Category Archives: My Lists

Shah Rukh Khan – 1 actor – 10 voices

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Shah Rukh Khan is celebrating his 60th birthday today (02-November). Famous as SRK or King Khan or Baadshah, he is arguably the most famous star since Amitabh Bachchan. He had first appeared in T.V. serials on Doordarshan and made his film debut in 1992. Interestingly, he played the obsessive lover or anti-hero in his initial films before settling into his evergreen romantic hero image. The image became stronger with a string of hit films. His performances, chemistry with his co-stars, the charm, mannerisms and swagger have all created the matchless SRK phenomenon.

Today’s post is dedicated to SRK through his songs. Over his career of 30 years, multiple playback singers have had the opportunity to sing for him. We can say the songs in their voices have also contributed to SRK’s success as a leading man for so many years. So, here are 10 songs of the actor in 10 different voices. Which are your favourites? do mention in your comments.

1) Song: Dil Aashna Hai
Film: Dil Aashna Hai (1992)
Credits: Majrooh Sultanpuri | Anand-Milind | Suresh Wadkar and Sadhana Sargam

This was supposed to be SRK’s debut movie but it released after Deewana. Dil Aashna didn’t do well but Deewana was a success. I believe this is the only movie (apart from Guddu (1995)) where Suresh Wadkar has sung for SRK. It is a not a bad song and the voice suits the tune and mood (if not SRK!).

2) Song: Koi Na Koi Chhahiye
Film: Deewana (1992)
Credits: Sameer | Nadeem-Shravan | Vinod Rathod and Chorus

This was SRK’s debut film and marked his dashing entry into the film industry. This was his introduction song and he arrived in style. SRK won the Filmfare Best Debut award that year. He played the reckless cum obsessive character and the audience welcomed him with open arms. Vinod Rathod’s voice suits him perfectly here. He also sang Aisi deewanagi in the same film. Interestingly, Rishi Kapoor played the leading hero and had Kumar Sanu singing for him.

3) Song: Ye Kaali Kaali Aankhen
Film: Baazigar (1993)
Credits: Dev Kohli | Anu Malik | Kumar Sanu, Anu Malik and Chorus

SRK continued his good run in 1993 and played the openly negative character of Ajay Sharma in Baazigar. But the audience didn’t mind! This was another hugely successful film with great songs. Baazigar deservedly got SRK the Best Actor Filmfare award. SRK’s energy and dance skills are on display in this song. This was his first film with Kajol. They are one of the best remembered pairings of their time.

Kumar Sanu was the one of the top singers of the 90s and sang for SRK in many movies till 1997. Kumar Sanu won the Filmfare Best Playback Singer award for this song.

4) Song: Tu Mere Saamne
Film: Darr (1993)
Credits: Anand Bakshi | Shiv-Hari | Udit Narayan, Lata Mangeshkar and Chorus

Another movie, another obsessive lover. SRK stalks Juhi Chawla. She is another actress who made a great pair with SRK. SRK’s role had been offered to Rishi Kapoor who declined and recommended SRK’s name to Yash Chopra. The rest is of course history. The dialogue I love you, K-k-k- Kiran has become iconic. SRK was nominated in the Best Villain category in the annual Filmfare awards.

This was the first film where Udit Narayan became SRK’s voice and has possibly sung the most songs for him.

5) Song: Main Koi Aisa Geet Gaoon
Film: Yes Boss (1997)
Credits: Javed Akhtar | Jatin-Lalit | Abhijeet, Alka Yagnik and Chorus

Abhijeet is often cited as SRK’s voice. The charming Badi Mushkil Hai from Anjaam was his first song for SRK. In Yes Boss, SRK again teams up with Juhi Chawla. The soft romantic number is pleasant to listen to and view on the screen. Abhijeet won the Filmfare Award for Best Playback Singer for his effort. One thing to note, SRK is not steady for a moment throughout the song. What an energy the actor has!

6) Song: Satrangi Re
Film: Dil Se (1998)
Credits: Gulzar | A. R. Rahman | Sonu Nigam, Kavita Krishnamurthy and Chorus

This can be termed as a legendary song for its lyrics, singing, music, exotic location and the choreography. The picturization is marvellous and Manisha Koirala never looked so ravishing! Sonu Nigam was slowly making his name at that time and this song proved his prowess and versatility. Sonu went on to sing some prominent songs for SRK in various genres.

