Welcome to the Classics section. Every week, we revisit two Hindi songs… one from the Pre-90s era and one from the Post-90s.
Today, we revisit the magic of O Leke Pehla Pehla Pyar and the heartbreak of Shikayat Hai to bridge the gap between the breezy, open streets of 50s Bombay and the heavy, melancholic heartbreak of the early 2000s. These two tracks couldn’t be more different in their mood… one celebrates the joy of a new encounter, while the other mourns a love that remains unfulfilled.
O Leke Pehla Pehla Pyar – C.I.D (1956)
Singer: Shamshad Begum, Asha Bhosle, Mohammed Rafi
Music Director: O.P. Nayyar
Lyricist: Majrooh Sultanpuri
The Charm of Street Serenades
The concept of street musicians singing with lead actors walking alongside has its own appeal, and it’s something that has been missing these days in our films. It brings a certain rawness and charm that studio-bound songs often lack.
Out of all the legendary singers involved here, Shamshad Begum’s voice makes the song stand out for me in this lovely O.P. Nayyar composition. And visually? You can’t ignore how good Dev Anand looks with his signature smile. Plus, keep an eye out for the backdrop… a very silent, open-looking Marine Drive that feels like a different world compared to today.
khillein honthon pe bahaar, nikla gusse se bhi pyaar..
jaadunagri se aaya hai koi jaadugar…
🎧 Want better audio? Listen to the Lyrical Version here
Shikayat Hai – Jism (2003)
Singer: Roop Kumar Rathod
Music Director: M.M. Keeravani
Lyricist: Sayeed Quadri, Nilesh Mishra
The Melody of Unspoken Pain
I don’t know about the South, but in the Hindi Film Industry, M.M. Keeravani is a very under-rated composer. He consistently delivers soul-stirring melodies that deserve more credit.
This track is tailor-made for anyone who has gone through one-sided love, heartbreak, or is living a life they don’t quite like. The lyrics hit home perfectly. M.M. Keeravani’s composition combined with Roop Kumar Rathod’s vocals (easily one of his best tracks) makes for a great listen. Observation: Listen closely post the 3:15 mark… there is a lovely use of the ‘Awarapan Banjaarapan’ tune hidden in there. The video is a bit underwhelming though, so I prefer just closing my eyes and listening to this one.
kishton kishton mein mar raha hoon, roz lagta hai..
isliye mujhko apni zindagi se nafrat hai…
🎧 Want better audio? Listen to the Lyrical Version here
Whether you prefer the breezy vibe of O Leke Pehla Pehla Pyar or the sadness of Jism, these tracks are timeless.
Missed the previous edition? Check out my review of Dum Maro Dum and Chupke Se here.
