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Some Bollywood solo songs with youthful vibes

Posted in The Magic of Movies!, tagged , , , , , , , , on December 29, 2024| 2 Comments »

One of the compensations for leaving behind the phase of adolescence is a wholesome optimism that envelopes us in our youth. Yes, it does take the fine edge off the series of infatuations and whatever semi-romantic triumphs of a transient nature may have come our way in our formative years. But it has the admirable effect of making us believe that our Guardian Angels are working overtime to ensure that our cup is overflowing with hopes for a brighter future, whether professionally or personally. We are in an exuberant state of mind where the sun will always keep shining, the grass will always be green, flowers will forever be in bloom, and God will continue to be in heaven.

Our dream merchants have often showcased this state of affairs. Our heroes and heroines can be found admiring nature while belting out a melodious song, duly backed by a well-equipped orchestra amid the wilderness. In some cases, they are shown to realise that life is nothing but a journey, comprising ups and downs and twists and turns. A few are introspective, exemplifying the bliss of solitude, whereas some dream of a great career ahead.

Given the penchant of Bollywood to keep spinning romantic yarns, most of such solos showcase the inner yearning to run into a potential soul mate. One waits for a Cupid’s arrow to strike one sooner rather than later. A sinister restlessness creeps in and the unfulfilled desire for heartfelt companionship governs one’s behaviour. The latent wish to identify The Chosen One who will soon be swaying us off our feet gets expressed with gay abandon. A romantic spring is in the offing. Of interest here are songs wherein the party of the first part has dreams in his/her eyes and is seeking love, wandering around as a sole atom. The party of the second part is yet to appear on the horizon.

Here is a random sample of some such songs from Hindi movies.

A Communion with Mother Nature

Against a captivating landscape, our heroes and heroines cannot be blamed for feeling overawed and expressing their love for lush green mountains, sparkling lakes, roaring waterfalls, and the gentle rustle of water in a rivulet nearby.

Suhana safar aur ye mausam haseen

Movie: Madhumati (1958)

Music: Salil Chowdhury

Lyrics: Shailendra

Singer: Mukesh

Ye kaun chitrakar hai

Movie: Boond Jo Ban Gayi Moti (1967)

Music: Satish Bhatia

Lyrics: Bharat Vyas

Singer: Mukesh

Dil ye chota sa

Movie: Roja (1992)

Music: A.R. Rahman

Lyrics: P. K. Mishra

Singer: Minmini

Barso re

Movie: Guru (2007)

Music: A.R. Rahman

Lyrics: Gulzar

Singer: Shreya Ghoshal

Music: Food for the Soul

Occasionally, we get gently reminded of the unique power of music. The main protagonist finds music in whatever is happening in the environment. Mundane occurrences generate mellifluous notes which act like a balm for our frayed nerves.

Aawara bhanwre

Sapney (1997)

Music: A R Rahman

Lyricist: Javed Akhtar

Singer: Hema Sardesai

Sunne wale sun lete hain

Movie: Saaz (1998)

Music: Zakir Hussain, Bhupen Hazarika, Raj Kamal, Yashwant Dev

Lyricist: Javed Akhtar

Singers: Suresh Wadkar, Shraddha Pandit, Shweta Pandit

The Bliss of Solitude

Whether steering a vehicle on a busy road, relishing an introspective saunter in wooded hills, or riding a horse-driven carriage through a rural setting, reflecting on the purpose of life, these songs tug at our heartstrings.

Le chala jidhar ye dil nikal padey

Movie: Miss Bombay (1957)

Music: Hansraj Behl

Lyrics: Prem Dhawan

Singer: Mohd. Rafi

Kuchch dil ne kaha

Movie: Anupama (1966)

Music: Hemant Kumar

Lyrics: Kaifi Azmi

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Musafir hoon yaaron

Movie: Parichay (1972)

Music: R D Burman

Lyrics: Gulzar

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Jhooti mooti mitwa

Movie: Rudaali (1993)

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Lyrics: Gulzar

Music: Bhupen Hazarika

Celebrating freedom

Oh, the sheer joy of having freed oneself from the shackles of life and dreaming of soaring high in the sky!

Panchi banoon udti chaloon

Movie: Chori Chori (1956)

Music: Shankar – Jaikishan

Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Dil mera ek aas ka panchi

Movie: Aas Ka Panchi (1961)

Music: Shankar – Jaikishan

Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri

Singer: Subir Sen

Udke pawan ke sang chaloongi

Movie: Shagird (1967)

Music: Laxmikant – Pyarelal

Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Dil chahta hai

Movie: Dil Chahta Hai (2001)

Music: Shankar – Ehsaan – Loy

Lyrics: Javed Akhtar

Singer: Shankar Mahadevan

Dil dhadakne do

Movie: Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011)

Music: Shankar – Ehsaan – Loy

Lyrics: Javed Akhtar

Singers: Suraj Jagan, Joi Barua, Shankar Mahadevan

Jugni

Movie: Queen (2014)

Music: Amit Trivedi

Lyrics: Anvita Dutt

Singer: Amit Trivedi

Love you, zindagi

Movie: Dear Zindagi (2016)

Music: Amit Trivedi

Lyrics: Kausar Munir

Singer: Jasleen Royal

The Lonely Wanderers

Most of the time, we come across characters who wander hither and thither. They are keenly looking forward to an intense phase of courtship and, hopefully, an eventual walk down the aisle. The search for The Chosen One has begun in right earnest.

Hum hain rahi pyar ke

Movie: Nau Do Gyarah (1957)

Music: S.D. Burman

Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Ban ke panchi

Movie: Anari (1959)

Music: Shankar – Jaikishan

Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Lakhon hain nigah mein

Movie: Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon (1963)

Music: O. P. Nayyar

Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Singer: Mohd. Rafi

Kahin na kahin dil lagana padega

Movie: Kashmir Ki Kali (1964)

Music: O. P. Nayyar

Lyrics: S. H. Bihari

Singer: Mohd. Rafi

Pukarta chala hoon main

Movie: Mere Sanam (1965)

Music: O. P. Nayyar

Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Singer: Mohd. Rafi

Ye samaan, samaan hai ye pyar ka

Movie: Jab Jab Phool Khile (1965)

Music: Kalyanji Anandji

Lyrics: Anand Bakshi

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Ye dil na hota bechara

Movie: Jewel Thief (1967)

Music: S. D. Burman

Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Bhai battoor

Movie: Padosan (1968)

Music: R.D. Burman

Lyrics: Rajendra Krishan

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Mere sapnon ki rani

Movie: Aradhana (1969)

Music: S. D. Burman

Lyrics: Anand Bakshi

Singer: Kishore Kumar

O ghata saanwari

Movie: Abhinetri (1970)

Music: Laxmikant Pyarelal

Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Aaj unse pehli mulaquat hogi

Movie: Paraya Dhan (1971)

Music: R. D. Burman

Lyrics: Anand Bakshi

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Mausam hai ashiquana

Movie: Pakeezah (1971)

Music: Ghulam Mohammed

Lyrics: Kamal Amrohi

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Meet na mila re man ka

Movie: Abhimaan (1973)

Music: S. D. Burman

Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Ek raasta hai zindagi

Movie: Kaala Patthar (1979)

Music: Rajesh Roshan

Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi

Singers: Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar

Papa kehte hain

Movie: Qayamat se Qayamat Tak (1988)

