11 Underrated Bollywood Songs: Beyond the Hits

Hey there, music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and fellow music aficionado. Today, I’m super excited to share something special with you all.

As a DJ, I’ve always had a soft spot for Bollywood music, and through my journey, I’ve come across some truly amazing tracks that, unfortunately, haven’t received the spotlight they deserve.

So, I decided to dive deep into my collection and curate a list of 11 underrated Bollywood songs.

These gems have not only captivated me but also have the magic to transport any listener to a different world. Whether you’re a hardcore Bollywood fan or just looking for something new to add to your playlist, this list is for you. Let’s uncover these hidden treasures together and celebrate the diversity and richness of Bollywood music!

Here are the underrated Bollywood songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Bollywood Songs

Underrated Bollywood songs in a list format:

1. “Kabira” by Arijit Singh & Harshdeep Kaur (from “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani”, 2013, T-Series)

“Kabira” is a soul-stirring track from the hit movie “Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani”. Sung by the mesmerizing Arijit Singh and Harshdeep Kaur, it was released in 2013 under the T-Series label. This song stands out for its poignant lyrics and the way it beautifully blends traditional Indian instruments with a modern sound. It’s a song that resonates with those who’ve experienced longing and love, making it a personal favorite.

2. “Iktara” by Amit Trivedi, Kavita Seth, & Amitabh Bhattacharya (from “Wake Up Sid”, 2009, Sony Music)

“Iktara” from “Wake Up Sid”, released in 2009 by Sony Music, is a melodious tune that often goes unnoticed. Composed by the talented Amit Trivedi and sung by Kavita Seth and Amitabh Bhattacharya, this song has a folk feel that touches the soul. Its simplistic yet profound lyrics and serene melody make it a go-to for anyone seeking solace in music. It’s a hidden gem that perfectly encapsulates the feeling of finding oneself.

3. “Shaam” by Amit Trivedi (from “Aisha”, 2010, Sony Music)

“Shaam” is a delightful track from the film “Aisha”, released in 2010 under Sony Music. This Amit Trivedi creation is a light-hearted and breezy song that brings a smile to your face. Its easy-going melody and joyful vibe make it an excellent pick for a relaxed evening or a long drive. Despite its charm, “Shaam” remains underrated, and I believe it deserves more recognition for its feel-good factor.

4. “Aahatein” by Agnee (from “Splitsvilla 4”, 2011, Sony Music)

“Aahatein” is not from a Bollywood movie but gained popularity through the reality show “Splitsvilla 4”. Released in 2011 by Sony Music, this song by Agnee is a beautiful blend of rock and soulful Indian music. Its haunting melody and profound lyrics about love and separation strike a chord with listeners. The unique fusion of genres and the emotional depth of this song make it a must-listen.

5. “Manjha” by Amit Trivedi (from “Kai Po Che”, 2013, T-Series)

“Manjha” from “Kai Po Che”, released in 2013 by T-Series, is a song that beautifully captures the essence of hope and friendship. Amit Trivedi’s composition and the heartfelt lyrics make this song a soulful and uplifting experience. The use of traditional string instruments adds depth to the track, making it resonate with a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

6. “Baanware” by Nandini Srikar & Arijit Singh (from “Shor in the City”, 2011, Sony Music)

“Baanware” from “Shor in the City”, released in 2011 under Sony Music, is a song that showcases the versatility of Bollywood music. Sung by Nandini Srikar and Arijit Singh, this track is an enchanting mix of classical and contemporary styles. Its haunting melody and poetic lyrics make it a masterpiece that stands out for its artistic depth.

7. “Khoon Chala” by Mohit Chauhan (from “Rang De Basanti”, 2006, Sony Music)

“Khoon Chala” from the revolutionary film “Rang De Basanti” (2006) is an emotional and powerful track by Mohit Chauhan. Released under Sony Music, it’s a song that evokes a sense of patriotism and introspection. The compelling lyrics and Mohit Chauhan’s soulful voice create an impactful and moving experience, making it a song that stirs the heart.

8. “Phir Le Aya Dil” by Rekha Bhardwaj, Arijit Singh, & Shafqat Amanat Ali (from “Barfi!”, 2012, Sony Music)

“Phir Le Aya Dil” from “Barfi!” (2012) is a song that exudes deep emotion and nostalgia. Sung by Rekha Bhardwaj, Arijit Singh, and Shafqat Amanat Ali, this track released under Sony Music is a masterpiece of lyrical beauty and melodic grace. The song’s soulful rendition and the poignant feel make it a timeless classic that deserves more recognition.