7) Song: Main Hoon Don
Film: Don (2006)
Credits: Javed Akhtar | Shankar Ehsaan Loy | Shaan and Chorus

Don was a remake and faced criticism when compared with the original. But the film was a success. Shaan has sung a handful but famous songs for SRK. This is a self description song and Shaan adds his special touch.

8) Song: Ankhon Mein Teri
Film: Om Shanti Om (2007)
Credits: Vishal Dadlani | Vishal-Shekhar | KK

After being more than 15 years in the industry, SRK continued his successful run at the box office. He was paired with new heroines like Deepika and Anushka, who made their debuts in his films. OSO was produced by Gauri Khan under SRK’s home production Red Chillies.

The late KK was in a class of his own. Unfortunately, he sang only a couple of songs for SRK. This is a lovely romantic song in a retro setting and KK takes it to another level. SRK and Deepika elevate the impact with their onscreen chemistry.

9) Song: Haule Haule
Film: Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008)
Credits: Jaideep Sahni | Salim-Sulaiman | Sukhwinder Singh and Chorus

Sukhwinder Singh got his first hit with Chaiyyan Chaiyyan in Dil Se. Who can forget SRK emoting on top of the train? He sang a few more songs including this one from Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi. In the film, a goofy looking SRK is forced to marry Anushka Sharma due to unavoidable circumstances. She maintains a distance from him. But the positive SRK convinces his heart that matters will improve and love will blossom slowly and gradually. Sukhwinder won the Filmfare Best Playback Singer award for this song.

10) Song: Gerua
Film: Dilwale (2015)
Credits: Amitabh Bhattacharya | Pritam | Arijit Singh & Antara Mitra

And the final song in the voice of Arijit Singh, the most famous voice of the current generation. SRK appears with Kajol in this not so memorable Rohit Shetty film. But the song is a delight and succeeds in bringing out the same vibes that only SRK can. Come, paint me in the colour of love.

“Boys v/s Girls” – 90s Songs

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Hero v/s heroine or boy v/s girl is one of the common situations in Hindi movies. This normally happens when the lead pair meet for the first time and their initial interaction is not very promising. And we have them expressing their emotions through a song.

Today’s post covers the boy v/s girl theme through 10 songs, all from the 1990s and beyond. It is interesting that most of these songs can be termed as “college songs.” It seems that the whole college is ready to participate in the song by supporting the hero and heroine respectively. There are other situations including a marriage song which features this theme. I hope you enjoy and which songs do you remember?

1) Song: Aaj No Chhodunga Tujhe
Film: Dil (1990)
Credits: Sameer | Anand-Milind | Udit Narayan, Anuradha Paudwal and Chorus

Raja (Aamir Khan) and Madhu (Madhuri Dixit) are college mates and can’t stand each other. They keep looking for an opportunity to insult each other without caring for the consequences. They go to great lengths to achieve this. In this song they voice out those bitter feelings. This was one of the super hit songs from the movie. Interestingly, it was not in the original release and was shot and added after the film became a hit.

2) Song: Khudko Kya Samajhti Hai
Film: Khiladi (1992)
Credits: Sameer | Jatin-Lalit | Abhijeet, Udit Narayan, Sapna Mukherjee, Kavita Krishnamurthy and Chorus

This is a typical college song involving the boys against the girls. Its Rose Day. Ayesha Jhulka insults Akshay Kumar who attempts to gift her a red rose as a mark of their love. He teams up with the boys (including Deepak Tijori) and she with the girls (including Sabeeha). He describes the heroine’s rudeness and other qualities in detail, and she responds in kind. By the end of the song, they reconcile and fall in love.

3) Song: Shehar Ki Pariyon Ke Peeche
Film: Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992)
Credits: Majrooh Sultanpuri | Jatin-Lalit | Udit Narayan, Sadhana Sargam and Chorus

JJWS was based on college life, its highs and lows and the competition associated with it. This is a situational song. It is Diwali night and the young girls and boys have gathered in the neighbourhood. The girls are of the opinion that the boys are easily influenced by westernized girls from big cities and not the seedhi saadhi types from small towns. Ayesha Jhulka starts the song with this complaint and Aamir Khan responds in his style on behalf of the boys. A lesser known song but melodious and effective.

4) Song: Mat Kar Itna Guroor
Film: Aadmi Khilona Hai (1993)
Credits: Sameer | Nadeem-Shravan | Pankaj Udhas and Alka Yagnik

This is a college function song based on the theme “Old Meets New”. Its Govinda (a senior) against Meenakshi Sheshadri (a new student). He has fallen in love at first sight but she doesn’t care and insults him outright. The song is an opportunity for them to convey their opinions about each other.