Music: Anand Milind

Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Singer: Udit Narayan

Mere khwabon mein jo aaye

Movie: Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (1995)

Music: Jatin – Lalit

Lyrics: Anand Bakshi

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Bholi si surat

Movie: Dil To Pagal Hai (1997)

Music: Uttam Singh

Lyrics: Anand Bakshi

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Udit Narayan

Kyon Hawa

Movie: Veer-Zara (2004)

Music: Late Madan Mohan

Music Recreated by: Sanjeev Kohli

Lyrics: Javed Akhtar

Voices: Yash Chopra, Lata Mangeshkar, Sonu Nigam

Challa

Movie: Jab Tak Hai Jaan (2012)

Music: A. R. Rahman

Lyrics: Gulzar

Singer: Rabbi Shergill

It is not that Bollywood does not believe in gender parity. Whether it is admiring the innate beauty of nature, realising the link between nature and music, soaring high like Jonathan Livingston Seagull and enjoying freedom, relishing the bliss of solitude, or looking out for The Chosen One, Bollywood does not discriminate between genders, ethnicity, caste, and religion.

As to the dashers who are like lonely wanderers, they often express their desire to be hit by an arrow of Cupid’s without any hesitation. Once a soul mate has been identified, a hectic phase of wooing dawns, wherein both parties can be seen cooing to each other like turtle doves. Love blossoms. Parental opposition is overcome. Nasty interference by a villain gets neutralised — eventually, love triumphs. Just before The End sign rolls up, the couple can be spotted rushing off to a honeymoon in a garishly decorated limousine, with the legend Just Married prominently adorning its boot.

The audience breathes easy, grateful that the movie has finally ended. However, they are blissfully unaware if the sheen of perfection that had enveloped the party of the other part so far might have a limited shelf life. Sometime after the couple walks down the aisle, scales could fall from their eyes, eventually mummifying the corpse of love.

Related Posts:

Nine shades of wooing in Bollywood and the #MeToo movement
Different ways in which Bollywood heroines express their love
Some Songs Close to My Heart! (Part 1 of 2)
Some Songs Close to My Heart! (Part 2 of 2)

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Remembering The Timeless Voice of Ameen Sayani: Guest Post by Anupam Ganguli

Posted in The Magic of Movies!, tagged , , , , , , , , on December 23, 2024| Leave a Comment »

A voice that once resonated in the hearts of millions, Ameen Sayani’s journey through the golden age of radio is quite like a poetic legacy.

RJ-ing may be deemed modern and cool, but decades ago, Sayani redefined the art of storytelling, transforming radio waves into a mesmerising canvas of music, humour and heartfelt connection.

Through Binaca Geet Mala, later Cibaca Geet Mala, he brought alive songs in the minds of his listeners, making every home a stage and every heart a participant.

Sayani’s style was a symphony of modesty and charm.

Unlike the exuberant style of today’s RJs, he spoke softly, weaving nuggets of trivia, artiste anecdotes and public sentiments into a magical fabric.

His humour was gentle yet infectious, his knowledge vast yet accessible.

Listeners adored him for this balance, often valuing his voice over the songs he introduced.

The anticipation surrounding Binaca Geet Mala was unequalled.

Each week, families would assemble around the radio, waiting with bated breath to hear which song had claimed the coveted number one spot.

Behind the scenes, Sayani and his team meticulously curated rankings, with decisions accepted unquestioningly, a nod to his credibility.

Songs retired after 25 runs were saluted with dignity and a bugle, a ritual that amplified the programme’s charm.

In an era when radios were scarce, Sayani’s voice unified neighbourhoods, families, and even nations.

Broadcasting via Radio Ceylon, Binaca Geet Mala held sway for an extraordinary 42 years, a record that remains unbeaten.

His catchphrase greeting Bhaiyon aur behnon became a cultural phenomenon, as did the thousands of letters he received monthly from devoted fans.

Artistes revered him.

For musicians, singers, and composers, landing on Sayani’s charts was akin to earning a badge of honour.

The industry hung on his words, their hearts racing at his every announcement.

Such was his influence that Binaca Geet Mala turned chart-topping songs into timeless classics.

Beyond his flagship show, Sayani helmed iconic programmes like S. Kumar’s Filmi Mukadma and the Bournvita Quiz Contest.

His staggering repertoire, over 54,000 radio programmes and 19,000 jingles, stands as a monumental feat in broadcasting history.

Fluent in multiple languages, he reached a diverse audience, his voice bridging cultural and linguistic divides with ease.

Born in Bombay on 21st December, 1931, Sayani’s journey began at Scindia School and St. Xavier’s College, but it was his golden voice that would etch his name into history.

Honoured with the Padma Shri in 2009, he also made cameo appearances in a few films like Bhoot Bangla and Teen Deviyaan.

On 21st February, 2024, at the age of 91, Ameen Sayani’s voice fell silent.

Yet, his echo lingers, a melodic reminder of an era when radio was king, and one man’s voice united a nation.

Note

  1. Collage visual courtesy the world wide web.
  2. This article had first appeared in The Reviewer Collective group on Facebook.

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Some Songs Close to My Heart! (Part 2 of 2)
Bollywood’s Love Affair with Umbrellas: Guest Post by Anupam Ganguli

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‘Ten of my favourite title songs’: Guest Post by Dustedoff

Posted in The Magic of Movies!, tagged , , , on July 17, 2024| Leave a Comment »

https://madhulikaliddle.com/2024/06/23/ten-of-my-favourite-title-songs/?page_id=27411

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Some Songs Close to My Heart! (Part 1 of 2)
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Bhagavad Gita and Some Bollywood Songs

Posted in The Magic of Movies!, tagged , , , , , , on June 14, 2024| 14 Comments »

Bhagavad Gita, one of the most revered scriptures from India, is rather esoteric in nature. Many of us dread wading into its deep waters to understand the profound truths it mentions. If we were to overcome our hesitation, we are apt to find ways that could enable us to lead happier and more fulfilling lives.

Bhagavad Gita is a great manual of motivation. At its beginning, we find a confused and despondent Arjuna who wants to abandon his duties as a warrior and wonders how he could kill his family seniors, teachers, and cousins. A friendly dialogue between him and Lord Krishna follows. We learn of the immortality of the soul. We understand the virtues of equanimity. We are briefed on the nuances of Karma Yoga, Gyan Yoga, and Bhakti Yoga. The need to rein in our ego, desires, anger, and senses gets highlighted. So does the importance of practicing detachment from the rewards of any work or action taken. We are advised to always live in the present. We understand the role of free will and destiny in our lives. In essence, we learn how to live a happier and contented life.

By the end of the seven hundred verses, we find a mentally rejuvenated and motivated Arjuna, willing to stand up for the rights of himself and his brothers and fight a war that would uphold dharma, the path of righteousness.    

Bollywood has no dearth of poets who keep churning out soul-stirring lyrics, some of which connect us to what Bhagavad Gita says. Movie songs are meant for mass entertainment and contain messages in simple words, whereas the lessons from the scripture happen to be rather complex. Even though a perfect match is not possible, it is instructive to see if the underlying thoughts of these two diverse streams match to some extent.

Here is a random selection of Hindi movie songs that, I believe, could help us grasp a bit of some of the key lessons that the scripture offers.     

