Dev Anand@100: 10 evergreen songs that are observations on love and life

India's Gregory Peck, the late legendary actor Dev Anand turns 100 on September 26, 2023.

One of the most revered and celebrated actors of Indian cinema, Dev Anand has played the fun-loving rogue, the romantic hero, a dashing con artist and the charming spy numerous times in his career spanning across six decades and over 100 films.

His movies have left an indelible mark on his fans but there is nowhere better to look for insights on love and life than in the songs from his films. The evergreen superstar had some of the most memorable songs shot on him and the stylish actor, with his impish smile and flamboyant streak has made them his own. On the 100th birth anniversary today of the Padma Bhushan recipient, here’s a look at some of his most insightful and evergreen songs.

Main Zindagi ka Saath Nibhata Chala Gaya – Hum Dono (1961)

If ever there was a song about taking life as it comes and going with the flow, this would be it. Sahir Ludhianvi’s lyrics might sound like simple, everyday words but they encapsulate the journey of life, where one should celebrate not just the joys but even the sorrows, and embrace what life brings for us instead of regretting what it didn’t. Mohammad’s Rafi’s soulful voice coupled with Dev Anand’s natural nonchalance made this an evergreen song which rings true even after five decades.

Hai Apna Dil to Awara – Solva Saal (1958)

Composed by SD Burman and sung by the legendary Hemant Kumar, this track is an ode to the heart which is a wanderer by nature. The singer sings about his heart but almost as if the heart is another person. Urdu wordsmith Majrooh Sultanpuri weaves in his magic with his lyrics about the wanderings of the carefree heart. The mouth-organ played by RD Burman added to the charm of the number.

Gaata Rahe Mera Dil – Guide (1965)

A cult classic, Guide remains one of the most celebrated Indian films of all time. Starring Dev Anand as a tour guide and Waheeda Rahman as the suppressed wife of a wealthy archaeologist, the film’s music was composed by SD Burman and its soundtrack is often listed among the greatest soundtracks of Hindi films. Each of its numbers is memorable even today but Gaata Rahe Mera Dil sung by Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar has a special place in listeners’ hearts for its celebratory tone and ode to young love.

Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke – Nau Do Gyarah (1957)

Vijay Anand’s directorial debut, Nau Do Gyarah was a comedy thriller starring Kalpana Kartik and Dev Anand. The songs were composed by SD Burman and along with Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, also had the popular Aankhon Mein Kya Ji, Roopehla Badal as part of the soundtrack. The former, sung by Kishore Kumar, epitomises the joy of companionship. The essence of the song lies in the simple lyrics by Majrooh Sultanpuri which convey that two hearts do not need words but emotions to express how they feel.

Kiska Rasta Dekhe – Joshila (1973)

There was something about Kishore Kumar’s voice that could capture pain and loneliness in a way that only he could. It is this ache of loneliness that the singer conveys in the song composed by RD Burman with lyrics by Sahir Ludhianvi. In the song, Dev Anand who is wrongfully accused of murder is behind bars and sings about the pain of being left all alone.

Shokhiyon Mein Ghola Jaaye – Prem Pujari (1970)

There is an intoxication in true love and Neeraj’s lyrics do full justice to this playful, yet insightful song about the heady feeling of pyaar and mohabbat. Sample this – rang mein pighle sona ang se yun ras chhlake, jaise baje dhun koi raat mein halke halke, dhoop mein chaaon mein jhoomti hawaaon mein, hard dum kare jo intezaar woh pyar hai. Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar’s love duet might look at the world through rose-coloured glasses, but then, that is what intoxication does, right?

Jeevan Ke Safar Mein Rahi – Munimji (1955)

Sahir Ludhianvi’s playful side comes to the fore with this upbeat number which Dev Anand’s character sings for Nalini Jaywant’s character in the film. With a lot of teasing and a touch of naughtiness, the lyrics observe how those who have beauty on their side often fail to spot the true gestures of love. The song might be playful but it also talks about the everlasting memories that love leaves behind in its wake.

Chahe Koi Khush Ho – Taxi Driver (1954)

Although not as popular as some of the other songs in this list, this is an underrated gem sung playfully by Kishore Kumar who is ably supported by Johnny Walker. The song expresses how one should not pay heed to what others say about you and live life the way you want. Sahir Ludhianvi, once again, gets to showcase his ability to philosophise about life without using complicated words.

Teri Dhoom Har Kahin – Kala Bazar (1960)

The only film to have the three Anand brothers – Dev, Vijay and Chetan – together, the plot revolves around the protagonist who strays towards the wrong path, only to realise his mistake and make amends for it. In Teri Dhoom Har Kahin, Shailendra’s lyrics capture the lure of money which makes the world lust after it. Mohammad Rafi’s melodious voice is the perfect instrument to convey its deep meaning.

Wahan Kaun Hai Tera Musafir – Guide (1965)

SD Burman’s thin yet powerful voice was perfect for this almost bard-like commentary on the transient nature of life and love. The credit-title song of the film shows Dev Anand’s character walking out of jail with all his belongings hanging from his shoulder. The lyrics by Shailendra are like a soothing advice to the weary traveller to not hold on to things and emotions and instead to move on in life.