like it!”

Says Actor and Former Miss India Ruhii Singh, “Shooting for the song with Mr. Faisu was a fabulous experience. Salim-Sulaiman are the best at what they do and it was fantastic to be a part of this music video. ‘Maangi Duaein’ is a beautiful song with great visuals and Faisu is a very sweet person. I had a great time shooting the music video and am really looking forward to the response.”

“Maangi Duaein” also marks the genesis of Merchant Records, Salim-Sulaiman’s new record label launched in partnership with Qyuki. A tribute to the late Samir Bangara (Co-founder & MD, Qyuki), who passed away last month, “Maangi Duaein” is an ode to his inspiring vision that empowered hundreds of artists and creators across the creative spectrum.

Says Salim Merchant, “‘Maangi Duaein’ is a dedication in honour and in loving memory of my late friend Samir Bangara. Samir really liked ‘Maangi Duaein’ a lot and I wanted this song to be the first release under Merchant Records, a label which Sulaiman, Samir, Sagar and I, had been thinking about for a couple of years. We are continuing with Samir’s dream, we are continuing with his spirit and we are keeping him in our hearts and our prayers.”

Adds Faisu, whose career saw a remarkable transformation under Bangara’s mentoring, “Samir sir was my biggest source of inspiration and motivation. He believed in me and pushed me to chase my dreams. He was my teacher, guide and like an older brother, and I want to dedicate this song to him. Samir sir, you will always live in our hearts and we shall make you proud.”