Despondency

Almost all of us have passed through quite a few depressing phases in our lives. Times when things looked hopeless. Occasions when we thought of running away from it all. We could not see things clearly. Confusion prevailed.

Aye mere dil kahin aur chal…

Movie: Daag (1952)

Singer: Talat Mahmood

Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Lyrics: Shailendra

Teri duniya mein jeene se…

Movie: House No. 44 (1955)

Singer: Hemant Kumar

Music: S. D. Burman

Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi

Ye duniya agar mil bhi jaaye…

Movie: Pyaasa (1957)

Singer: Mohd. Rafi

Music: S. D. Burman

Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Z6Lr0JYAro

Immortality

Movie songs which speak of this facet of our souls invariably have a love-based background. However, the underlying sentiment remains the same.

Sau baar janam lenge…

Movie: Ustadon Ke Ustad (1963)

Singer: Mohd. Rafi

Music: Ravi

Lyrics: Asad Bhopali

Janam janam ka saath hai…

Movie: Tumse Achcha Kaun Hai (1969)

Singer: Mohd. Rafi

Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri

Janam Janam ka saath hai…

Movie: Bheegi Palkein (1982)

Singers: Mohd. Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar

Music: Jugal Kishore–Tilak Raj

Lyrics: M. G. Hashmat

Equanimity

Not getting unduly elated when something positive happens, and not getting overly sad when something negative happens – well, it is not easy to reach a mental state of that kind. But we can surely take inspiration from some of our heroes who speak about it.  

Mein zindagi ka saath nibhata chala gaya…

Movie: Hum Dono (1961)

Singer: Mohd. Rafi

Music: Jaidev

Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi

Ye jeevan hai…

Movie: Piya Ka Ghar (1972)

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Music: Laxmikant Pyarelal

Lyrics: Anand Bakshi

Ye jeena hai angoor ka daana…

Movie: Khatta Meetha (1978)

Singers: Kishore Kumar, Usha Mangeshkar

Music: Rajesh Roshan

Lyrics: Gulzar

Duty

Performing our duty to the best of our ability is what Bhagavad Gita recommends. In fact, it emphasises that our right is only to do work, not to its reward. As mortal beings, we have no other option but to keep working.  

Suraj re jalte rehna…

Movie: Harishchandra Taramati (1963)

Singer: Hemant Kumar

Music: Laxmikant Pyarelal

Lyrics: Pradeep

Nadiya chale chale ye dhara…

Movie: Safar (1970)

Singer: Manna Dey

Music: Kalyanji Anandji

Lyrics: Indeevar

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iHK3D7jlqls

Ruk jaana nahin…

Movie: Imtihan (1974)

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Music: Laxmikant Pyarelal

Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Knowledge

Acquiring knowledge need not always be a boring part of our lives. Learning is not necessarily about the tyranny of a classroom. It can also be fun.  

Eechak dana, beechak dana…

Movie: Shri 420 (1955)

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Mukesh

Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Lyrics: Hasrat Jaipuri

Bum bum bole…

Movie: Taare zameen par (2007)

Singers: Shaan, Armaan Malik, Aamir Khan

Music: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy

Lyrics: Prasoon Joshi

Khol de par…

Movie: Hichki (2018)

Singer: Arijit Singh

Music: Jasleen Royal

Lyrics: Raj Shekhar

Devotion

To be in a state of constant remembrance of the divine is to enjoy unalloyed bliss. Surrender to a higher power follows.  

Ae malik tere bande hum…

Movie: Do Aankhen Barah Haath (1957)

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Music: Vasant Desai

Lyrics: Bharat Vyas

Ye kaun chitrakaar hai…

Movie: Boond Jo Ban Gayi Moti (1967)

Singer: Mukesh

Music: Satish Bhatia

Lyrics: Bharat Vyas

Khwaja mere khwaja…

Movie: Jodha Akbar (2008)

Singer and Composer: A. R. Rahman

Lyrics: Kashif

Detachment

We love being in our comfort zones. We place a higher premium on relationships the true worth of which is known only when we face a disaster in our lives. A realisation dawns that we should be grateful for whatever support we are receiving. After all, no one will die along with us. Attachment leads to disillusionment and disappointment. However, by remaining detached from rewards, relationships, and situations, we can lead a happier life.

Man re tu kaahe na dheer dhare…

Movie: Chitralekha (1964)

Singer: Mohd. Rafi

Music: Roshan

Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi

Yahan kaun hai tera, musafir…

Movie: Guide (1965)

Singer/Composer: S. D. Burman

Lyrics: Shailendra

Ek din bik jayega mati ke mol…

Movie: Dharam Karam (1975)

Singer: Mukesh

Music: R. D. Burman

Lyrics: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Reining in our desires

The Western concept of boosting economies is rooted in the concept of creating and fulfilling desires. However, Bhagavad Gita exhorts us to limit our desires, so as to attain a state of contentment and happiness.

Kai bar yuhin dekha hai…

Movie: Rajnigandha (1974)

Singer: Mukesh

Music: Salil Chowdhury

Lyrics: Yogesh

  Aye dil-e-nadaan…

Movie: Razia Sultan (1983)

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Music: Khayyam

Lyrics: Jan Nisar Akhtar

Hazaaron khwahishen aisi…

TV Series: Mirza Ghalib (1988)

Singer and Composer: Jagjit Singh

Destiny and Free Will

According to Bhagavad Gita, our past and present actions shape our destiny. It is within this paradigm that we exercise our so-called free will. Time exerts a mighty influence on the course of our lives.   

Waqt ne kiya kya haseen sitam…

      Movie : Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959)

      Singer: Geeta Dutt

      Music: S.D. Burman

      Lyrics: Kaifi Azmi

Waqt se din aur raat…

Movie: Waqt (1965)

Singer: Mohd. Rafi

Music Director: Ravi

Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi

Haathon ki chand lakeeron ka…

Movie: Vidhaata (1982)

Singer: Suresh Wadkar

Music Director: Kalyanji Anandji

Lyrics by: Anand Bakshi

Three kinds of attributes

Lord Krishna speaks of three gunas that are present in different proportions in all things and beings in the world. The interplay of these determines our character and governs our thoughts, our utterances, and our actions, thereby determining the progress of our lives.

Sattva denotes benevolence, calmness, goodness, and harmony. Rajas represents passion, activity, and movement. Tamas captures ignorance, inertia, malevolence, and laziness. The songs below follow in the same order.  

Kisiki muskurahaton pe ho nisaar…

Movie: Anari (1959)

Singer: Mukesh

Music Director: Shankar Jaikishan

Lyrics: Shailendra

Kandhon se milte hain kandhe…

Movie: Lakshya (2004)

Singers: Shankar Mahadevan, Sonu Nigam, Hariharan, Roop Kumar Rathod, Kunal Ganjawala and Vijay Prakash

Music: Shankar Ehsaan Loy

Lyrics: Javed Akhtar

Husn ke lakhon rang…

Movie: Johny Mera Naam (1970)

Singer: Asha Bhosle

Music: Kalyanji Anandji

Lyricist: Indeevar

Living in the present

There is no point in regretting what happened in the past. Nor is there any sense in worrying about what may happen in the future. By learning to remain in the present, we can live happier lives.

