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Reliving Rajesh Khanna-Kishore Kumar 70s Hits

In a famous line, the late Rajesh Khanna -��who sadly��lost his battle��with cancer��on 18th July��-��spoke of playback singer Kishore Kumar as being the soul to his body. In the 1970s, many will remember the numerous hits Kumar sang for Khanna which are just as popular and easy-listening even today, decades later. On this sad day when Bollywood and the world mourns the loss of the industry’s first superstar, BizAsia is going to touch upon some of the hits that ruled the Khanna’s era in the years that Kumar lent his vocals to his songs.

Rajesh Khanna in 'Kati Patang'
Rajesh Khanna in 'Kati Patang'

In 1970, ‘Kati Patang’ came with music that evergreen. Khanna starred with Asha Parekh in a film that touched many hearts. Although all of the soundtrack was immensely popular, our choice is Yeh Shaam Mastani. The song features Khanna trying to woo Parekh who is amongst friends. This is the perfect number to signify the romance that Khanna will always be remembered for. Kumar’s vocals compliment the lyrics and the melody to perfection.

Khanna in 'Safar'
Khanna in 'Safar'

In the same year, ‘Safar’ gave Khanna one of his biggest musical hits. The title��song is pocturised primarily on him and his performance as a grief-stricken man is very tear-jerking. Kumar’s feel to the song gives it the dard it needs to be effective.

Khanna and Tagore in 'Amar Prem'
Khanna and Tagore in 'Amar Prem'

‘Amar Prem’ (1972) was also a film with songs that have been celebrated through the years. The song Chingari Koi Badhke was a highlight for the movie, shot beautifully with an indulgent Khanna and a beautiful in blue Sharmila Tagore. Once again Kumar’s rendition signifies the pain and empathy of the song which, when one listens to it, is evident.

Khanna and Tanuja in 'Mere Jeevan Saathi'
Khanna and Tanuja in 'Mere Jeevan Saathi'

Paired with yet another beauty, Tanuja, Khanna’s performance in ‘Mere Jeevan Saathi’ (1972) was also commendable. O Mere Dil Ke Chain is very soulful and heartfelt and features the couple. Once again portraying his romantic side, Khanna is complimented by Kumar’s vocals.

Khanna in 'Namak Haraam'
Khanna in 'Namak Haraam'

In 1973, ‘Namak Haraam’ brought together Khanna with Bachchan one more time after ‘Anand’ two years previously. In the song Diye Jalte Hai, Bachchan is seen taking a video of a singing Khanna. A tale of friendship once again is brought to life in this song and it’s all made that much better by the familiarity of Kumar’s voice.

Khanna with Mumtaz in 'Aap Ki Kasam'
Khanna with Mumtaz in 'Aap Ki Kasam'

Paired with Mumtaz in ‘Aap Ki Kasam’ (1974), Khanna saw success once again. With yet another musically successful movie, his pairing with this actress went down a storm. Once again, although many songs did well, the one we choose is Jai Jai Shiv Shankar which sees the coming together of Khanna and Kumar yet again.

Although in no way an extensive list, this handful of songs resembles the actor and star Khanna was and also conveys a little of the magic that was added to his films by the talented Kumar. Khanna will most definitely live on in his music, our hearts and the characters he gave us. Rest In Peace to Bollywood’s first superstar…��Gone but will never be forgotten. BizAsia‘s thoughts and prayer are with Khanna’s loved ones at this difficult time.