Category Archives: My Lists

“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.

Shammi Kapoor – “Transport Mode” Songs

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Shammi Kapoor – the name is enough! He is the star, the performer who created his own style and became a bankable hero in the late 50s and 60s. Of course, this was not easy. After initial failures, he tasted success with Tumsa Nahi Dekha (1957) and followed up with more.

This was the era of Dilip Kumar, Dev Anand and (his own brother) Raj Kapoor. While it may have been difficult to match the fame of the trio, he managed to carve a special place for himself. His fans would vouch for that. His screen presence was entertainment guaranteed. Typical of his on screen persona, he would stalk the heroine, trouble her, revel in comedy and dance. His natural sense of rhythm was adequately reflected in the song picturization. And with Mohammed Rafi providing playback, the songs were bound to be a winner.

Shammi Kapoor passed away on 14th August 2011 and today’s post is dedicated to his memory. One noticeable thing about him was that it was difficult to see him sitting down and staying calm. He would always be on the move. In this context, today’s theme covers 10 songs where Shammi Kapoor is in transport mode. Land, water, air – he avails it all. Enjoy the post and which similar songs do you remember?

1) Song: Tumsa Nahi Dekha
Film: Tumsa Nahi Dekha (1957)
Credits: Majrooh Sultanpuri | O. P. Nayyar | Mohammed Rafi

Tumsa Nahi Dekha was the turning point in Shammi Kapoor’s career. After a string of flops, he tasted success that led to emergence of the “Shammi Kapoor” phenomenon. He developed his own style. In this song, he “hijacks”a tonga before the heroine (Ameeta) can engage it. As both are travelling to the same destination, she reluctantly boards the tonga. After that, the hero is in his full element. He teases and flirts with her. She is of course, not impressed. He would go on to do many such songs throughout this career. While the song is picturised in a tonga, there are hardly any outdoor shots. Seems it was all shot in a studio!

2) Song: Dekho Ji Ek Bala Jogi Matwala
Film: Chinatown (1962)
Credits: Majrooh Sultanpuri | Ravi | Mohammed Rafi and Meenu Purushottam

A train journey, a disguised Shammi Kapoor. And you know the rest. The heroine Shakila’s father is taking her back to Calcutta. He doesn’t approve of his daughter meeting the “good for nothing” hero. But Shammi Kapoor is not one to back off easily. He disguises himself as a sadhu and boards the train. What follows is a devotional song where he makes attempts to impress her father. She recognizes him and joins him in the singing. Shammi Kapoor played a double role in this film convincingly.

3) Song: Yahaan Ke Hum Hain Rajkumar
Film: Rajkumar (1964)
Credits: Shailendra | Shankar Jaikishan | Mohammed Rafi

Shammi Kapoor plays the prince who is returning home after spending time abroad. This is his “welcome” home song involving a long procession. He is in truly transport mode here! The song starts in a car, then he rides an elephant, a horse and finally starts walking. He is making people aware that the prince is back. And he enjoys drawing attention to himself.

4) Song: Ye Chand Sa Roshan Chehra
Film: Kashmir Ki Kali (1964)
Credits: S.H. Bihari | O.P. Nayyar | Mohammed Rafi

It’s time to get in a water mode. Shammi Kapoor woos Sharmila Tagore in a shikara, a wooden boat used in Kashmir. The water and shaking of the boat has no effect on our hero. He is in full form – bending, dancing, jumping all over, and finally, falling in to the water!

5) Song: Subhan Allah Haseen Chehra
Film: Kashmir Ki Kali (1964)
Credits: S.H. Bihari | O.P. Nayyar | Mohammed Rafi

Another song from the same movie. Sharmila Tagore is travelling on a truck with her friends and the villain (Pran, who else!). Shammi Kapoor joins disguised as a pathan’s wife and performs this delightful song. The singing, the catchy rhythm and performance make it memorable.

6) Song: Jaane Mera Dil Kise
Film: Latt Saheb (1967)
Credits: Hasrat Jaipuri | Shankar Jaikishan | Mohammed Rafi

This is one of those “searching for love” songs. This is also an introduction of the hero song. The movie was forgettable but the songs were good. Shammi Kapoor enters the frame riding a horse. He sings, wondering when and where he will meet his beloved.

7) Song: Asmaan Se Aaya Farishta
Film: An Evening In Paris (1967)
Credits: Hasrat Jaipuri | Shankar Jaikishan | Mohammed Rafi, Sharmila Tagore(?) and Chorus

This is truly one of the unique songs in Hindi cinema and probably first of its kind. Shammi Kapoor dangles from a helicopter as he sings to Sharmila Tagore (who is water skiing). Later he hops on a boat. The song stands out for its picturization because shooting in foreign locations was not so common then. Water skiing, as a sport was also probably new for the audience.

8) Song: Hoga Tumse Kal Bhi Saamna
Film: An Evening In Paris (1967)
Credits: Shailendra | Shankar Jaikishan | Mohammed Rafi

Back on land on a two wheeler in a picnic situation. Shammi Kapoor disguises himself as an Arab called Hukku Pasha and follows Sharmila Tagore on a scooter (a Vespa?). The song may not be well known as other gems from the movie. But it does show Shammi Kapoor utilizing the scooter to perform his antics and get closer to the heroine. And she doesn’t seem to mind the attention.

9) Song: Chakke Mein Chakka
Film: Brahmachari (1968)
Credits: Shailendra | Shankar Jaikishan | Mohammed Rafi and Chorus

Shammi Kapoor with a bunch of kids in Brahmachari. In the song it’s the kids’ day out. They all get in the vintage car and visit an amusement park which is filled with thrilling rides. Later they visit a garden and take a ride in the toy train. Shammi Kapoor was nominated and won the Filmfare award for Best Actor Filmfare award for this performance.

10) Song: Re Mamma Re Mamma
Film: Andaz (1971)
Credits: Hasrat Jaipuri | Shankar Jaikishan | Mohammed Rafi

And finally a song from Andaz, probably his last film as a leading man. Shammi Kapoor plays a widowed father. His daughter (played by Baby Gauree) is miffed at him. He follows her in a jeep and sings this song to calm her down and take her home.