5) Song: Shava Ye Nakhra Ladki Ka
Film: Suhaag (1994)
Credits: Sameer | Anand-Milind | Kumar Sanu, Udit Narayan, Alka Yagnik and Chorus

Another typical song where all the college students seem to be a part of the song. (Wonder when they study!). Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgan are college mates. The girls (Karisma Kapoor and Nagma) are angry at them and fed up with the boys’ attitude. The boys tease them through the song and the girls return their sentiment.

6) Song: Joote Do Paise Lo
Film: Hum Aapke Hain Kaun (1994)
Credits: Dev Kohli | Raam Laxman | S. P. Balasubrahmanyam, Lata Mangeshkar and Chorus

HAHK was a film choc-a-bloc with songs, many related to the wedding and other traditional customs. This particular song depicts the “joota chhupai or chori” i.e. “hiding the groom’s shoes” custom. A unique song but fitting today’s theme!

Its marriage time and the girls (led by Madhuri Dixit) have hidden the groom’s shoes. The boys (led by Salman Khan) have to locate them else end up paying a ransom. Its a fun song as each party tries to outwit each other.

7) Song: Neela Dupatta Peela Suit
Film: Hameshaa (1997)
Credits: Dev Kohli | Anu Malik | Abhijeet, Sadhana Sargam and Chorus

Raja (Saif Ali Khan) is dreaming about his Rani and he coincidentally meets a new student named Rani (Kajol). Rani has entered the college as a new student seeking admission. A scene later, we have this song where he is flirting with her and she shows him his rightful place.

8) Song: Ye Kaisa Ladka Hai
Film: Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)
Credits: Sameer | Jatin-Lalit | Udit Narayan, Alka Yagnik and Chorus

This is not a typical boy v/s girl song but a song between 2 friends – Rahul (Shah Rukh Khan) and Anjali (Kajol). They are the best of friends but are bound to keep bickering over small things almost daily. The news spread quickly whenever they fight (again?!). They mock each other through the song. However by the end of the day, they are back to being friends as never before.

9) Song: Boys Are Best
Film: Chura Liyaa Hai Tumne (2003)
Credits: Jay Verma | Himesh Reshammiya | Shaan and Sunidhi Chauhan

This was a forgettable film starring Zayed Khan and Esha Deol. The song is placed immediately after the hero and heroine meet in Goa. The hero proclaims that boys are best whereas the heroine is quick to counter him.

10) Song: Ladki Kyon Naa Jaane Kyon
Film: Hum Tum (2004)
Credits: Prasoon Joshi | Jatin-Lalit | Shaan and Alka Yagnik

Another song where the hero (Saif Ali Khan) and heroine (Rani Mukerji) meet for the first time. They are strangers who need to spend a few hours together in Amsterdam. However the hero is soon irritated by her typical “girly” thoughts and antics. He starts singing the song wondering why girls cannot be like boys. She is ready to confront him and highlight the irritating behaviour displayed by boys.

Lata Mangeshkar – Birthday Songs

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Today is 28th September, and we are remembering Lata Mangeshkar on her birthday. But remembering would be a wrong word as I am sure there is hardly a day when we don’t hear her songs. It might be from the classic era – 50s and 60s or the 90s where she sang selectively but continued to deliver huge hits. It might be a film song or otherwise. As often repeated, there will be no one like Lataji again. Such is her influence.

Thinking about a theme is so difficult when it comes to such a great artist. I had written about 1 voice and 10 heroines earlier remembering the singer and some of the heroines she sang for. Today’s post is about birthday songs sang by Lataji. Birthdays are common situations in our movies and a perfect reason to place a song. While meant to be a cheerful occasion, we see the occasional twist, adding to the entertainment.

1) Song: Da Dir Daara…Meri Laadli
Film: Andaz (1949)
Credits: Majrooh Sultanpuri | Naushad | Lata Mangeshkar and Chorus

Starting with one of the very early songs of Lataji. This was her first collaboration with Naushad, with whom she had a long association till the 1990s. In the song, Raj Kapoor and Nargis are celebrating their daughter’s first birthday. Everything is fine till Dilip Kumar’s arrival which adds drama to the scene. Nargis pauses when she sees him but gains control and continues the song. Lataji’s voice sounded young but it had the range and throw that were going to become legendary soon.

