Written by Mohd. Anas Qureshi : Anas is a student of filmmaking and aspires to be a Film Director soon.
Yash Chopra, an iconic figure in Indian cinema, was renowned for his distinct storytelling and captivating visual imagery. As a visionary filmmaker, he had an innate ability to weave mesmerising narratives through his impeccable use of visuals. With his keen eye for detail and his passion for cinematography, Chopra created a unique aesthetic that continues to inspire and leave an indelible mark on the film industry.
However, when talking about the legacy of a filmmaker, it’s often quite tough to encompass every film of the filmmaker who has had a diverse range of films under his belt.
He made his directorial debut with a courtroom drama, Dhool Ka Phool (1959). His command over his craft was visible from the get-go. In fact, one would never think he would be known for his romantic films if someone only watched his earlier work.
However, that is not to say that Yash Chopra did not delve into the world of action or drama, films like Deewar and Trishul are tremendous and successful examples of action drama films of its time. But it was Kabhi Kabhie (1976) that really not just started but cemented Yash Chopra into the minds and hearts of everyone in the country.
Yash Chopra has left an everlasting legacy from that film to his swan song, Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012). Here are some commonalities as recurring themes or motifs in his visual language throughout his filmography.
Exquisite Romantic Landscapes
One of the defining features of Yash Chopra’s films was his portrayal of exquisite romantic landscapes. Whether it was the snow-clad mountains of Switzerland or the lush fields of Punjab, Chopra beautifully showcased the visual grandeur of these locations.
He transformed them into dreamlike backdrops that heightened the emotions and romance within his stories. Through his lens, he captured the beauty of nature and its seamless integration with the narrative, leaving the audience spellbound.
Saturated Colours and shot in deep focus became a hallmark of his filmography.
Vibrant and Opulent Sets
Yash Chopra’s films were known for their opulent and vibrant sets. His attention to detail in production design was remarkable, from lavish palaces to elegant mansions. These visually stunning sets added glamour to his films and served as an extension of the characters’ emotions and aspirations. Whether it was the final horse chase in a forest fire in Kabhi Kabhie (1976), the breathtakingly beautiful song sequences in Silsila (1981) or the courtroom set that was built for the film Veer Zaara Chopra’s meticulous selection of sets played a crucial role in enhancing the visual appeal of his films.
Iconic Song-and-Dance Sequences
Yash Chopra’s films were incomplete without their iconic song-and-dance sequences. These sequences became integral to his storytelling, conveying emotions and moving the narrative forward. Chopra had an uncanny ability to create visually captivating and memorable musical moments.
From tulip gardens in Silsila (1981) and enchanting sand dunes of Lamhe (1991) to a mystifying backdrop of a forest in the song Kabhi Kabhie, he masterfully incorporated choreography, costumes, and picturesque locations to create a feast for the eyes. These sequences showcased his actors’ talent and became a trademark of his filmmaking style, lasting and impacting The Hindi Film Industry.
The Portrayal of Women as Beautiful Deities and the Use of Chiffon Sarees :
Yash Chopra’s films often portrayed women as ethereal and enchanting beings akin to beautiful deities. Through his visual storytelling, he showcased the elegance and grace of women, emphasising their inherent beauty. Chopra’s choice of costumes played a significant role in this portrayal, with chiffon sarees becoming synonymous with his heroines.
The flowing, translucent fabric added a touch of delicacy and allure, enhancing the romantic atmosphere and creating stunning visual moments.
Whether it was Sridevi in “Chandni” or Madhuri Dixit in “Dil To Pagal Hai,” the chiffon sarees became iconic symbols of femininity, sensuality, and timeless beauty in Chopra’s cinematic universe. Chiffon Sarees played a crucial role in exemplifying the beauty of his heroines.
They were untouched, pure and had a fairy-like aura around them.
On one side, where Hindi films have become synonymous with sensationalising and objectifying women in item songs, Yash Chopra always used his female characters as deities and keepers of true beauty untouched by the world’s lustful eyes.
Films starting with poetry or a song
With a keen understanding of the power of music and words, Chopra masterfully crafted opening sequences that captured the essence of his stories. Through soul-stirring melodies and evocative verses, he effortlessly set the mood, introduced characters, and established the emotional landscape of his films. His collaborations with renowned lyricists and composers resulted in timeless classics that resonated deeply with audiences. Yash Chopra’s use of songs and poetry at the beginning of his films became an iconic trademark, igniting a sense of anticipation and immersing viewers into the world of his narratives.
- “Kabhi Kabhie Mere Dil Mein” – Film: Kabhi Kabhie (1976) In the film Kabhi Kabhie, Yash Chopra opens with the soulful title track “Kabhi Kabhie Mere Dil Mein,” composed by Khayyam and penned by Sahir Ludhianvi. The song sets the stage for a complex love story, introducing the main characters and establishing the themes of longing, nostalgia, and the bittersweet nature of relationships.
- “Le Gayi Le Gayi” – Film: Dil To Pagal Hai (1997) In Dil To Pagal Hai, Yash Chopra begins with the energetic title track “Le Gayi Le Gayi,” composed by Uttam Singh and written by Anand Bakshi. The song features vibrant choreography and captures the spirit of youthful love and passion. It sets the tone for a romantic musical with vibrant visuals and dynamic performances.
