Sound Track

Rajesh Khanna,the phenomenon would have been impossible without the songs that were inherent to his super stardom,especially those sung by Kishore Kumar.

Rajesh Khanna,the phenomenon would have been impossible without the songs that were inherent to his super stardom,especially those sung by Kishore Kumar. Here,some of the finest numbers from his films.

Chingari koi bhadke: A haunting melody from Amar Prem 1971,this song resonated with the films profound mood. The sublimity of Kumars baritone and RD Burmans charming tunes summed up the emotional struggles in an orthodox society.

Zindagi ek safar: A whiff of fresh air with its ebullient rhythms and peppy tune,the tune composed by Shankar-Jaikishen,fit snugly with the lyrics as Khanna and Hema Malini vroomed away on a motorbike in Andaz 1971

Zindagi kaisi hai paheli: Manna De was never considered Khannas voice as the latter was known to lip-synch Kumar mostly. But for Anand 1971, director Hrishikesh Mujkherjee made Dey sing Zindagi. Composed by Salil Chowdhury and penned by Gulzar,the song remains unforgettable.

Roop tera mastana: The ultimate sensual track from Aradhana 1969,its evocative magic is still alive. As Kumars husky and flirtatious voice reaches a crescendo,the sax notes inserted in the song by SD Burman create an ornate tepestry with some exceptional interludes. Once on screen,Khanna and the sensuous Sharmila Tagore had the nation swooning.

Kahin door jab din dhal jaye: Another gem from Anand 1971 this one harbours an inherent melancholy. Mukherjee brought back forgotten lyricist Yogesh back under the spotlight with the song.

Mere naina saawan bhado: A haunting melody from Mehbooba 1976,the inimitable combination of RD Burman and Kishore Kumar worked again,albeit in a different genre of songs,as a straight-noted track reflected unrequited love aptly.

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Mere sapno ki rani: If we look at the history of film music,there have been a few songs that have broken all records of popularity. This belongs to that category. The lilting melody,with emphatic drum beats playing,is one of Khannas most popular songs.

Zindagi ka safar: The title song from the film Safar 1970 ,the tear-jerker,was one of the finest from Kalyanji Anandjis arsenal. Penned by Indeevar,the song belongs to a time when lyrics captured the plight of the common man grappling with challenges.