The charm of some old songs just doesn't wear off even if we forget the films they were made for but when they get an upgrade, they not only end up in our playlists but also get a new identity altogether!
India never really had musicals as a separate genre because songs have always been an integral part of our movies, which continues this tradition of poetry musically. They hold meaning in the films since each song has a story to tell. That is why the music of cinema has been remembered for ages, even if the films have been forgotten because they are essential and a constant for people, whether they are traveling or walking down memory lane. Lately, though, with so much sensory overload and attention deficit, songs have become more of a momentary gratification or part of the trends culture where you love them for a few seconds in your Reels. No wonder musicians, composers, lyricists, and even filmmakers are fighting to hold the audience's attention. Because of this, today, we see many old songs making a comeback as a narrative tool to reign in on our nostalgia and give a unique angle to the story. Like in Madgaon Express, when the three discuss the plan to go to Goa, Dil Chahta Hai anthem plays in the backdrop, which strikes a chord straightaway!
The double entendre song that was quite popular in the 90s found a new home with Crew, where it wasn't just repurposed for effect but contextualized for meaning too. The remade song is the BGM for all three girls during their entire heist which means that the song, which was earlier sexist towards women, is reclaimed here as a source of strength and power for them.
Bade Aache Lagte Hai - Aarya
The classic serendipitous melody is a romantic ballad sung for a beloved, a confession of one's love. But when it is constantly played in Aarya, it becomes a haunting ballad, a constant reminder of Tej and the memories attached to him after his death. It's an effective way of keeping Tej alive rather than always running towards flashbacks!
Ek Ladki ko Dekha to Aisa Laga - Ek Ladki ko Dekha to Aisa Laga
This classic song describes a woman in a thousand ways when she is looked at through the lens of a beloved. But when it is repurposed for Ek Ladki ko Dekha to Aisa Laga, it becomes a confession of a woman in love with another woman.
Khoya Khoya Chand - Shaitan
This classic romantic track completely turned heads when it was remade in a jazz version for Shaitan. The sweet song with meaningful lyrics adds a layer to the violent scene it is played over. Various interpretations have been taken out of this, but it is one of the best examples of an audio/visual oxymoron!
Jaane Jaan - Jaane Jaan
A classic, sexy, cabaret song designed for a dance number that adds to the sex appeal of any film becomes crucial for Jaane Jaan. The song's sexiness makes up for how Maya, a former stripper, is perceived, while the lyrics present her perplexity in trying to keep the police busy at the Karaoke bar. It attains a dual nature!
Mera Dil Bhi Kitna Paagal Hai - Lunchbox
This old song is utilized to pay tribute to the film in Lunchbox. In Saajan (also Irrfan Khan's name), Madhuri Dixit falls in love with the poet, played by Sanjay Dutt, over letters but when Dutt finds Dixit too beautiful for him, he leaves without telling her. This forms a significant point in Lunchbox too hence, Nirmrat, a fan of Bollywood songs, when she listens to this, it makes up for saying the unsaid things!
Kismat Ki Hawa Kabhi Naram - Ludo
This rare classical gem was found again in the audience's playlist when it became the BGM for Pankaj Tripathi inLudo. Tripathi in Ludo is a dice in the game that brings chaos to the lives of everyone living inside theirown colors. Hence, with its apt representation of lyrics, this song becomes another metaphor in the film!
Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani - Khufiya
When played in Khufiya, the youth anthem of the 1970s becomes a source of liberation. Wamiqa Gabbi, alone in the house, dances to the tunes of this song while doing her regular household chores, making the point that a housewife can only find some me-time like this. It also becomes about reigning in that innocent freedom of a young age!
What Jhumka - Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani
'Jhoomka Gira Re' defined flirting in such an innocent way! The remade version of Rocky Aur Rani changes the perspective. While 'What Jhumka' subverts the song, it also borrows from it as Rocky and Rani flirt with each other in the song and call each other out on typical behavior!
Despite copyright issues and the use of old songs being an expensive adventure, the creative and business side of the cinematic industry has struck a chord worth remembering quite a few times. Have you heard of more songs like these? Let us know in the comments below!
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