Sunidhi Chauhan reflects on iconic song ‘Kaisi Paheli Zindagani’ ahead of Parineeta re-release, says "Rekha Ji lit the screen up"

The song had this beautiful old-world charm blended with a cabaret vibe. What made it even more special was that it was picturised on Rekha ji—an icon, a legend, and someone I have admired all my life.

Vidya Balan and Saif Ali Khan starrer timeless romantic drama Parineeta is re-releasing in the theatres to mark the 20th anniversary of the film. The film will be released in precisely restored version of the film

The film's timeless story of love and longing, told with pure artistry and cultural depth, continues to connect personally with every new generation.

Among the movie's most memorable moments is the classic song "Kaisi Paheli Zindagani," and singer Sunidhi Chauhan has talked about the song.

Sunidhi said, “Kaisi Paheli Zindagani was such a unique and refreshing song for me. The song had this beautiful old-world charm blended with a cabaret vibe. What made it even more special was that it was picturised on Rekha ji—an icon, a legend, and someone I have admired all my life."
She added, "When I recorded the song, I had no idea it would be her performing it on screen, and she lit the screen up and made me sound so good. To have my voice match her timeless presence felt like the highest honor. I’m so grateful that even today the song continues to live on in people’s hearts.”

Composed by Shantanu Moitra with lyrics by Swanand Kirkire, this evocative song remains mesmerizing two decades after its debut.

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Adapted from Sarat Chandra Chattopadhyay's iconic 1914 novel, the restoration was handled by Prasad Film Labs. The project is part of a larger initiative by Vinod Chopra Films, which has become the first production house in India to restore its entire library in ultra-high 8K resolution.

The soundtracks have also been remastered in 5.1 surround sound. The extensive restoration process, which took over four years to complete, involved work at the globally acclaimed L'Immagine Ritrovata laboratory in Bologna, Italy.

The re-release of Parineeta celebrates two major anniversaries: Vidya Balan's 20 years in cinema and 50 years of Vinod Chopra Films.

The film is scheduled for an all-India re-release in select theaters for an exclusive one-week engagement, beginning on August 29, 2025.