Today is late playback singer Kishore Kumar’s 89th birth anniversary. The man’s melodious voice has transcended generations and remains to this day one of the most popular and revered playback singers whom everyone wants to emulate. Kishore’s voice has mesmerized the listeners over decades and even today his songs are well-loved and listened to. Kishore was a multi-talented personality who acted, directed, produced, wrote and even choreographed in films. Although he did quite a few films as an actor, he is remembered today for his singing. Kishore sang for many stars including Dev Anand, Rajesh Khanna, and Amitabh Bachchan and was a favourite with music directors SD Burman and RD Burman.
Whether it was romantic songs, sad songs or songs based on friendship and life Kishore did full justice to all of them and they still resonate with the audience even today. With numerous accolades in his kitty, on his birth anniversary, here’s a look at some of the best songs of the legendary singer which finds a place in every music lover’s playlist.
Mere Sapno Ki Rani – Aradhana
https://youtu.be/vo1MykK4u8U
While talking about Kishore’s melodious hits it is just not possible not to take Rajesh Khanna’s name as it was singing for latter that Kishore achieved his career best. Kishore’s voice was such a perfect fit for Khanna that it was difficult to fathom that the actor is not singing for himself. Khanna who became a superstar with country’s biggest female fan following probably achieved his status thanks to the songs sung by Kishore.
Roop Tera Mastana – Aradhana
https://youtu.be/HenA-OUyo0s
Roop Tera Mastana showcased the young fiery love between Rajesh and Sharmila Tagore in the film. The song was picturized in one take and the actors did full justice to the romantic track and lyrics. Kishore’s ability to suit Rajesh’s voice for any situation and emotion still amaze us.
Khwaab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jw4wLVnFJ-E
Kishore spelled magic with this song and although Dev Anand tries to serenade not one but three actresses in the song, the audience gets to feel the magic through Kishore’s enigmatic voice.
Chod Do Aanchal – Paying Guest
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SuMgYRG3vPU
This duet with Asha Bhosle is probably one of the most playful and endearing songs ever. Picturised on Dev Anand and Nutan the song has achieved a cult status in modern times.
Ek Ladki Bheegi Bhaagi Si – Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxYNdy-0CEs
This is probably one of the best songs sung by Kishore for himself. The song was composed by SD Burman and penned by Majrooh Sultanpuri. Featuring Kishore and Madhubala the song is playful and flirtatious. Even Shah Rukh Khan has said that this is one of his favourite songs.
Aane Wala Pal – Golmaal
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AFRAFHtU-PE
Aane Wala Pal Jaane Wala Hai is the superhit song from Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s iconic film Golmaal. Featuring Amol Palekar and Bindiya Goswami the song is melodious as well as poignant which tells you to live life to the fullest and in the moment.
Neele Neele Ambar Par – Kalaakar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEnLt3pasxE
This iconic number sung by Kishore is a musical hit even today. The film is best remembered for this song and Kishore’s lilting voice is the best choice for the film as the main protagonist is a struggling singer.
Badi Sooni Sooni Hai – Mili
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q659UcAUI1M
Badi Sooni Sooni Hai is a beautiful, melancholic song from the film Mili that stars Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Ashok Kumar and Ila Arun. The song is integral to the story as it showcases the loneliness and grief of Amitabh’s character and Jaya’s character realizing this through the song. This is also the last song that SD Burman recorded and hence has special significance.
Ruk Jana Nahin Tu Kahin Haar Ke – Imtihan
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dO7OKASr8lc
Ruk Jana Nahin Tu Kahin Haar Ke is probably one of the most motivating and inspiring songs ever composed in Hindi cinema. The song is picturized on Vinod Khanna who plays the role of an idealistic professor in the film trying to reform a group of rowdy students. The song is beautifully sung by Kishore and fuels one with motivation to finish the deed and not stop during the journey of life.
Zindagi Ka Safar- Safar
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPhJvvHw1_k
Another beautiful sad song sung by Kishore, Zindagi Ka Safar features Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila. Rajesh’s expression of grief and sadness beautifully complements Kishore’s haunting voice and one can actually feel the hopelessness of the situation.
There are numerous songs that Kishore has sung in his career and almost all of them are amazingly melodious. Hence, it is next to impossible to include them in a list. However, do tell us if there is a song that you love and the reason for your fondness in the comments section below.