9. “Kun Faya Kun” by A.R. Rahman, Javed Ali, & Mohit Chauhan (from “Rockstar”, 2011, T-Series)

“Kun Faya Kun” from “Rockstar” (2011), composed by the legendary A.R. Rahman and sung by Javed Ali and Mohit Chauhan, is a spiritual and soulful track released under T-Series. This song stands out for its divine melody and the way it seamlessly blends Sufi elements with contemporary music. Its spiritual depth and uplifting melody make it a transcendent experience.

10. “Aas Paas Khuda” by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan & Shruti Pathak (from “Anjaana Anjaani”, 2010, T-Series)

“Aas Paas Khuda” from “Anjaana Anjaani” (2010) is an underrated gem sung by Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Shruti Pathak. Released under T-Series, this song is a blend of soulful lyrics and melodious tunes. The emotional depth conveyed through Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s voice and the soothing backdrop make it a song that resonates with hope and faith.

11. “Tu Bin Bataye” by Naresh Iyer & Madhushree (from “Rang De Basanti”, 2006, Sony Music)

Finally, “Tu Bin Bataye” from “Rang De Basanti” (2006), sung by Naresh Iyer and Madhushree, is a heartfelt and serene track. Released by Sony Music, this song captures the essence of love and longing with its soft melody and tender lyrics. Its gentle rhythm and the emotional depth of the vocals make it a beautifully understated piece of music that touches the soul.

Fun Facts: Underrated Bollywood Songs

“Kabira” by Arijit Singh & Harshdeep Kaur

• Fusion of Styles: “Kabira” is renowned for its seamless blend of Indian folk music with contemporary beats. This fusion gives it a timeless quality that appeals to a wide range of listeners.
• Lyrics and Setting: The song was shot in a traditional Indian wedding setting, and its lyrics, which speak of love and parting, perfectly complement the poignant scene in the movie.
• Popularity Beyond Bollywood: “Kabira” has transcended Bollywood music, being covered and reinterpreted by numerous artists worldwide, further testament to its universal appeal.

“Iktara” by Amit Trivedi, Kavita Seth, & Amitabh Bhattacharya

• Amit Trivedi’s Breakthrough: “Iktara” was one of the early songs that established Amit Trivedi as a unique voice in Bollywood music, known for his distinct style of composition.
• Kavita Seth’s Soulful Voice: The song brought singer Kavita Seth into the limelight, praised for her deeply soulful and earthy rendition that added depth to the track.
• Impromptu Creation: Interestingly, “Iktara” was almost an impromptu addition to the movie ‘Wake Up Sid’, and it went on to become one of the film’s most beloved tracks.

“Shaam” by Amit Trivedi

• Feel-Good Vibes: “Shaam” is often cited for its upbeat and feel-good vibes, making it a popular choice for casual listening and positive playlists.
• Unique Instrumentation: The song features a blend of Western and Indian instruments, including the guitar and tabla, creating a distinctive sound that’s both fresh and nostalgic.

“Manjha” by Amit Trivedi

• Deep Symbolism: The song “Manjha” is rich in symbolism. The term ‘Manjha’ refers to the string used to fly kites, symbolizing the threads of hope and connection in the movie ‘Kai Po Che’.
• Award-Winning Composition: Amit Trivedi’s work on “Kai Po Che”, including “Manjha”, received critical acclaim and several awards, further cementing his status as a premier Bollywood composer.

“Kun Faya Kun” by A.R. Rahman, Javed Ali, & Mohit Chauhan

• Sufi Influence: “Kun Faya Kun” is deeply rooted in Sufi music traditions, with its title translating to “Be, and it is”, showcasing the mystical and spiritual depth of the song.
• Recorded at a Sacred Site: This track was recorded at the dargah (shrine) of Sufi saint Nizamuddin Auliya in Delhi, adding to its authenticity and spiritual resonance.
• A.R. Rahman’s Signature Touch: Known for his genius in blending traditional and modern music, A.R. Rahman’s composition in “Kun Faya Kun” is often cited as a masterclass in musical fusion.

And there you have it, folks! A musical journey through Bollywood’s hidden gems. Each song is a story in itself, rich in melody and emotion. I hope you’ve enjoyed discovering these underrated masterpieces as much as I enjoyed sharing them. Dive into these tracks and let the music speak to your soul!

Thanks for reading.

TBone