Bollywood's Perfect Remakes: 7 Songs That Mastered Nostalgia & Modern Beats
Bollywood has a rich tradition of recreating classic songs for new audiences. Some remakes manage to strike a perfect balance between honoring the original and introducing fresh energy. Here are seven standout examples that achieved this delicate harmony.
'Aankh Marey' (2018)
The original 'Aankh Marey' appeared in the 1996 film 'Tere Mere Sapne'. The remake arrived in 2018's 'Simmba' starring Ranveer Singh and Sara Ali Khan. This new version featured an energised remix style with very upbeat beats. The choreography became more dance-oriented. Contemporary production techniques transformed it into a perfect club song. The familiar hook made it instantly recognizable. As a result, it quickly became a party favourite across numerous playlists. Listeners appreciated both the nostalgia and the modern twist.
'Cheez Badi' (2017)
'Tu Cheez Badi Hai Mast Mast' from the 1994 film 'Mohra' received a complete transformation. The 2017 film 'Machine' introduced it as 'Cheez Badi'. This remix specifically targeted a younger audience with its club-friendly arrangement. Opinions about the remake were certainly divided. However, the song gained significant traction among listeners unfamiliar with the original version. Its catchy rhythm made it a frequent pick at parties and social gatherings. The remake successfully introduced this classic tune to an entirely new generation of music lovers.
'Dilbar' (2018)
Alka Yagnik first sang 'Dilbar' for the 1999 film 'Sirf Tum'. The song found spectacular new life nearly two decades later. The recreated version featured Nora Fatehi and showcased a strong Middle Eastern musical influence. Her powerful performance added a stunning visual spectacle that elevated the song's overall appeal. This remix went on to break multiple records. It became the first Hindi song to cross one billion views on YouTube. The track marked a genuine turning point for Bollywood dance numbers in the digital age.
'Laila Main Laila' (2017)
'Laila Main Laila' first appeared in the 1980 film 'Qurbani'. Shah Rukh Khan's 'Raees' featured a recreation in 2017. This remix starred Sunny Leone and skillfully blended retro elements with modern music production. The song retained its classic and beloved melody throughout. Producers added a polished, contemporary edge to the overall sound. Its strategic placement within the film's narrative added to its widespread popularity. Fans particularly appreciated how the remake honored the spirit of the original track while feeling fresh.
'Saaki Saaki' (2019)
The original 'Saaki Saaki' was part of the 2004 film 'Musafir'. The 2019 action drama 'Batla House' presented a remixed version. This update featured a noticeably heavier bass line and contemporary beats. Once again, Nora Fatehi delivered a powerful dance performance that became the undeniable highlight. The song's infectious tempo made it an instant favourite at parties and dance events. Critics noted that the remix managed to stand out on its own merits while still respecting the original song's distinctive vibe.
'Tamma Tamma Again' (2017)
The iconic 'Tamma Tamma Loge' from the 1990 film 'Thanedaar' received a creative reimagining. 'Badrinath Ki Dulhania' introduced it as 'Tamma Tamma Again' in 2017. This version cleverly combined Badshah's rap elements with the song's original rhythmic structure. Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt's energetic screen presence added a layer of freshness and charm. Despite the clear modern twist, the remake stayed remarkably true to the playful spirit of the original. It went on to dominate music charts immediately upon its release.
'Tip Tip Barsa Paani' (2021)
Rain songs and Bollywood share an inseparable connection. 'Tip Tip Barsa Paani' from 'Mohra' remains one of the most iconic examples. The song received a glossy remake in the 2021 film 'Sooryavanshi'. This version featured Katrina Kaif and Akshay Kumar. The recreation stayed very close to the original musical composition. However, it updated the visuals and sound production for a contemporary audience. Its release sparked widespread conversations across social media platforms. The song once again proved its timeless and enduring appeal to listeners of all ages.
These seven songs demonstrate Bollywood's successful formula for remakes. They preserve the emotional core of the originals that fans cherish. Simultaneously, they incorporate modern production values that appeal to today's listeners. This balance between nostalgia and new-age music continues to create memorable hits for the industry.