2) Song: Ek Bewafa Se Pyaar Kiya
Film: Awara (1951)
Credits: Hasrat Jaipuri | Shankar Jaikishan | Lata Mangeshkar

Similar to Naushad, Lataji had a long association with Shankar Jaikishan, who gave her some of the best songs of her career. Not to forget Raj Kapoor’s legendary banner R.K. Films under which this film was made. In this scene, it is Nargis’s birthday and meant to be a happy occasion. But there is a twist before the song which reveals the harsh reality of her lover (Raj Kapoor). Her friend sings the song but it is a reflection of her troubled state of mind. What to say about Lataji’s singing – effortless and amazing breath control.

3) Song: Pawan Diwani
Film: Dr Vidya (1962)
Credits: Majrooh Sultanpuri | S. D. Burman | Lata Mangeshkar

It is Vyjayanti Mala’s onscreen birthday party. And her dance performance is the return gift for the assembled guests! Her performance is impeccable but Lataji’s divine singing displays her classical singing prowess. Definitely one of those songs which are a treat to the eyes and the ears in equal measure.

4) Song: Tumhe Aur Kya Doon Main
Film: Ayee Milan Ki Bela (1964)
Credits: Hasrat Jaipuri | Shankar Jaikishan | Lata Mangeshkar

Shankar Jaikishan once again, with their favourite Raag Bhairavi. And Lataji’s voice blending with Saira Banu’s screen presence takes it to another level. A melodious song celebrating the birthday of the 2 heroes – Rajendra Kumar and Dharmendra. She is wishing both of them but her heart is set on one of them!

5) Song: Kya Rang-e-Mehfil
Film: Dil Diya Dard Liya (1966)
Credits: Shakeel Badayuni | Naushad | Lata Mangeshkar and Chorus

A messy and forgettable film with great music. A different composition from Naushad and presented so brilliantly by Lataji. It is Shyama’s birthday celebration. Waheeda Rehman is requested or rather forced to showcase her singing skills in the party. She obliges by singing this enchanting number.

6) Song: Dulhan Ban Ke Aayi Umango Ki Shaam
Film: Saaz Aur Awaaz (1966)
Credits: Khumar Barabankvi | Naushad | Lata Mangeshkar

Another Naushad composition from another forgettable film from the 60s. But the songs were good like this number based on Raag Pilu. This time it is Saira Banu’s birthday. She arrives late and performs this song, thanking the guests and well wishers who have come to greet her. It has the Naushad stamp and Lataji delivers the intricate number convincingly.

7) Song: Aaj Hai 2 October Ka Din
Film: Parivaar (1967)
Credits: Gulshan Bawra | Kalyanji Anandji | Lata Mangeshkar and Chorus

Jeetendra and Nanda are celebrating their son’s birthday. What is special is it is 2nd of October which is the birthday of 2 great leaders – Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri. The lyrics describe both the personalities and wish the child to try and follow their paths.

8) Song: Badhai Ho Badhai
Film: Mere Munna (1967)
Credits: Qamar Jalalabadi | Kalyanji Anandji | Lata Mangeshkar

And finally a song sung by a child! Junior Mehmood sings the song with playback by Lataji. Seems it is Nutan and Rehman’s son’s birthday and Jr. Mehmood is wishing him by singing this delightful song. One of Lataji’s ability was to sound like the character she is singing for and does so here as well. Singing for a child and that too a boy with desirable results!

9) Song: Janam Din Aaya
Film: Baharon Ki Manzil (1968)
Credits: Majrooh Sultanpuri | Lamikant Pyarelal | Lata Mangeshkar and Chorus

This was a film with a different story line. Meena Kumari plays the role of a woman who has lost her memory for many years. This song celebrates the birthday of her daughter (from a small child to a grown up girl (played by Farida Jalal)). Lataji sang the most number of songs for the Laxmikant Pyarelal duo over more than 3 decades of their luminous career.

10) Song: Choron Ko Saare Nazar Aate Hai Chor
Film: Naya Zamana (1971)
Credits: Anand Bakshi | S. D. Burman | Lata Mangeshkar

And the final song in today’s list – not a happy song by any means. This is a situational song as per the demand of the movie. It is Hema Malini’s niece’s birthday. She has invited her “poor” friend Aruna Irani for the party. Aruna gets wrongly accused of stealing by Hema’s sister in law (Indrani Mukherjee) because she is not wealthy like the other guests. She is hurt by this behaviour but she doesn’t leave as she has promised to sing a song on this joyous occasion. She stays and entertains the affluent guests by singing this song sarcasm filled composition. Lataji brings out the emotions effectively – part hurt and part angry.