Aage bhi jaane na tu…

Movie: Waqt (1965)

Singer: Asha Bhosle

Music: Ravi

Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi

Aane wala pal jaane wala hai…

Movie: Golmaal (1979)

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Music: R. D. Burman

Lyrics: Gulzar

Ye lamha filhaal jeene de…

Movie: Filhaal (2002)

Singer: Asha Bhosle

Music: Anu Malik

Lyrics: Gulzar

Values and ethics  

A life lived without values and ethics is like a rudderless boat adrift on the high seas. A compass of fairness and justice can help us to navigate the choppy waters better.

Insaaf ki dagar pe…

Movie: Gunga Jamuna (1961)

Singer: Hemant Kumar

Music: Naushad

Lyrics: Shakeel Badayuni

Hothon pe sachchai rehti hai…

Movie: Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behati Hai (1961)

Singer: Mukesh

Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Lyrics: Shailendra

Sajan re jhoot mat bolo…

Movie: Teesri Kasam (1966)

Singer: Mukesh

Music: Shankar Jaikishan

Lyrics:  Shailendra

Constant Remembrance

The yearning of a soul to get united with the Supreme gets captured rather poignantly in these compositions.

O re manjhi…

Movie: Bandini (1963)

Singer and Composer: S. D. Burman

Lyrics: Shailendra

Laga chunri mein daag…

Movie: Dil Hi To Hai (1963)

Singer: Manna Dey

Music: Roshan and Omi Sonik

Lyrics : Sahir Ludhianvi

How does one achieve this goal? Lord Krishna reveals to Arjuna the way He can be attained. Anyone who remains in a state of constant remembrance, even while engaged in worldly duties, can do so. Consider verse 56 from Chapter 18:

सर्वकर्माण्यपि सदा कुर्वाणो मद्व्यपाश्रय: |
मत्प्रसादादवाप्नोति शाश्वतं पदमव्ययम् || 18.56||

sarva-karmāṇy api sadā kurvāṇo mad-vyapāśhrayaḥ
mat-prasādād avāpnoti śhāśhvataṁ padam avyayam

Even performing all actions always taking refuge in Me, he attains through My grace, the eternal and immutable destination. (18.56)

Moving ahead

One of the unique features of the dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna is that whereas rich lessons are imparted by the teacher, there is no pressure on the disciple to follow the advice rendered. The decision is left to the disciple. He chooses to move ahead in life with renewed gusto and enthusiasm.   

Saathi haath badhana…

Movie: Naya Daur (1957)

Singers: Mohd. Rafi, Asha Bhosle

Music: O. P. Nayyar

Lyrics: Sahir Ludhianvi

Aaj phir jeene ki tamanna hai…

Movie: Guide (1965)

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Music: S. D. Burman

Lyrics: Shailendra

Thaan liya…

Movie: Dasvi (2022)

Singers: Sukhwinder Singh & Tanishkaa Sanghvi

Music: Sachin-Jigar

Lyrics: Ashish Pandit

Some key takeaways

Bhagavad Gita has a unique depth of thought. It paints a wide canvas of concepts. It not only puts the onus of living a fulfilling life on an aspirant but also offers an assurance by Lord Krishna. He commits Himself to the overall welfare of common folk. He promises that whenever there is a loss of dharma, He would return to the mortal world to destroy the negative forces.

Here is a composition rendered by Jagjit Singh which is worthy of our attention.

To sum up

Having gone through this blog post, some of you may take a jaundiced view and hold it to be a frivolous attempt which denigrates the Bhagavad Gita. Far from it. Instead, the idea here is to celebrate this unique scripture which explains the true reality of life. When these truths get conveyed in a simpler language, through the lyrics of Hindi movie songs, they become easier to grasp and brood upon.

Hopefully, this humble endeavour of mine would prompt you to pick up the original scripture itself and wade into its pristine waters which contain countless gems of wisdom.

Notes:

  1. The Krishna-Arjuna illustration is reproduced with permission from the illustrator, Arati Shedde, and Heartfulness Magazine – www.heartfulnessmagazine.com.)
  2. Thanks are due to Mr. Prakash Kanungo and Mr. S. G. Maheshwari for having suggested this topic. The idea came up during a get-together over a cup of tea some time during 2023.
  3. Inputs from Mr. H. C. Verma are gratefully acknowledged.
  4. Translation of Gita verse 18.56 courtesy Mr. Ashok Narain.

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The six seasons of Kalidasa in Bollywood
Why Bhagavad Gita is the ultimate self-help book: Guest post by Durga Prasad Dash
Some Songs Close to My Heart! (Part 1 of 2)
Some Songs Close to My Heart! (Part 2 of 2)
Management Lessons from the life of Lord Krishna

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The six seasons of Kalidasa in Bollywood: Summer

Posted in The Magic of Movies!, tagged , , , , , , on May 8, 2024| Leave a Comment »

The six seasons of Kalidasa in Bollywood: Summer

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Pangs of separation: Bollywood style

Posted in The Magic of Movies!, tagged , , , , , on January 20, 2023| Leave a Comment »

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When the brow is furrowed and the pangs of separation from one’s beloved have dethroned reason from its coveted seat, the mood turns a shade of deep blue.

Like all other strands of emotion captured by Bollywood, separation from the beloved has also not escaped the attention of our dream merchants. There are several songs which depict the intense feeling of desolation experienced by someone when the soul mate has gone missing. Whereas some herald the end of doom, so to say, few others are easier on the frayed nerves, laced as they happen to be with uplifting optimism and point to the possibility of a rosier future.

There is a beauty to sad songs which cannot be captured in words. These tug at one’s heart-strings and provide solace to a tormented soul. First off, let us relish a composition which celebrates the genre of sad songs.

The beauty of…

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Some spontaneous-sounding love songs from Bollywood

Posted in The Magic of Movies!, tagged , , , , , , , on December 29, 2022| 4 Comments »

Most of the songs in the movies being churned out by Bollywood happen to portray feelings of love. One often wonders as to how the heroine and the hero keep changing their outfits in each of the stanzas, keeping the wardrobe designers and producers laughing all the way to their respective banks. The high walls of manmade borders melt away, as they are seen wandering about on different continents of the world without any visa/immigration hassles, proving the age-old adage of Vasudhaiv Kutumbukam. Not to speak of the bevy of choreographers and a 100-piece orchestra which keeps following them scrupulously, without missing a single beat.

But once in a blue moon, we get treated to a love song which is more spontaneous in its depiction. The lyricist and the music director obviously work harder on creating such songs which appear as if these are getting composed by the couple in real time on the screen.

Consider the following songs which fall in this category. 

One of the very few love songs which has an office setting as a background.

Jaane kahaan mera jigar gaya ji…

Movie: Mrs and Mr 55 (1955)

Singers: Mohd. Rafi, Geeta Dutt

Music Director: O P Nayyar

Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u7Jl-WDeUo4

 Here is a flirtatious song from an otherwise serious movie. The back-and-forth chat between the heroine and the hero is a sheer delight.  

Hum aapki ankhon mein…

Movie: Pyasa (1957)

Singers: Mohammed Rafi, Geeta Dutt

Music Director: S D Burman

Lyricist: Sahir Ludianvi

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBTcsTd2kF0

What happens when a lovers’ tiff results into a lovelorn backchat between the pair?

