Kishore Kumar (1929-1987) was a legendary Indian playback singer, actor, songwriter, composer, and filmmaker. Born Abhas Kumar Ganguly in Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh, he began his career as an actor in 1946 and started singing in 1948.
Throughout his career, Kishore Kumar sang in many Indian languages, including Bengali, Hindi, and Marathi. He was known for his versatility, ability to sing in various genres and moods, and engaging personality.
Kishore Kumar’s career as a playback singer soared in the 1950s, making him one of the most popular and influential singers in Indian cinema history. He also had a successful acting career, appearing in over 80 movies. Besides singing and acting, Kishore Kumar was a talented composer and director who created music for many films. He was also known for his wit and humor, making him a popular stage performer.
Kishore Kumar was married four times and had two children: Amit Kumar, a playback singer, and Sumit Kumar. He passed away at 58 due to a heart attack. Kishore Kumar remains a celebrated figure in Indian cinema, and his songs continue to be loved by music fans. Here is a list of the top 10 songs by Kishore Kumar:
1. Zindagi Ke Safar Mein
“Zindagi Ke Safar Mein” is a popular song from the 1974 film “Aap Ki Kasam.” The song, which features legendary actors Rajesh Khanna and Mumtaz, was composed by R.D. Burman and written by Anand Bakshi. It was sung by Kishore Kumar.
The song explores the highs and lows of life, encouraging listeners to stay hopeful and keep moving forward despite challenges. Its uplifting lyrics highlight life’s adventurous journey and how to tackle obstacles. With its catchy beat and positive vibe, “Zindagi Ke Safar Mein” remains a beloved classic.
The song was highly appreciated and is still a favorite at gatherings and celebrations, earning its place as a timeless piece in Indian music.
2. Roop Tera Mastana
“Roop Tera Mastana” is a classic song from the 1969 film “Aradhana.” Sung by Kishore Kumar, the song was composed by Sachin Dev Burman with lyrics by Anand Bakshi. It features the actors Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore.
This romantic ballad celebrates the beauty and charm of a loved one, describing how their allure captivates the singer’s heart. The song is perfect for romantic occasions with its soothing and melodic tune.
“Roop Tera Mastana” was a major hit when it was released and remains one of Kishore Kumar’s most popular and cherished songs. It remains a favorite choice for events and celebrations, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
3. Ek Ladki Bheegi Bhaagi Si
“Ek Ladki Bheegi Bhaagi Si” is a classic track from the 1958 film Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi. Sung by Kishore Kumar, it was composed by Sachin Dev Burman and has lyrics by Majrooh Sultanpuri. The song features Kishore Kumar and Madhubala.
This romantic song describes a girl caught in the rain and how her appearance has captivated the singer. The lively and charming tune perfectly matches the song’s playful and affectionate lyrics.
When it was released, “Ek Ladki Bheegi Bhaagi Si” was a huge hit and remains one of Kishore Kumar’s most beloved songs. Its catchy melody and engaging lyrics contributed to Kishore Kumar’s rise as a leading playback singer in Indian cinema.
4. Yeh Shaam Mastani
“Yeh Shaam Mastani” is a timeless Bollywood song from the 1970 film “Kati Patang,” directed by Shakti Samanta and starring Rajesh Khanna and Asha Parekh. The song features Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar, with music composed by R.D. Burman and lyrics by Anand Bakshi.
In this song, Khanna and Parekh dance together in a picturesque and romantic setting, surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers. The lyrics celebrate the beauty of the evening and the feelings of love and romance it evokes.
Upon its release, “Yeh Shaam Mastani” quickly became a hit and remains a beloved Bollywood love song. Known for its catchy melody and memorable lyrics, various artists have covered it over the years.
The song is a key highlight in “Kati Patang,” symbolizing the deepening romance between the film’s lead characters. It is celebrated as a classic from Bollywood’s golden era, reflecting the charm of love songs and beautiful cinematography of that time.
Overall, “Yeh Shaam Mastani” continues to captivate audiences across generations, celebrating love and the magic of the evening. It remains one of Bollywood’s most cherished and iconic songs.
5. Mere Sapno Ki Rani
“Mere Sapno Ki Rani” is a classic Bollywood song from the 1969 film “Aradhana,” directed by Shakti Samanta. The song features Rajesh Khanna and Sharmila Tagore, with lyrics by Anand Bakshi, music by Sachin Dev Burman, and vocals by Kishore Kumar.
In the song, Khanna and Tagore are seen together in a beautiful, romantic setting, surrounded by vibrant flowers and greenery. The lyrics express the hero’s admiration for his beloved, who he describes as the queen of his dreams.
Upon its release, “Mere Sapno Ki Rani” quickly became a hit and remains a cherished Bollywood love song. The song captures the growing romance between the lead characters, played by Khanna and Tagore, and is a film highlight.
The song is a classic example of Bollywood’s golden era, known for its enchanting love songs and scenic cinematography. “Mere Sapno Ki Rani” is a beloved and iconic piece of Bollywood music, celebrated for its timeless appeal and romantic charm.
6. Gaata Rahe Mera Dil
“Gaata Rahe Mera Dil” is a popular Bollywood song from the 1965 film Guide, which features Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar. Shailendra wrote the lyrics, and Sachin Dev Burman composed the music.
In the film, based on R.K. Narayan’s book, the song is a romantic duet between Raju and Rosie. It plays during a key moment in their love story, highlighting their deep affection.
The song captures the joy and emotion of love with its lively rhythm and heartfelt lyrics. Kishore Kumar’s voice adds a special charm to the track, making it a memorable hit.
