BBC Asian Network listeners have cast their votes to decide the nation’s favourite Bollywood song. Although Indian cinema has become increasingly popular in the UK in recent decades, it seems classics remain the most beloved, with Baharon Phool Barsao (Sprinkle the Flowers), from 1066 Bollywood blockbuster Suraj (Sun) soundtrack, emerging as the number one.
The hit was one of 100 Hindi songs released between 1914 and 2010 which were handpicked by experts for the poll. Panel members came from a variety of backgrounds, and included Indian hip hop artist Hard Kaur and Indian film critic and entertainment reporter Rajeev Masand. The survey is part of the stations ongoing celebrations of the centenary of Bollywood.
More than anything else, Bollywood has come to be characterized by it’s epic song and dance numbers, with some production numbers costing millions of pounds to execute. As well as stand alone cinematic scores, songs often go on to become club hits and classic wedding songs.
“Bollywood is huge and massively popular for our listeners. Counting down the Top 100 Bollywood songs is a great way to celebrate all things Bollywood”
Tracks are often laid down in studios long before footage is shot, and movie leads often lip sync along to expertly produced hits. As a result, audience members often have the pleasure of enjoying both their favourite actor on the big screen whist simultaneously listening to popular singers providing the backing.
According to Asian Network presenter Noreen Khan, who was also on the shortlisting panel,”Audiences flock to the cinema to watch a movie at times just because of one song they’ve heard. A big part of its success and appeal is the music – the songs and music are the soul of the movie.”
Speaking about the poll, Neila Butt, Asian Network’s editor of music and live events said, “Bollywood is huge and massively popular for our listeners. Counting down the Top 100 Bollywood songs is a great way to celebrate all things Bollywood”
The UK’s Top Ten Bollywood Songs:
- 1. Baharon Phool Barsao – Suraj
- 2. Awaara Hoon – Awaara
- 3. Tujhe Dekha To – Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
- 4. Ajeeb Dastan Hai Yeh – Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai
- 5. Kabhi Kabhi Mere Dil Mein – Kabhi Kabhie
- 6. Tere Liye – Veer-Zaara
- 7. Yeh Dosti – Sholay
- 8. Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya – Mughal-e-Azam
- 9. Chaiyya Chaiyya – Dil Se
- 10. Chalte Chalte – Pakeezah
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