Achha ji main haari chalo…

Movie: Kala Pani (1958)

Singers: Mohd. Rafi & Asha Bhosle

Music: S.D. Burman

Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri

A mischievous heroine puts the poor hero through an ordeal and then has the cheek to teasingly ask as to how he is feeling!   

Haal kaisa hai janaab ka…

Movie: Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958)

Singers: Kishore Kumar, Asha Bhosle

Music Director: S.D.Burman

Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Claiming some dues from the party of the other part can happen even during a stage performance!

Paanch rupaiya barah anna…

Movie: Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958)

Singers: Kishore Kumar, Asha Bhosle

Music Director: S D Burman

Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wO5qkv6Fabg

How did you fall in love with me, asks the heroine coyly!

Sach bata tu mujh pe fida…

Movie: Sone ki chidiya (1958)

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Talat Mehmood

Music: O P Nayyar

Lyricist: Sahir Ludhianvi

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ThyPl4O47gM

Yet another song where bickering between a couple takes place during a stage performance.  

Tere pyar ka aasra chahta hoon…

Movie: Dhool Ka Phool (1959)

Singers: Mahendra Kapoor, Lata Mangeshkar

Music Director: N. Datta

Lyricist: Sahir Ludhianvi

A romantic poem gets composed as the hero plays a muse to the heroine.

Chupke se mile pyaase pyaase…

Movie: Manzil (1960)

Singers: Geeta Dutt, Mohammed Rafi

Music Director: S. D. Burman

Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri

The lovers list the precautions the party of the other part should take, lest any harm may come to the flora and fauna around.

Bikhra ke zulfien chaman mein na jaana…

Movie: Nazrana (1961)

Singers: Mukesh, Lata Mangeshkar

Music Director: Ravi

Lyricist: Rajendra Krishan

A delectable confluence of Carnatic and Hindustani music, this song captures the rivalry between two persons, both trying to woo the young lady.

Ek chatur naar…

Movie: Padosan (1968)

Singers: Manna Dey, Kishore Kumar

Music Director: R D Burman

Lyrics: Rajendra Krishan

Getting the beloved to accept that she loves the lover.

Baagon mein bahaar hai…

Movie: Aradhana (1969)

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Mohd. Rafi

Music Director: S D Burman

Lyricist: Anand Bakshi

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUWaGkirRoY

Even surreptitious meetings between a couple get overshadowed by the heroine’s wish to return home early!

Achha to hum chalte hain…

Movie: Aan Milo Sajna (1970)

Singers: Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar

Music Director: Laxmikant-Pyarelal

Lyricist: Anand Bakshi

Strictly speaking, only the first portion of this song happens to be dialogue-driven. Nevertheless, overall, it surely has a dash of spontaneity to it!  

Sa re ga ma pa…

Movie: Abhinetri (1970)

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar

Music Director: Laxmikant-Pyarelal

Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri

The subtle art of dodging the police by showcasing a clandestine meet as a lovers’ date.

O mere raja, khafa na hona…

Movie: Johnny Mera Naam (1970)

Singers: Kishore Kumar, Asha Bhosle

Music Director: Kalyanji Anandji

Lyricist: Rajinder Krishan

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O591bcp0T4A

A budding romance soon gets transformed into a life-long commitment.

Aap yahaan aaye kisliye…

Movie: Kal Aaj Aur Kal (1971)

Singers: Kishore Kumar, Asha Bhosle

Music Director: Shankar Jaikishan

Lyricist: Neeraj

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pkbagEOPIto

Social barriers and taboos keep the heroine on tenterhooks, whereas the hero is not worried about such mundane issues.

Gir gaya jhumka…

Movie: Jugnu (1973)

Music Director: S D Burman

Singers: Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar

Lyricist: Anand Bakshi

Two playful songs, depicting the sprouting of romantic feelings between two teenagers.  

Mujhe kuchh kehna hai…

Hum tum ek kamre mein band hon…

Movie: Bobby (1973)

Singers: Shailendra Singh, Lata Mangeshkar

Music Director: Laxmikant Pyarelal

Lyrics: Anand Bakshi

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwRFne44aT0
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tBJj-3sgcd0

Couplets (dohas) of such Sufi poets as Rahim and Kabir have regaled generations with pristine wisdom, duly laced with an earthy common sense. Trust Rajshri Productions to string some of these together for our sake.   

Bade badaai na karen…

Movie: Ankhiyon Ke Jharokhon Se (1978)

Singers: Hemalata, Jaspal Singh

Music Director: Ravindra Jain

Lyrics: Dohas of Rahim and Kabir

Keep the dialogue on and love will soon follow it its wake!

Suniye, kahiye…

Movie: Baton Baton Mein (1979)

Singers: Kishore Kumar, Asha Bhosle

Music Director: Rajesh Roshan

Lyricist: Amit Khanna

The hero regales a bunch of kids with a juicy story about his encounter with a lion.

Mere paas aao mere doston…

Movie: Mr. Natwarlal (1979)

Singer: Amitabh Bachchan, Master Ravi

Music Director: Rajesh Roshan

Lyricist: Anand Bakshi

The hero and the heroine are cooing to each other like turtle doves. They keep rhyming words and phrases and end up creating an impromptu song!

Kaise ho pagal…

Movie: Chashme Buddoor (1981)

Singers: Raj Kamal, Hemanti Shukla

Music Director: Raj Kamal

Lyricist: Indu Jain

When his six younger brothers fall hopelessly in love, the elder one guides them!

Pyaar tumhen kis mod pe le aaya…

Movie: Satte Pe Satta (1982)

Singers: Kishore Kumar, Bhupinder and others

Music Director: R D Burman

Lyricist: Gulshan Bawra

These are songs which, I believe, showcase a higher level of creativity on the part of our lyricists and music directors. To bring in a spontaneity of this kind is no mean task. Alas, these are very few and far between.

Can you think of any songs which could be added to this list? If so, please leave behind a comment below.  

{Note: Inputs from Ms Madhulika Liddle, Mr Sunil Jain and Ms Pooja Agrawal are gratefully acknowledged}.

Related Posts:

Ten of my favourite ‘not-quite-duet’ songs
Some Songs Close to My Heart! (Part 1 of 2)
POPULAR CYCLE SONGS OF BOLLYWOOD
Pangs of separation: Bollywood style
The six seasons of Kalidasa in Bollywood
Ten of my favourite Aankhen songs

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Some Songs Close to My Heart! (Part 2 of 2)

Posted in The Magic of Movies!, tagged , , , on October 25, 2022| 8 Comments »

Life is often full of contradictions. Our desire for companionship of someone special in our life co-exists with a gnawing realization that we need to accept the reality and be happy to live in a state of separation, if necessary, and not keep complaining about it. Women need the necessary space in a relationship to be able to pursue their own ambitions and career goals.

Tere bina…

Movie: Aandhi (1975)

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar

Composer: R D Burman

Lyricist: Gulzar

Songs with simple lyrics and a dash of classical music never fail to regale one!

Jab deep jale aana…

Movie: Chitchor (1976)

Singers: K J Yesudas, Hemlata

Composer/Lyricist: Ravindra Jain

The male version of this lovely song is a song of passionate romance, whereas the female one deeply resents a separation forced by circumstances. Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma and Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia regale us with this poignant composition.   

