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Birthday Special: Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s beautiful love songs

It seems like no coincidence that Sanjay Leela Bhansali was born in the month of love. His filmography is filled with epic love stories that have set a precedent in Bollywood. The grandeur of his movies never takes away from the intimacy of the romance, which can be felt through the actors and the songs. Music is a very important tool in Bhansali’s storytelling. Perhaps this is why he has created some of the most romantic moments in his films through songs.

On the occasion of his birthday, BizAsiaLive.com takes a look at five of his most beautiful love songs.

‘Khamoshi: The Musical’ (1996) – Baahon Ke Darmiyan
Bhansali’s debut film ‘Khamoshi’ may not have been successful at the box office, but it marked him as a director with a keen ear for memorable soundtracks. Baahon Ke Darmiyan was an instant hit in the ‘90s. The song was composed by Jatin-Lalit and performed by Alka Yagnik and Hariharan. Picturized on Salman Khan and Manisha Koirala. it still remains a classic 25 years later.

‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam’ (1999) – Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan
Aishwarya Rai and Salman Khan’s chemistry in ‘Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam’ remains unmatched. In Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan especially, the pair is extraordinarily enchanting, as they sneak around the wedding playfully teasing each other, flirting with their eyes. The blooming of their secret love story is depicted in an endearing way no other filmmaker has been able to replicate. However, the unsung hero of the song is the lyrics written by Mehboob, whose lines express the deep meaning behind their mischievous glances.

‘Devdas’ (2002) – Maar Dala
Is there a more tragic love song than Maar Dala? The pain in Kavita Krishnamurthy’s voice as she sings about Chandramukhi’s doomed love for Devdas is further intensified by Madhuri Dixit’s pitch perfect performance. As Chandramukhi, she effortlessly executes Saroj Khan’s complicated choreography while portraying the happiness and sadness of her unreciprocated feelings. Dixit herself considers this one of her finest dance performances in the film.

‘Saawariya’ (2007) – Yoon Shabnami
Yoon Shabnami remains a firm favourite among the audience because of the beautiful visuals, despite the critiques ‘Saawariya’ has received. Here, Bhansali depicts the youthful innocence of new love with fresh-faced Ranbir Kapoor and Sonam Kapoor. Both of their characters are experiencing the joy and anticipation of meeting their beloved as the rest of the city patiently waits for a sighting of the moon. The impeccable choreography and the stunning sets come alive in this song.

‘Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram Leela’ (2013) – Laal Ishq
One of the more underrated songs from Bhansali’s filmography, Laal ishq is an emotional song about eternal love, beyond the restraints of life and death. The track is composed by the director himself and soulfully sung by Arijit Singh, who makes the song a spiritual experience. Although the song is not prominently featured in the film, it highlights an important theme that is present in all Bhansali romances – a devotional love that knows no bounds.

BizAsiaLive.com wishes Sanjay Leela Bhansali a happy birthday.