Bollywood frequently takes the easy route. There has been a scarcity of original songs in Hindi film, with every other musical offering being either recreated or remixed. While the last few years have seen an overabundance of remakes, the 1980s and 1990s were no exception. We had no idea that some of the famous songs sung by legendary artists had been copied. However, they differed because some believed in straight lifts while others were wise enough to adapt it to fit their style. From ‘Mehbooba Mehbooba’ to ‘Koi Mil Gaya,’ here is a list of famous Bollywood songs that were copied.
Ladki Kyon: Hum Tum (2004)
The rhythms for the upbeat tune that went on to become the ultimate disparaging song for young couples were inspired by Andranik Madadian’s song, “Roya.”
Mere Rang Mein Rangne Wali: Maine Pyar Kiya (1989)
The SP Balasubramaniam track that made every ’90s youngster fall in love as well as believe in love was a rip-off of the song ‘The Final Countdown.’
Dheere Dheere Se Meri Zindagi Mein Aana: Aashiqui (1990)
For this movie, Nadeem Shravan received the Filmfare Award for Best Music Director. The song was inspired by the track ‘Come into my life’ by Joyce Sims.
Tip Tip Barsa Paani: Mohra (1994)
While this may be sad for many, it does not change that this was not an original song. It was inspired by Dr Alban’s “Roll Down Di Rubber Man.” We’re sorry if we ruined it for you!
Aye Dil Laya Hai Bahaar: Kya Kehna? (2000)
We believe that a few people are already aware of this heinous crime. We say bravado! How dare you imitate Neil Sedaka’s “Oh! Carol”? The music was a perfect replica of the original. We’re still puzzled as to how they managed to get away with plagiarism.
Koi Mil Gaya: Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)
The pair Jatin-Lalit successfully copied a part of Marti Webb’s song Take That Look Off Your Face, which peaked at number three on the charts. The chorus of the song Koi Mil Gaya can be heard at 0:41 seconds in the music video.
Suniye To: Yes Boss (1997)
Remember how singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya won numerous awards for his voice on this song? In reality, the song dominated the charts for an extended period. Unfortunately, this was also a cover of ‘Ahla Ma Feki,’ recorded by Egyptian pop artist Hisham Abbas.
Tera Mujhse Hai Pehle Ka Naata Koi: Aa Gale Lag Jaa (1973)
The lovely tune of the 1973 song Tera Mujhse Hai Pehle ka Naata Koi was borrowed from an American song called The Yellow Rose of Texas. The lyrics were written in the 1850s by members of the Western Writers of America. Since then, other Holly artists have recorded the song. Among them are Elvis Presley and Mitch Miller.
Chura Liya Hai Tumne Jo Dil Ko: Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973)
Who knew that the love melody featuring Zeenat Aman and created by R.D. Burman in 1973 was also derived from the well-known title track of the English film If it’s Tuesday, this had to be Belgium, right? Walter Scharf published it way back in 1969. So, the truth is out there. R.D. Burman enjoyed experimenting with his songs, and this tune is an excellent example of adopting culture from English songs.
Mehbooba Mehbooba: Sholay (1975)
It stings to learn that one of our favourite songs from the 1970s, sung by R D Burman, was not authentic. It was a rip-off of the famous Greek artist Mihalis Violaris’ song “Ta Rialia.”
Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya: Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya (2001)
Ennio Morricone created an instrumental piece for the Hollywood film Exorcist II: The Heretic, a sequel to the 1973 picture The Exorcist. In 2001, this composition was duplicated and reworked into the new song Pyar Tune Kya Kiya. The minor notes in the original composition that created a sense of dread were cleverly crafted to be turned into a love song.
