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On the death anniversary of the celebrated composer Kalyanji, a retrospective of some of the most memorable hits from the iconic duo Kalyanji-Anandji is presented. Their timeless music continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
Here are ten of their most iconic songs:
1. **Mere Desh Ki Dharti (Upkar):** The collaboration between Manoj Kumar and Kalyanji-Anandji (K-A) proved to be incredibly successful. This patriotic song, penned by Gulshan Bawra and sung by Mahendra Kapoor, became a defining piece. Kalyanji himself noted the song’s significance, stating it was a personal favorite, deeply connected to the soil of India.
2. **Laila Oh Laila (Qurbani):** Beyond the renowned singers like Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammed Rafi, Kishore Kumar, and Asha Bhosle, K-A also achieved success with lesser-known vocalists. This song, performed by Kanchan, the wife of Kalyanji-Anandji’s son Babla, and featuring Zeenat Aman, is a prime example.
3. **Dum Dum Diga Diga (Chhalia):** Many of K-A’s biggest hits featured Mukesh. While the melancholic ‘Waqt Karta Jo Wafaa’ from Dil Ne Pukara is appreciated, this upbeat track perfectly captures Mukesh’s association with K-A, exuding a joyful energy.
4. **Yeh Mera Dil Pyar Ka Deewana (Don):** Although ‘Khai Ke Paan Banaras Wala’ is the more famous song in ‘Don,’ this cabaret number, picturized on Helen and sung by Asha Bhosle, remains a captivating tune.
5. **Salaam-e-Ishq (Muqaddar Ka Sikandar):** This soundtrack produced several hits. The standout is this mujra, which Lata Mangeshkar did not particularly favor. Nevertheless, its popularity is undeniable.
6. **Zindagi Ka Safar (Safar):** This film, starring Rajesh Khanna, included Kishore Kumar gems, including ‘Jeevan Se Bhari Teri Aankhen’ and this reflective song penned by Indeevar. Kalyanji acknowledged the era when Khanna’s on-screen performances guaranteed hit songs.
7. **Wada Karle Sajna (Haath Ki Safai):** This beautifully orchestrated piano-driven love song, filmed on Simi Garewal and Vinod Khanna, is considered the best song Khanna ever participated in.
8. **Pal Pal Dil Ke Paas (Blackmail):** Arguably the most popular K-A composition, this song is a favorite among aspiring Romeos.
9. **Ja Re Ja Oh Harjayee (Kalicharan):** Though Lata Mangeshkar and K-A provided numerous hits, this one stands out. The song’s beats are memorable. Reena Roy, who danced to the tune, once confessed she thought it was sung by Asha Bhosle for a long time.
10. **Hai Preet Jahan Ki Reet (Purab Aur Paschim):** Concluding with another patriotic song, this collaboration of Manoj Kumar, Mahendra Kapoor, and K-A reminds listeners of the Indian identity.
