Kishore Kumar, the legendary singer whose voice has captivated millions, continues to mesmerize fans worldwide, even long after his passing. His contribution to the music industry is unparalleled, as he left an indelible mark on the hearts of music enthusiasts with his evergreen songs. On the occasion of his death anniversary, we take a moment to honor his memory by celebrating some of his most iconic songs that have found a new lease on life through remakes in modern films. From “Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas” to “Bachna Ae Haseeno,” here are the top 5 Kishore Kumar songs that have been beautifully reimagined for a new generation of audiences.
The journey begins with “Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas,” a heartfelt melody from the 1973 cult classic “Blackmail,” starring Dharmendra, Rakhee, and Shatrughan Sinha. The song’s enchanting music, composed by the illustrious duo Kalyanji-Anandji, with lyrics by Rajendra Krishan, is remembered as one of the finest in Kishore Kumar’s illustrious career. Such was its impact that the song was revisited not once, but twice in modern times. In 2016, Abhijit Vaghani remade it for the film “Wajah Tum Ho,” infusing it with contemporary vibes. The song found its way back to the big screen in 2019, this time serving as a central piece in a film of the same name, starring Dharmendra’s grandson, Karan Deol, alongside Sahher Bambba.
Another gem from Kishore Kumar’s treasure trove is “Dil Me Chhupa Lunga,” which resonates with audiences even decades after its initial release. Originally featured in the 1977 film “Darling Darling,” directed by Gogi Anand and starring the evergreen Dev Anand alongside Zeenat Aman, the song’s musical foundation was laid by R. D. Burman and lyrically crafted by Anand Bakshi. In 2016, its timeless essence was recaptured in the romantic film “Wajah Tum Ho,” sung by the talented Armaan Malik and offering a fresh take while maintaining its soulful core.
Equally captivating was the romantic tune “Dil Kya Kare” from the 1975 blockbuster “Julie,” directed by K.
. S. Sethumadhavan. The song was not just a part of the film; it became a cultural phenomenon, loved by audiences and securing a place in the pantheon of timeless classics. Recognizing its enduring appeal, the creators of the film “Kaabil,” starring Hrithik Roshan and Yami Gautam, chose to reimagine the song to align with modern tastes while retaining its original charm, thus introducing it to a fresh audience.
No retrospective on Kishore Kumar would be complete without mentioning “Khaike Paan Banaras Wala” from the 1978 hit film “Don,” featuring Amitabh Bachchan and Zeenat Aman. This upbeat, energetic track became synonymous with its era, embedding itself into the cultural fabric. The song’s recreated version emerged in the 2006 reinterpretation of “Don,” starring Shah Rukh Khan and Priyanka Chopra. The DJ Suketu remix reinvigorated the classic, blending nostalgia with contemporary beats, and ensuring its place on dance floors and playlists alike.
Lastly, the song “Bachna Ae Haseeno” originally marked its territory as a massive chartbuster in the film “Hum Kisise Kum Naheen,” where Rishi Kapoor and Zeenat Aman brought it to life on screen. Kishore Kumar’s powerful voice behind this track continues to echo through time. In 2008, the song received a modern facelift as the title track for the film “Bachna Ae Haseeno,” starring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone, ensuring that Kishore Kumar’s legacy endures in the hearts and ears of new generations.
Kishore Kumar’s musical genius has transcended time, genre, and generations. Each remake of his iconic songs pays homage to his unmatched talent, reminding us of the timelessness of his music. As we remember him on his death anniversary, these remakes serve not only as a celebration of his enduring influence but also as a testament to the everlasting appeal of his artistry.
