Veteran Bollywood actor Jackie Shroff paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary music composer O.P. Nayyar on his 100th birth anniversary. He remembered the musical maestro by sharing a special post on his social media stories.
Jackie Shroff's Social Media Tribute
Jackie Shroff posted a photograph of O.P. Nayyar on his social media stories. He accompanied the image with the iconic song 'Deewana Hua Badal' from the 1964 film 'Kashmir Ki Kali'. This timeless track featured Sharmila Tagore and Shammi Kapoor in the lead roles. Mohammed Rafi and Asha Bhosle lent their voices to the melodious number.
For the caption, Jackie wrote a simple yet emotional message. He stated, "OP Nayyar ji. Always in our hearts. (16 Jan 1926-28 Jan 2007)." This gesture highlighted the enduring respect and admiration for the composer within the film industry.
O.P. Nayyar's Illustrious Career
O.P. Nayyar is widely regarded as one of Indian cinema's most rhythmic and melodious music directors. He made significant contributions to Bollywood over several decades. His work left an indelible mark on the industry.
Collaborations with Singers and Actors
Nayyar worked extensively with renowned playback singers. He frequently collaborated with Geeta Dutt, Asha Bhosle, and Mohammed Rafi. He also worked with Kishore Kumar on films like 'Baap Re Baap' and 'Raagini'. These songs became hits in the characteristic "O. P. style" that fans adored.
He composed music for many iconic actors of his time. His films featured stars such as Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, and Guru Dutt. Other notable names include Dharmendra, Shammi Kapoor, Sunil Dutt, and Madhubala. He also worked with leading actresses like Asha Parekh, Sadhana, Mumtaz, and Sharmila Tagore.
Notable Films and Scores
Nayyar's career began with early works like the background score for 'Kaneez' in 1949. He also composed for the 1952 film 'Aasmaan'. Film producer and director Guru Dutt enlisted him for several projects. Nayyar composed and conducted music for popular films such as 'Aar Paar', 'Mr. & Mrs.55', and 'C.I.D.'.
In 1957, his scores featured prominently in 'Tumsa Nahin Dekha' and 'Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon'. These movies further cemented his reputation as a master composer. Interestingly, Nayyar never worked directly with Lata Mangeshkar. However, her song 'Saari Saari Raat Teri Yaad Satayein' from the 1958 film 'Aji Bas Shukriya' was used in the 1973 Hindi film 'Taxi Driver'. Nayyar served as the music director for that project.
Later Years and Comeback
Nayyar became less active in the 1970s. He did not compose music for younger actors like Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan during that period. However, he made a brief comeback in the 1990s. He returned with films such as 'Mangni' and 'Nishchay' in 1992. He also composed for 'Zid' in 1994.
The legendary musician passed away in January 2007. He suffered a heart attack, marking the end of an era in Bollywood music. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists and music lovers.
Jackie Shroff's tribute serves as a reminder of O.P. Nayyar's timeless contributions. His melodies remain cherished by audiences across India and beyond.
