From Haryanvi heartbreak song to Spider-Man Brand New Day: How Banjaare breached MCU

In 2023, an unlikely collaboration between a Haryanvi duo and Marvel's Spider-Man: Brand New Day has sparked a wave of popularity for the indie duo Banjaare. The brothers, Sumit and Anuj, released a Haryanvi heartbreak song titled "Barsaat" that caught the attention of Sony Pictures Entertainment India and Sony Music India. Impressed by the emotional resonance of the song, the music labels asked Banjaare to recreate it from a male perspective for a promotional campaign featuring Peter Parker from the Spider-Man film.

This unexpected twist has resulted in the song being heard by over 12 million fans in India. The brothers' journey into music began during the COVID lockdown when they started experimenting and releasing their work. They gained attention with their earlier songs "Bairan" and "Barsaat," which explored themes of heartbreak and longing.

Unlike many artists who craft their lyrics based on trends, Banjaare create songs based on their current emotions and thoughts. They resist the notion that every song must have a specific backstory. Their creative process is instinctive, and they have explored various topics beyond heartbreak. The emotional connection listeners feel when hearing their songs, rather than mere view counts, has been the strongest indicator of their impact.

Banjaare have received messages from individuals sharing personal stories of heartbreak and relationships, expressing how the music helped them heal and let go. The name "Banjaare" holds significance for the duo, as it is derived from an Indo-Aryan word meaning a hilly tribe carrying goods. The brothers explained that their music represents storytelling and travel, encapsulated by the tradition of "chaap chhodna," where writers leave their mark on compositions.

By challenging the perception of Haryanvi music, which is often associated with dance numbers and local performances, Banjaare aim to showcase the broader musical tradition of the region.