Neela asmaan so gaya…

Movie: Silsila (1981)

Singers: Amitabh Bachchan, Lata Mangeshkar

Composers: Shiv, Hari

Lyricist: Javed Akhtar

This one captures the agony of a lover who believes that the other one deserves a better soul mate in life.

Tumko dekha to ye khayal aaya…

Movie: Saath Saath (1982)

Singers: Jagjit Singh, Chitra Singh

Composer: Kuldeep Singh

Lyricist: Javed Akhtar

When we turn a hypocrite and try to hide our tears with an artificial smile, a person who really cares for us is quick to spot it.

Tum itna jo muskura rahe ho…

Movie: Arth (1982)

Singer/Composer: Jagjit Singh

Lyricist: Kaifi Azmi

Some time back, I had listed out my favourite lullabies from Bollywood. Permit me to list here an outstanding one.

Surmayee akhiyon mein…

Movie: Sadma (1983)

Singer: K J Yesudas

Composer: Ilaiyaraaja

Lyricist: Gulzar

Here is an introspective song which makes us think of what the purpose of our life really is. Do we really know what we desire and yearn for? 

Aye dil-e-naadaan…

Movie: Razia Sultan (1983)

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Composer: Khayyam

Lyricist: Jan Nisaar Akhtar

There are times when even a highly talented person like Gulzar outshines himself. This song is a ready example of the same and showcases the yearning of a beloved for closure in a relationship. 

Mera kuchh saamaan…

Movie: Ijaazat (1987)

Singer: Asha Bhosle

Composer: R D Burman

Lyricist: Gulzar

Lilting music, captivating visuals, and the sizzling chemistry between the lead couple – all these go on to make this song an enticing romantic offering!

Tere mere hothon pe…

Movie: Chandni (1989)

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Babla Mehta

Composers: Shiv, Hari

Lyricist: Anand Bakshi

Rains have arrived, but the beloved is yet to arrive, despite his having promised to do so!

Jhooti mooti mitwa aawan bole…

Movie: Rudaali (1993)

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Composer: Bhupen Hazarika

Lyricist: Gulzar

Here is a lovely romantic song from the stable of Rajshri Productions.

Pehla pehla pyar hai…

Movie: Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994)

Singer: S. P. Balasubrahmanyam

Composers: Raam Laxman

Lyrics: Dev Kohli

This song gives us hope that there is always someone out there in the universe who is destined to be our soulmate.

Ek dooje ke vaste…

Movie: Dil To Pagal Hai (1997)

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Hariharan

Composer: Uttam Singh

Lyricist: Anand Bakshi

This beautiful composition is surely dedicated to those who have suffered the pain of unrequited love; also, to those whose spouses have chosen to move on from this planet to the Brighter World.

Main bhool jaun tumhe…

Album: Silsilay (1998)

Singer/Composer: Jagjit Singh

Lyricist: Javed Akhtar

As mentioned elsewhere, here is a touching lullaby which would surely put a kid to sleep.

Door kahin ek aam ki bagiya…

Movie: Zubeida (2001)

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Composer: A R Rehman

Lyricist: Javed Akhtar

The love between Radha and Krishna is the stuff of legend and folklore. Bollywood has never quite shied away from offering famous song-and-dance sequences to us based on the same. Songs like Hamen gop gwala kehte hain…(Navrang, 1955) and Mohe panghat pe…(Mughal-E-Azam, 1960) readily pop up in our minds. The latest version brings in the dancing skills of Madhuri Dixit, duly backed by Birju Maharaj’s choreography, music and lyrics.

Kaahe chhed chhed mohe…

Movie: Devdas (2002)

Singers: Birju Maharaj, Madhuri Dixit, Kavita Krishnamurthy

Composer/Lyricist: Birju Maharaj

This song effectively captures the innate desire of a female to bear a child, her vivid imagination of the physical form much before she brings him/her into this world.  

Kyun baar baar…

Movie: Filhaal (2002)

Singer: K S Chithra

Composer: Anu Malik

Lyricist: Gulzar

Some directors happen to have a keen ear for soulful music. Think of Raj Kapoor, Gulzar, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, and, of course, Yash Chopra. Decades may have passed, but the embers of undying commitment between two star-crossed lovers and their affection for each other continue to glow unabated. 

Tere liye…

Movie: Veer Zaara (2004)

Singers: Suresh Wadkar, Lata Mangeshkar

Composers: Madan Mohan, Sanjiv Kohli

Lyricist: Javed Akhtar

A lovely romantic song which captures the growing affection between two lovers separated by the high walls of material wealth and other societal concerns.

Piyu bole…

Movie: Parineeta (2004)

Singers: Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal

Composer: Shantanu Moitra

Lyricist: Swanand Kirkire

Indian scriptures tell us that the unbound souls in the universe decide the kind of next life they need in view of their past karma and choose their parents accordingly. Children descend from the heavens above and bestow profound hope and joy upon their family seniors. They deserve all the love and respect they can get.      

Taare zameen par…

Movie: Taare Zameen Par (2007)

Singers: Shankar Mahadevan, Bugs Bhargava, Vivinenne Pocha

Composers: Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy

Lyricist: Prasoon Joshi

All of us have role models in our lives. These are persons who are better gifted than us in so many ways. We go to great lengths to remain in their orbits. This song vividly captures the search of three class fellows for their long-lost role model.   

Kahaan gaya usey dhoondo…

Movie: 3 Idiots (2009)

Singer: Shaan

Composer: Shantanu Moitra

Lyricist: Swanand Kirkire

Our homes and hearths are not mere blocks of bricks and mortar. Small moments of shared happiness, an abiding love and harmony between those who populate a dwelling, and tantalizing dreams, bring in the real warmth. And that is how a house becomes a home.   

Itti si khushi…

Movie: Barfi! (2012)

Singers: Shreya Ghoshal, Nikhil Paul George

Composer: Pritam

Lyricist: Swanand Kirkire

Yet another love song which captivates our hearts.

Chaar kadam…

Movie: PK 2014

Singers: Shaan, Shreya Ghoshal

Composer: Shantanu Moitra

Lyricist: Swanand Kirkire

Bollywood has offered us a few songs where the virtues of a mother are showcased by a loving son. Here is a rare one where it is the daughter who is expressing her love and admiration for the mother.

Meri pyari ammi…

Movie: Secret Superstar (2017)

Singer: Meghna Mishra

Composer: Amit Trivedi

Lyricist: Kausar Munir

I am rather hesitant to take this subjective list any further for two reasons.

One, by no stretch of imagination can this list be considered an exhaustive one. There are so many good songs which are available to us. However, out of respect for your time and attention, I cannot simply go on adding many other songs. That would go on to make the listing a wee bit unwieldy. I confess that selecting the songs listed above has not been an easy task for me.

Two, even though there are many which are of recent origin and happen to be popular as of now, we need to allow them more time to mature and acquire an alluring flavour in our emotional casks. I think the shelf-life of these can only be assessed after the lapse of a few years. I allude to such songs as Yaadon ki almaari…(Helicopter Eela; 2018), Teri mitti…(Kesari; 2019), Kitthe chaliye…(Shershaah; 2021) and Meri jaan…(Gangubhai Kathiawadi; 2022).

The Evolution of Bollywood Music

Over the decades, our songs have evolved in more ways than one.