“Gaata Rahe Mera Dil” has remained a favorite over the years, celebrated for its upbeat tune and emotional depth. It continues to be enjoyed by audiences across generations, solidifying its place as a timeless classic in Bollywood music.
7. Pag Ghunghroo Bandh
“Pag Ghunghroo Bandh” is a popular song from the 1973 film Namak Haraam. Sung by Kishore Kumar, it was composed by R.D. Burman and has lyrics by Anand Bakshi. The film also features Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan.
This lively dance track highlights the joy and energy of dancing, encouraging listeners to embrace the fun and excitement of moving to the beat. Its upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm make it perfect for dance parties and celebrations.
The song was a major hit when it was released and remains one of Kishore Kumar’s most beloved tracks. Its catchy melody and spirited vibe continue to make it a favorite at events and gatherings. “Pag Ghunghroo Bandh” played a key role in cementing Kishore Kumar’s reputation as a leading playback singer in Indian cinema.
8. Humein Tumse Pyar Kitna
The song “Humein Tumse Pyar Kitna” from the 1981 film Kudrat is a beautiful romantic track performed by Kishore Kumar. It features actors Raaj Kumar and Hema Malini. The music is by R.D. Burman, and the lyrics are by Majrooh Sultanpuri.
This romantic duet expresses deep love and affection, as the singer conveys how profoundly he loves his partner and cannot imagine life without her. The lyrics explore the different aspects of love and its impact on the singer’s life.
The song creates a lasting impression with its soothing melody and simple, elegant instrumentation. The heartfelt lyrics and music resonate with listeners, making it a cherished choice for romantic occasions.
9. Bachna Ae Haseeno
“Bachna Ae Haseeno” is a popular song from the 2008 film of the same name. Originally performed by Kishore Kumar, the song was recreated by Vishal-Shekhar with lyrics by Anvita Dutt Guptan. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor, Minissha Lamba, and Deepika Padukone.
The song was a remake of a classic hit featuring Ranbir Kapoor and a remix that included contributions from the original song’s era, including Kishore Kumar’s voice. The remix also incorporated some English lyrics and featured three vocalists.
In the original version, Rishi Kapoor performs the song as a young and lively character. The track was a major hit and contributed to the film becoming one of the top-grossing movies of that year.
10. Dil Kya Kare
“Dil Kya Kare” is a famous song from the 1975 film Julie. Sung by Kishore Kumar, the music was composed by Rajesh Roshan, and Anand Bakshi wrote the lyrics. The song also features actors Vikram, Lakshmi, and Nadira.
This heartfelt song expresses the pain of unrequited love. The lyrics convey the sorrow and torment of loving someone who doesn’t reciprocate those feelings and the courage to move on. The song’s melancholy and emotional melody captures the agony of rejected love.
Kishore Kumar was a talented and versatile singer known for performing various songs. He could sing in multiple languages and genres, making him a flexible artist. Kishore Kumar was famous for his unique voice and ability to express a song’s emotions. He was a major figure in India’s music industry, and his significant contributions will always be remembered.
Conclusion
Kishore Kumar’s timeless classics continue to enchant listeners across generations. His ability to bring emotions to life through his music has left an indelible mark on the Indian music industry. From romantic ballads to lively dance numbers, Kishore Kumar’s songs capture the essence of human emotions and experiences. These top 10 songs are just a glimpse of his vast repertoire, showcasing his unparalleled talent and enduring legacy. His music remains a source of joy and inspiration, reminding us of the golden era of Bollywood.
FAQs
Q1: Who was Kishore Kumar?
Ans: Kishore Kumar was a legendary Indian playback singer, actor, lyricist, composer, and filmmaker known for his versatility and unique voice.
Q2: What made Kishore Kumar’s singing style unique?
Ans: Kishore Kumar was famous for his ability to convey deep emotions through his voice. His versatility allowed him to perform various genres, from romantic ballads to lively dance tracks.
Q3: What languages did Kishore Kumar sing in?
Ans: Kishore Kumar sang in multiple Indian languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Marathi, and several others, making him a versatile and widely loved singer.
Q4: What are some of Kishore Kumar’s most famous songs?
Ans: Some of his most famous songs include “Mere Sapno Ki Rani,” “Zindagi Ke Safar Mein,” “Roop Tera Mastana,” “Yeh Shaam Mastani,” and “Gaata Rahe Mera Dil.”
Q5: Which composers did Kishore Kumar frequently collaborate with?
Ans: Kishore Kumar worked closely with several legendary music composers such as R.D. Burman, S.D. Burman, and Laxmikant-Pyarelal.
Q6: Did Kishore Kumar win any awards for his singing?
Ans: Kishore Kumar won numerous awards throughout his career, including multiple Filmfare Awards for Best Male Playback Singer.
Q7: Was Kishore Kumar also an actor?
Ans: Yes, Kishore Kumar acted in over 80 films. He was known for his comedic roles and his work as a filmmaker.
Q8: What is the significance of the song “Mere Sapno Ki Rani”?
Ans: “Mere Sapno Ki Rani” is one of Kishore Kumar’s iconic songs from the film Aradhana. It remains a timeless classic that symbolizes romance and youthful exuberance.
Q9: How has Kishore Kumar’s music impacted Bollywood?
Ans: Kishore Kumar’s music has left a lasting legacy in Bollywood. His songs continue to be popular and are frequently played at various events, symbolizing the golden era of Bollywood music.
Q10: Where can one listen to Kishore Kumar’s top songs?
Ans: Kishore Kumar’s top songs are available on various music streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and other music services, and his timeless classics continue to be enjoyed by fans worldwide.
