World Music Day: Celebrating Sanjay Leela Bhansali for bringing Indian music to the global scenario

Since making his directorial debut in 1996 with Khamoshi: The Musical, Bhansali has consistently produced musical masterpieces.

For over a decade, audiences have continued to cherish the cinematic brilliance of Sanjay Leela Bhansali. While his storytelling captivates with its grand, immersive visuals, it’s the music that truly sets his films apart—infusing them with the essence and purity of Indian culture.

His profound knowledge of classical music has solidified his position as a leading figure in the musical landscape of Hindi cinema. It's appropriate to consider Bhansali's remarkable contribution to conserving and honouring the essence of Indian music as we commemorate World Music Day.

Since making his directorial debut in 1996 with Khamoshi: The Musical, Bhansali has consistently produced musical masterpieces. Every project he oversaw, from Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam and Devdas to Guzaarish, Ram-Leela, Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat, Gangubai Kathiawadi, and most recently, the prestigious Netflix series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, featured heartfelt tunes rooted in traditional Indian music.

Every movie or television program appeals to viewers worldwide in addition to capturing the aesthetic beauty of Indian tradition. Bhansali is a skilled music composer in addition to being a filmmaker, and his creations continue to provide a profound window into India's rich cultural and spiritual diversity.

SLB's soundtracks have their roots in Indian folk and classical traditions, whether it's the heartfelt ballads of Devdas or the lavish orchestration of Padmaavat, for which he won the Best Music Director award. He frequently uses the flute's eerie melodies, the sitar and sarangi's delicate notes, and the tabla's complex rhythms in his compositions. Every instrument is regarded as a character, giving the story additional levels of mood and meaning. Sukoon further, his original music album showcased his compositional finesse, offering listeners a contemplative, melodious journey.

Heeramandi also marked a milestone moment in Bhansali’s musical journey—it was the launchpad for his own label, Bhansali Music. The label’s first release, “Sakal Ban,” was unveiled on a global stage during the Miss World 2024 finale. The moment was made even more iconic as the show’s ensemble cast—Manisha Koirala, Sonakshi Sinha, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Sanjeeda Shaikh, and Sharmin Segal—joined Miss World contestants on the ramp, dressed in vibrant shades of yellow inspired by Indian tradition. The launch perfectly encapsulated SLB’s vision of uniting Indian music and culture with global platforms.

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We honour Sanjay Leela Bhansali on this World Music Day not only as a filmmaker but also as a guardian of India's musical heritage. Alongside movie greats like Raj Kapoor, K. Asif, and Guru Dutt, he is a true icon because of his ability to respect the past while embracing the present. His work serves as a constant reminder of the enduring ability of music to inspire, uplift, and heal.

Looking ahead, fans eagerly await SLB’s upcoming film Love & War, which promises yet another cinematic and musical marvel. Featuring an exciting collaboration with Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Vicky Kaushal, the film is slated to release on March 20, 2026.