Bollywood just needs an excuse to break into a song and dance sequence. And the umpteen Indian festivals celebrated across the country gives Bollywood that scope. But if there’s one festival that Hindi cinema particularly loves — apart from endless shaadis — it is Holi.
There was a time in the 70s that a typical formula film would have to have a Holi song — and thanks to that mandate, we have some outstanding songs that both capture the mood of this bright and bustling festival, as well as give us major (romance) goals.
For, essentially, that’s what Holi is — a day that celebrates love, in both its naughtiness and headiness.
The day is intoxicating and liberating, and it spells freedom — the freedom to love, exactly the way you want.
Here’s a list of our five most favourite Holi songs that redefine romance:
Rang Barse — Silsila (1981)
Now, you cannot talk about Holi and not mention this song.
Rang Barse is Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha’s chemistry at its peak. Rang Barse is love and everything beyond that. Rang Barse is being torn between right, wrong, gosh-that-feels-so-right! Rang Barse is what Holi feels like. And you feel it too, right?
Balam Pichkari — Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)
No other song in recent times has made quite a splash (geddit?) as this one did.
Of course, Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone’s chemistry worked wonders, but even beyond that, the song is a standout one. Balam Pichkari embodies naughty romance, a youthful carefreeness that Holi stands for.
Lahu Muh Lag Gaya — Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela (2013)
Speaking of chemistry and Deepika, can any song, any actor, any pair beat Lahu Mu Lag Gaya?
Deepika and Ranveer Singh bring restrained carnal passion alive on screen — and if it doesn’t make you heave a breath or swallow a certain desire, have you really watched this song?
Ang Se Ang Lagana — Darr (1993)
Alright, this song may be notorious for promoting stalking and molestation, in fact, the whole film is, but can we, for a moment, look away from the creepy Rahul (Shah Rukh Khan) and towards Kiran (Juhi Chawla) and Sunil (Sunny Deol)?
These two are in love and they have the acceptance of those who matter the most to them — their family. Forbidden love may or may not taste better, but it definitely lacks the comfort that these two exude in this song.
Aaj Na Chhodenge — Kati Patang (1970)
As much fun and frolic this festival can stand for, it can also be brutal and heartbreaking. This particular song from Kati Patang, therefore, is important — for it breaks shackles! There is, of course, a very clear romantic angle, but what comes across as even more powerful is the love for life.
Through Kamal’s (Rajesh Khanna) coaxing, Madhavi (Asha Parekh), a widow, rediscovers her love for life. And for all its stunningly gorgeous colours! #KhabarLive