One kind of transformation which has taken place is in the character of the lyrics. In the past, elements of nature used to play an important role, especially when it came to effectively capturing the emotions being depicted on the screen. Think of Aaja sanam madhur chandni mein hum (Chori Chori; 1956) and O sajana, barkha bahaar aayi (Parakh; 1960). This is no longer true. Now, once in a while, we get treated to a song like Suraj hua maddham (Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham; 2001).

Also, gradually, the orchestra and the sound have elbowed out the lyrics somewhat. Songs which appealed to the audience not only for their deep layered meaning but also for their soulful music have become part of a rare breed. Philosophical truths of life have got relegated to the background. Thus, we have become used to getting entertained by offerings which accord a higher priority to our ears than to our minds. 

Moreover, with the new-found zeal for quick cuts, adroit camera work and the razzle-dazzle of a heightened visual appeal, we have virtually stopped hearing songs and have willy-nilly become reconciled to seeing them. Cinematography rules. Locations keep changing in quick succession. Even before we have had the chance to savour one, the next one pops up. The camera has become obtrusive. Even if a patriotic song like Teri mitti…comes up, we are exposed to a visual world which is in the fast forward mode. Since our eyes are constantly being bombarded with visual information, the hapless ear often has no other option but to take the back seat.  

Whatever may be the direction of evolution of songs, music remains a nourishment for the soul. The genre does not really matter. Our choices and preferences may differ widely. But what matters is the way it touches our hearts and resonates with our inner being.

Music makes us experience a glowing harmony between our inner and outer selves. It helps us to dig beneath the veneer of several masks that we wear in our mundane life. It also acts as a catalyst in our quest for our true inner selves, thereby raising our level of consciousness. Indeed, like all other forms of fine art, it washes off the dirt of our mundane lives and nurtures our souls.

Related Posts:

The wide spectrum of lullabies in Bollywood
Hats off to these movie directors!
Some Songs Close to My Heart! (Part 1 of 2)
Music: Food for the Soul
The Class of 1976: Some encounters of a musical kind
A Dash of Consciousness in Some of the Movies Offered by Bollywood

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Some Songs Close to My Heart! (Part 1 of 2)

Posted in The Magic of Movies!, tagged , , , , on October 21, 2022| 10 Comments »

Music forms an integral part of movies. If the background score keeps capturing human emotions of different hues in each of the scenes, songs heighten the sentiments in diverse situations faced by those on the screen. Lyricists play a crucial role by not only depicting the feelings of the characters involved, but also conveying deep philosophical truths of life at times.  

Some songs elevate our spirits and motivate us to get up after each tumble and restart chasing our dreams. Others bring us happiness, even if some of these might be intrinsically sad.

Some of you may remember a song which Talat Mehmood had rendered in his velvet-like soothing voice long time back:

Hein sabse madhur woh geet jinhen hum dard ke swar mein gaate hain…

Roughly translated, this says that the songs which are the sweetest are the ones which are set to the melody of sorrow! You may agree that Shailendra was not much off the mark when he wrote this for the 1953 movie Patita. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XagIs_0zgaY

Each song is a multi-layered offering. If the lyricist pens something heartful, the composer sets it to music which tugs at our heart strings. The characters finally breathe life into it, either by lip-syncing it or by going through the motions while the song itself plays in the background.

Here is a collection of some of the songs which are close to my heart. Songs appear here in a chronological order, ranging from the year 1939 and coming forward up to 2017.   

Whenever the chips are down and dark clouds cover your inner space, here is a song which can motivate you to move ahead in life with a steely resolve and a chin-up attitude.   

Karun kya aas niras bhayi…

Movie: Dushman,1939

Singer: K L Saigal,

Composer: Pankaj Mullick

Lyricist : Aarzoo Lucknowi

When a lover’s heart is pining away for the beloved, this song comes in handy.  

Suhaani raat dhal chuki…

Movie: Dulari (1949)

Singer: Mohammed Rafi

Composer: Naushad

Lyricist: Shakeel Badayuni

Here is a light-hearted and delightful experience in the art and craft of serenading, eventually prompting a reluctant heroine to overcome her hesitation and rush to meet the hero. Yet again, nature plays an important role in the proceedings.

Ye raat ye chandni phir kahaan…

Movie: Jaal (1952)

Singer: Hemant Kumar

Composer: S D Burman

Lyricist: Sahir Ludhianvi

This one is a romantic song which has soulful lyrics set to lilting music. The part that I find very touching is where the heroine imagines doing her make up while the hero quietly sits opposite her! Unfortunately, a YouTube search did not throw up the original movie footage.

Aa neele gagan tale pyar hum karein…

Movie: Badshah (1954)

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Hemant Kumar

Composer: Shankar Jaikishan

Lyricist: Hasrat Jaipuri

V. Shantaram had a penchant for offering us movies with a distinctive touch of classical music replete with songs which used different elements of nature to enhance a contemplative communion with it. Here, we find someone of the stature of Gopi Krishna showcasing his enchanting dancing skills opposite Sandhya. This movie had used santoor for the first time, played by the inimitable Pt. Shivkumar Sharma.   

Nain so nain nahi milao…

Movie: Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baje (1955)

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Hemant Kumar

Composer: Vasant Desai

Lyricist: Hasrat Jaipuri

Here is a flirtatious song from an otherwise serious movie. The back-and-forth chat between the heroine and the hero is a sheer delight.   

Hum aapki ankhon mein…

Movie: Pyasa (1957)

Singers: Mohammed Rafi, Geeta Dutt

Composer: S D Burman

Lyricist: Sahir Ludianvi

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vBTcsTd2kF0

Amongst the many songs steeped in chivalry that Bollywood has brought to us over the years, this one takes the cake. 

Pyar par bas to nahin…

Movie: Sone ki Chidiya (1958)

Singers: Talat Mehmood, Asha Bhosle

Composer: O P Nayyar

Lyricist: Sahir Ludhianvi

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYchgFUtmgo

What really defines true living? According to this song, there are three elements: having someone whose smiles you can fall for, borrowing and shouldering someone else’s pain, and having love for someone in your heart!

Kisi ki muskarahaton pe ho nisaar…

Movie: Anari (1959)

Singer: Mukesh

Composers: Shankar Jaikishan

Lyricist: Shailendra

How do we enthuse a soulmate to share his/her suffering with you? Here is a poignant appeal from a beloved, set to unobtrusive music by Jaidev.

Jahaan mein aisa kaun hai…

Movie: Hum Dono (1961)

Singer: Asha Bhosle

Composer: Jaidev

Lyricist: Sahir Ludhianvi

When a passionate wooer praises the one being wooed rather profusely, how does the latter respond? Towards the end of the song, the heroine starts wondering if the excessive praise being showered upon her could lead her to entertain feelings of unjustified pride. Here is a lesson in humility and equanimity.

Bahut shukriya badi meharbani…

Movie: Ek Musaafir Ek Haseena (1962)

Singers: Asha Bhosle, Mohammed Rafi

Composer: O P Nayyar

Lyricist: Raja Mehdi Ali Khaan

Here, Sahir Ludianvi tells us that issues which cannot be resolved in life are best concluded with a loving twist!

Chalo ek baar phir se…

Movie: Gumraah (1963)

Singer: Mahendra Kapoor

Composer: Ravi

Lyricist: Sahir Ludhianvi

Each song sung by Manna Dey is unique. Interestingly, this one is open to two interpretations. At the mundane level, the lady is wondering how she can return to her home and hearth when a part of her attire is soiled. At a spiritual level, it expresses the yearning of a soul to be reunited with God. 

