My playlist would have been very different if I was choosing only on the basis of sound. But, with the theme of colour, I began to indulge myself in a visual as well as an audio feast. When I think of my favourite Bollywood song and dance sequences, I tend to associate a particular colour with each one. Sometimes it’s something as obvious as the costumes themselves, but there are times when the costumes fade into the background, as you’ll see!
This selection begins with some poetic classics, the oldest of which dates back to 1957. In fact, the first two songs come from films that were originally shot in black and white, and have only recently been made available in full Technicolor. Then, you have some of the most breathtaking melodies Bollywood has ever produced. The latter part of my selection is strongly influenced by A R Rehman, my favourite Bollywood songwriter. He won an Oscar for his work on Slumdog Millionaire. So, if you liked ‘Jai Ho’ (without the Pussycat Dolls, thank you) and ‘Ringa Ringa’, the second half of this playlist is definitely for you.
Tracklistings:
- Teri Mehfil Mein Kismat (Film: Mughal e Azam, Released: 1960)
- Ude Jab Jab Zulfein Teri (Naya Daur, 1957)
- Chalte Chalte (Pakeezah, 1972)
- Maar Daala (Devdas, 2002)
- Chaiyya Chaiyya (Dil Se, 1998)
- Kehna Hi Kya (Bombay, 1995)
- Tere Bina (Guru, 2007)
- Bol Na Halke Halke (Jhoom Barabar Jhoom, 2007)
- Ishq Bina (Taal, 1999)
- Pyaar Ki Ek Kahani (Krrish, 2006) (Ladies, his name is Hrithik Roshan!)
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