Bollywood, one of the largest film industries in the world, has a long history of borrowing inspiration from poetry and literature. From iconic classics like Mughal-e-Azam to contemporary hits like Gully Boy, Bollywood songs are often peppered with poetic verses and metaphors. It is undeniable that poetry and literature have played a significant role in shaping Bollywood song lyrics, both in terms of language and content.
One of the earliest examples of literary influence on Bollywood song lyrics can be traced back to the 1950s, when Urdu poetry was popularized in films. At that time, Urdu was considered the language of romance and was associated with a rich cultural heritage. Bollywood filmmakers recognized the potential of Urdu poetry to convey emotional depth and employed it to create some of the most memorable songs in Hindi cinema.
For instance, the song “Awaara Hoon” from the movie Awaara (1951) became a cultural phenomenon of its time, owing to the poetic lyrics by Shailendra and the haunting voice of Mohammad Rafi. Similarly, the song “Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam” from the movie Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959) is an ode to unrequited love, with lyrics penned by Kaifi Azmi.
Over the years, Bollywood has continued to borrow from different literary genres, including folk poetry, ghazals, and even Shakespearean sonnets. The song “Phir Le Aaya Dil” from the movie Barfi! (2012) is a modern take on the ghazal form, with lyrics by Swanand Kirkire and music by Pritam. The movie Dev D (2009) used the poetry of Amitabh Bhattacharya and Shellee to create an edgy and contemporary soundscape, which had never been seen before in mainstream Bollywood.
Literature has also played a crucial role in shaping the narrative of Bollywood songs. Many songs are inspired by classic tales or philosophical concepts, which lend them a timeless quality. The song “Jab Tak Hai Jaan” from the movie of the same name (2012) is an example of how Salman Khan uses the Sufi concept of Ishq to highlight the power of love. Similarly, the song “Hai Rama” from the movie Rangeela (1995) is loosely based on the love story of Krishna and Radha from Indian mythology.
In conclusion, poetry and literature have had a significant impact on Bollywood song lyrics, shaping them both in terms of language and content. Borrowing from these rich cultural resources has not only enriched the language of Bollywood but has also allowed filmmakers to explore deeper emotional themes. Even today, poets and lyricists continue to experiment with different literary forms to create songs that transcend language and culture, appealing to audiences around the world.