Laaga chunari mein daag…

Movie: Dil Hi To Hai (1963)

Singer: Manna Dey

Composers: Roshan and Omi Sonik

Lyricist: Sahir Ludhianvi

The pathos of a failed love which does not get reciprocated by the party of the other part, so very aptly rendered by Rafi here, leaves one speechless. Simple lyrics and soothing music make it the perfect song for those facing a similar situation in life. 

Mein ye soch kar…

Movie: Haqeeqat (1964)

Singer: Mohammed Rafi

Composer: Madan Mohan

Lyricist: Kaifi Azmi

Here is another song which tugs at one’s heartstrings by capturing the frustration of loneliness arising out of a misunderstanding in a relationship. 

Din dhal jaaye…

Movie: Guide (1965)

Singer: Mohammed Rafi

Composer: S D Burman

Lyricist: Shailendra

When lovers express their gratitude for the other person’s presence in their lives, unalloyed joy swirls around in their midst. Also, a dash of the Karma theory propounded by Bhagavad Gita raises the philosophical quotient of this song rather high.     

Somewhere in my youth or childhood, I must have done something good…

Movie: The Sound of Music (1965)

Singers: Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer

Composer: Richard Rodgers

Lyricist: Oscar Hammerstein II

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bsx8xZ-P2y4&t=37s

Those who hail from the tribe of the delicately nurtured and believe in female empowerment these days might scoff at this song. However, the fact remains that love based on a deep-rooted loyalty towards each other is truly a sentiment to be cherished.  

Chhupaa lo yuun dil mein pyaar mera…

Movie: Mamta (1966)

Singers: Hemant Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar

Composer: Roshan

Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri

Many movies have captured the ambience of matrimonial bliss, with the couple exchanging meaningful and loving glances with each other. These are surely couples who have no use for the much-touted phrase ‘I love you’. Their body language says it all. Here is a song which never fails to touch my emotional chords.

Dheere dheere machal ae dil…

Movie: Anupama (1966)

Singer: Lata Mangeshkar

Composer: Hemant Kumar

Lyricist: Kaifi Azmi

Here is an uplifting offering which also fits rather well with the sustainability issues we just appear to be waking up to in our chaotic times when Mother Nature often sounds as if she is trying to punish homo sapiens for destroying its beauty and plundering its limited resources.  Human greed has taken over prudence, thereby increasing the entropy in the natural system.   

Ye kaun chitrakaar hai…

Movie: Boond Jo Ban Gayi Moti (1967)

Singer: Mukesh

Composer: Satish Bhatia

Lyricist: Bharat Vyas

By now, most of us are aware of the ills of social media, where people often talk without listening, dumping what they wish to say and completely ignoring what others are wanting to say. In movies, we keep running into those who talk without speaking. Their eyes, facial expressions and body language say it all. This song touched upon this aspect of our lives many decades back!

The sound of silence…

Movie: The Graduate (1967)

Singers/Composers: Paul Simon, Art Garfunkel

Lyricist: Paul Simon

When lyrics get penned in chaste Hindi by someone of the stature of Neeraj, set to music by the inimitable S D Burman, rendered by a multi-talented Kishore Kumar and the song features the evergreen Dev Anand, something unique happens. Add the picturesque locales of Switzerland, and magic follows!   

Phoolon ke rang se…

Movie: Prem Pujari (1970)

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Composer: S D Burman

Lyricist: Neeraj

Here is another heart pining for the beloved; sung by Hemant Kumar in his eternally soothing voice.

Tum pukaar lo…

Movie: Khamoshi (1970)

Singer/Composer: Hemant Kumar

Lyricist: Gulzar

Over the years, Bollywood has offered us many songs centred around the heroine’s eyes. Here is just one such which strengthens one’s desire to live a full life.

Jeevan se bhari teri aankhen…

Movie: Safar (1970)

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Composers: Kalyanji, Anandji

Lyricist: Indeevar (Shyamalal Babu Rai)

When one is in love, one accepts the person of the other part with all his/her strengths and weaknesses.

Koi jab tumhara hriday tod de…

Movie: Purab aur Paschim (1970)

Singer: Mukesh

Composer: Kalyanji, Anandji

Lyricist: Indeevar (Shyamlal Babu Rai)

One of the enchanting melodies from the inimitable Geeta Dutt, capturing the tender emotions of love between a couple.

Meri jaan, mujhe jaan na kaho…

Movie: Anubhav (1971)

Singer: Geeta Dutt

Composer: Kanu Roy

Lyricist: Gulzar

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6FkVPOMtvM

Life often makes us suffer the harsh slings and arrow of Fate, separating us from those whom we love. However, our Guardian Angels offer us life-long relationships with perfect strangers. Mukesh makes us brood over this facet of our lives.

Kaheen door jab din dhal jaaye…

Movie: Anand (1971)

Singer: Mukesh

Composer: Salil Chowdhury

Lyricist: Yogesh

When those who hurt us are the ones we consider our own, the hurt is indeed very deep.

Chingaari koi bhadke…

Movie: Amar Prem (1972)

Singer: Kishore Kumar

Composer: R. D. Burman

Lyricist: Anand Bakshi

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dPm8cUL7mKg

Death of a spouse brings about a sense of despondency which refuses to wither away even after a long time.  

Beeti na bitayee raina…

Movie: Parichay (1972)

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Bhupinder Singh

Composer: R. D. Burman

Lyricist: Gulzar

When relations between husband and wife turn sour, a tragedy proves to be a blessing in disguise, bringing them together, yet again. 

Tere mere milan ki ye raina…

Movie: Abhimaan (1973)

Singers: Lata Mangeshkar, Kishore Kumar

Composer: S D Burman

Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Dlr6SG7Vm4

What happens when there is uncertainty and confusion in our relationships in life? Here is a soulful song which speaks of our yearning to seek a clarity in our thoughts by controlling the endless desires of our heart.

Kayi baar yoon bhi dekha hai…

Music: Rajnigandha (1974)

Singer: Mukesh

Composer: Salil Chowdhury

Lyrics: Yogesh

(Continued…)

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Naina songs

Posted in The Magic of Movies!, tagged , , , , , , on February 27, 2021| Leave a Comment »

People who go away to the Brighter Worlds beyond often leave rich legacies behind. Ms Ira who was the creative person behind this unique blog site is no more with us. But her scintillating work remains. She continues to live amongst the hearts of Bollywood fans through her work. Savour this piece as a humble tribute to her genius.

Do please also pass by her earlier site too, http://bollyviewer-oldisgold.blogspot.com. You are bound to find many of her brilliant posts there as well.

Thanks are due to Madhulika Liddle, yet another Bollywood buff and an author to boot (https://madhulikaliddle.com), who recently brought this blog site to my attention.

bollyviewer's avatarMasala Punch

It is re-union time again! In masala-land, a re-union does not need a reason, but a rhyme (and music) is always welcome. When Madhu posted her Aankhen songs list, Anu also wanted to post about filmi eyes and I am always happy to join a song-n-dance party. So we planned our re-union party, with songs about eyes – Anu decided to bring Nigaahein songs to the party, Madhu opted for Nazar, and I settled on Naina songs.

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