- “Kyon Hawa” – Film: Veer Zaara (2004) The song “Kyon Hawa” in the film Veer-Zaara holds a special place as a song that starts the film and sets the stage for a poignant love story. Composed by Madan Mohan and penned by Javed Akhtar, the song opens with hauntingly beautiful vocals and a gentle melody, instantly captivating the audience.
“Kyon Hawa” serves as an introduction to the character of Veer, played by Shah Rukh Khan, as he reminisces about his past love, Zaara, portrayed by Preity Zinta. The song’s lyrical verses delicately express Veer’s longing and his yearning for their reunion. The soft orchestration and the breathtaking visuals of the serene countryside add to the nostalgic and romantic ambience.
“Kabhi Kabhie Mere Dil Mein” – Film: Kabhi Kabhie (1976) In the film Kabhi Kabhie, Yash Chopra opens with the soulful title track “Kabhi Kabhie Mere Dil Mein,” composed by Khayyam and penned by Sahir Ludhianvi. The song sets the stage for a complex love story, introducing the main characters and establishing the themes of longing, nostalgia, and the bittersweet nature of relationships.
“Le Gayi Le Gayi” – Film: Dil To Pagal Hai (1997) In Dil To Pagal Hai, Yash Chopra begins with the energetic title track “Le Gayi Le Gayi,” composed by Uttam Singh and written by Anand Bakshi. The song features vibrant choreography and captures the spirit of youthful love and passion. It sets the tone for a romantic musical with vibrant visuals and dynamic performances.
“Kyon Hawa” – Film: Veer Zaara (2004) The song “Kyon Hawa” in the film Veer-Zaara holds a special place as a song that starts the film and sets the stage for a poignant love story. Composed by Madan Mohan and penned by Javed Akhtar, the song opens with hauntingly beautiful vocals and a gentle melody, instantly captivating the audience.
“Kyon Hawa” serves as an introduction to the character of Veer, played by Shah Rukh Khan, as he reminisces about his past love, Zaara, portrayed by Preity Zinta. The song’s lyrical verses delicately express Veer’s longing and his yearning for their reunion. The soft orchestration and the breathtaking visuals of the serene countryside add to the nostalgic and romantic ambience.
Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012): In Jab Tak Hai Jaan, the film begins with a poignant and evocative poem, capturing the essence of the story. The opening lines, penned by Aditya Chopra, are recited in Shah Rukh Khan’s soulful voice. The verses delve into love, destiny, and the eternal pursuit of passion. With its lyrical beauty and heartfelt delivery, the starting poetry in Jab Tak Hai Jaan instantly hooks the audience, setting the stage for a heartfelt and profound journey of love and self-discovery.
One can find certain particular visual motifs throughout his filmography, which can be a part of his artistic use of camera and blocking in his films.
Lighting and Atmosphere:
Yash Chopra skillfully used lighting and atmospheric elements to enhance the mood and emotion of his scenes.
He often employed soft, diffused lighting to create a romantic ambience, particularly in intimate sequences. This can be seen in films like Lamhe (1991), Silsila (1981), Kabhi Kabhie (1976), Veer Zaara (2004) and Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2004).
Symbolic Weather
Weather played a symbolic role in many of Yash Chopra’s films. Rain was often used as a metaphor for emotional intensity and passionate love.
The iconic rain-soaked song sequences in films like Dil Toh Pagal Hai is a classic example of this visual motif.
Yash Chopra’s Signature Shot:
Yash Chopra was known for a particular camera angle that became synonymous with his style. This shot, often called the “Yash Chopra Shot,” involved capturing the heroine from behind a prop or object, focusing on her through a foreground element.
It added a sense of intrigue and allure to the scenes. One of the notable examples of this shot can be seen in the song “Tere Liye” from “Veer-Zaara.”
Reflections and Mirrors
Yash Chopra often used reflections and mirrors as visual motifs to convey his characters’ inner emotions and conflicts. Mirrors in films like Silsila, Lamhe and Darr (1993) added depth and symbolism to the storytelling.
NRIs and their love for their country, India
Yash Chopra beautifully captured the diaspora’s experiences, emotions, and conflicts through his storytelling prowess, forging a deep connection with the global Indian community. Chopra’s films often revolved around themes of longing, identity, and cultural duality, reflecting the lives of Indians abroad and their struggles to balance tradition and modernity.
With his keen eye for detail and sensitivity, he brought to life the aspirations and challenges faced by these individuals, contributing to a greater understanding and appreciation of the Indian diaspora’s diverse experiences on the silver screen.
Intimate Close-ups
Yash Chopra skillfully used close-up shots to capture the emotions and nuances of his characters. These intimate close-ups brought the audience closer to the characters and emphasised the intensity of their feelings. Films like “Kabhi Kabhie” and “Jab Tak Hai Jaan” feature several powerful close-up moments.
Conclusion
Yash Chopra’s visual imagery was a testament to his genius as a filmmaker. His films celebrated love, romance, and aesthetics, with each frame carefully crafted to create a visual spectacle. From the breathtaking landscapes to the opulent sets and iconic song sequences, Chopra’s distinct style became his trademark, setting him apart from his contemporaries. Even today, his films inspire and influence aspiring filmmakers, who strive to recreate the magic he effortlessly conjured on the screen. Yash Chopra’s legacy lives on through his visual imagery, forever etched in the hearts of cinema lovers worldwide.
