Bollywood music has long been a cultural powerhouse, with its infectious melodies and unforgettable dance numbers it has captivated audiences far beyond India’s borders. Over the decades, certain songs have transcended time, becoming more than just hits, they’ve become anthems that define entire generations.
These tracks are woven into the fabric of everyday life, often played at weddings, parties, and festivals, creating the backdrop for cherished memories. From love ballads to energetic dance tunes, these iconic Bollywood songs have left an indelible mark on global music lovers. Here’s a look at 10 of the most memorable and best Bollywood songs that have not only shaped the industry but also continue to inspire and connect listeners worldwide.
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Afghan Jalebi (Asrar – Syed Asrar Shah)
From the 2015 film Phantom, “Afghan Jalebi” quickly became a fan favorite with its Middle Eastern-inspired beats and unique vocals. Sung by Syed Asrar Shah thi piece brings a fresh flavor to Bollywood music with its intoxicating rhythm and catchy chorus.
This song’s distinct blend of traditional instruments with modern beats was symbolic of Bollywood’s ability to blend old and new, appealing to both older and younger generations alike.
Badtameez Dil (Benny Dayal)
Few songs from the 2010s can boast the same cultural influence as “Badtameez Dil” from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013). With Benny Dayal’s energetic voice and a funky fusion of pop and Bollywood sounds, this song encapsulates youthful exuberance.
Its danceable beats, combined with infectious lyrics and Ranbir Kapoor’s electrifying screen presence, made it an instant hit and a song that defined a generation of Bollywood enthusiasts.
Balam Pichkari (Vishal Dadlani, Shalmali Kholgade)
Another hit from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013), “Balam Pichkari” is synonymous with Holi, the festival of colors. The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat tempo, performed by Vishal Dadlani and Shalmali Kholgade, perfectly capture the joy and fun of the traditional festival. The chemistry between the film’s leads, along with the colorful choreography, helped “Balam Pichkari” become one of the most popular Holi songs of recent times.
Bom Diggy Diggy (Zack Knight, Jasmin Walia)
This English-Punjabi hybrid track from the movie Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety (2018) was an instant success, especially with younger and international audiences. “Bom Diggy Diggy” brought an international vibe to Bollywood, combining modern pop elements with desi beats.
Zack Knight and Jasmin Walia’s vocals added a fresh, peppy touch to the song, making it a chartbuster in clubs and parties and showcases Bollywood’s growing global influence.
Cham Cham (Meet Bros, Monali Thakur)
“Cham Cham,” from the 2016 film Baaghi, is a beautiful blend of romance and tradition. Sung by Monali Thakur and composed by Meet Bros, the song’s mesmerizing melody and lyrical beauty have made it a timeless love anthem. The rain-soaked visuals in the film further enhanced its appeal, making it a visual and auditory treat that continues to evoke feelings of joy and love often being incorporated into wedding celebrations.
Dhinka Chika (Mika Singh, Amrita Kak)
“Dhinka Chika,” from the movie Ready (2011), was a massive hit thanks to its infectious beats and Salman Khan’s signature dance moves. Sung by Mika Singh and Amrita Kak, this song is an energetic celebration track that is still played at events across India. Its repetitive, catchy hook and lively choreography have made “Dhinka Chika” a household favorite.
Gallan Goodiyaan (Farhan Akhtar, Shankar Mahadevan, and others)
Released in 2015 as part of Dil Dhadakne Do, “Gallan Goodiyaan” is the ultimate feel-good family track. Sung by a group of talented artists including Farhan Akhtar and Shankar Mahadevan, this song is about togetherness, love, and family celebrations. Its inclusive and joyful tone speaks to multiple generations, making it a modern classic for Bollywood lovers.
Ghoomar (Shreya Ghoshal)
“Ghoomar,” from Padmaavat (2018), is a stunning representation of traditional Rajasthani culture. Sung by Shreya Ghoshal, this graceful and visually captivating song showcases the beauty of the Ghoomar dance. The traditional rhythms, combined with the powerful visuals in the movie, made “Ghoomar” an instant hit. Its widespread popularity helped the track cross over from film to real-life celebrations like weddings and festivals.
Ik Vaari Aa – (Arijit Singh)
“Ik Vaari Aa,” sung by Arijit Singh, captures the essence of longing and romance. Featured in the film Raabta, the song beautifully expresses a deep yearning for love and connection. With its melodious tune and heartfelt lyrics, it evokes emotions that resonate with anyone who has experienced the intensity of love. The combination of the soothing piano arrangement and Singh’s soulful voice makes it a perfect piece for piano players looking to convey profound feelings through their music. Whether played softly or with passion, “Ik Vaari Aa” is a timeless addition to any pianist’s repertoire.
Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai (Roop Kumar Rathod)
From the movie Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (2008), “Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai” is a deeply emotional love ballad that has captured the hearts of romantics since its release. Sung by Roop Kumar Rathod, the song’s lyrics speak of divine love and devotion. Its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics continue to make “Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai” a cross-generational anthem for expressing love and commitment.
Kal Ho Naa Ho (Sonu Nigam)
The title track of the 2003 movie Kal Ho Naa Ho, sung by Sonu Nigam, is one of Bollywood’s most iconic songs. Its heartfelt lyrics and poignant message about living in the moment resonate with audiences of all ages.
This song has been an emotional cornerstone in Bollywood for over a decade, often played in times of reflection and remembrance. “Kal Ho Naa Ho” remains a song that defines not just a generation, but an entire era in Bollywood.
There are many other iconic Bollywood songs that you can play on piano. For instance, in this Reddit thread, you can find a list of many other songs that come recommended as key songs with piano as the key accompaniment that you can make an arrangement for. You can also explore the Skoove for many other bollywood song tutorials.
Can you please recommend any Bollywood songs that have piano as the main instrument?
byu/LetterheadDue7169 inBollywoodMusic
Is it easy or hard to play Bollywood songs on piano?
Playing some of the best Bollywood songs on the piano can vary in difficulty depending on the song’s arrangement. Many Bollywood tracks can be quite intricate. Songs like “Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai” or “Afghan Jalebi” rely on subtle melodic shifts and rhythmic changes that may require practice for beginners.
However, songs like “Kal Ho Naa Ho” offer a more straightforward composition, making it easier for newer pianists to pick up. Bollywood music’s emphasis on melody makes it accessible, and with the right guidance – such as using interactive tutorials on Skoove – even the more complex songs can be broken down and learned step by step.
Here is a video by Rishabh Syal playing various popular Bollywood songs on the piano:
If you’re new to piano and Bollywood music, starting with easy piano songs and gradually progressing to more complex pieces is a great way to build your confidence. With consistent practice and a structured learning platform like Skoove, mastering these iconic songs is within reach.
Tips for success: how to master these iconic songs on piano
Playing famous Bollywood songs on the piano is both fun and rewarding, allowing you to explore the emotional depth and rhythmic complexity of these timeless tracks. If you’re just starting out, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Start slow: Many of the best Bollywood songs feature intricate melodies and rhythms in its music. Begin by playing slowly, gradually increasing your speed as you gain confidence.
- Listen carefully: Focus on the nuances in each song. Bollywood music is known for its rich orchestration, so pay attention to background instruments and vocal inflections.
- Practice regularly: Consistent practice is essential for mastering Bollywood songs. Aim for at least 30 minutes of practice each day.
- Use Skoove to learn: If you want to dive into Bollywood music, Skoove’s interactive tutorials can guide you step-by-step, breaking down melodies to help you master them at your own pace.
The impact of Bollywood music on culture
Bollywood music has long shaped Indian culture while crossing borders and influencing global music scenes. More than just entertainment, each song reflects societal values, aspirations, and even political undertones. Tracks like “Afghan Jalebi” and “Ghoomar” celebrate cultural diversity, blending traditional elements with modern appeal, keeping fans connected to their roots.
Bollywood music is a universal language, uniting people at festivals, weddings, and social gatherings. Songs like “Balam Pichkari” and “Gallan Goodiyaan” are staples, bringing people together across generations. Internationally, hits like “Bom Diggy Diggy” have shown Bollywood’s global reach, merging pop, hip-hop, and EDM. For piano learners, Bollywood’s rich musical textures offer a unique, rewarding challenge on platforms like Skoove.
Conclusion
Bollywood music has shaped generations and remains a global cultural force, with its vibrant and diverse sound at the heart of celebrations, family gatherings, and emotional milestones. From the elegance of “Ghoomar” to the infectious energy of “Bom Diggy Diggy,” Bollywood’s rich musical legacy continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Learning to play the best Bollywood songs on the piano for yourself or looking for the best Bollywood wedding piano songs? Skoove offers a unique opportunity to dive into its dynamic rhythms and melodies. With structured lessons through Skoove, you can bring these iconic tracks to life, embarking on a musical journey that bridges generations and cultures.
Author of this blog post:
Susana Pérez Posada
With over seven years of piano education and a deep passion for music therapy, Susana brings a unique blend of expertise to Skoove. A graduate in Music Therapy from SRH Hochschule Heidelberg and an experienced classical pianist from Universidad EAFIT, she infuses her teaching with a holistic approach that transcends traditional piano lessons. Susana’s writings for Skoove combine her rich musical knowledge with engaging storytelling, enriching the learning experience for pianists of all levels. Away from the piano, she loves exploring new places and immersing herself in a good book, believing these diverse experiences enhance her creative teaching style.
Published by Lydia Ogn from the Skoove team
