As Rang De Basanti celebrates its 20th anniversary today, the film’s music by maestro A.R. Rahman continues to resonate deeply. Tracks like Luka Chuppi, sung by Lata Mangeshkar, the youthful anthem Masti Ki Paathshala, and many others remain evergreen favorites. Filmmaker Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, who directed the landmark film, reveals fascinating insights into the creation of the music.
Mehra reflects, “I believe the film has turned 20 years younger instead of older. Blessings often come in disguise. Just as we were about to start shooting, I was hospitalized with severe jaundice. However, since everyone’s schedules were locked, we began rehearsals and recorded the entire film like a radio program before shooting. I took that recording to A.R. Rahman in Chennai. He sat at his piano and started composing the tracks based on what he heard.”
Talking about the emotional number Luka Chuppi, featuring veteran actor Waheeda Rehman, Mehra shares a special moment: “The film was complete and we were working on the background score when A.R. Rahman saw the scene, stopped everything, and spontaneously composed that song. It wasn’t planned—it was born from that moment.”
He also reveals that Khoon Chala was inspired by a Sahir Ludhianvi poem, beautifully transformed into music by Rahman. Mehra emphasizes their deep creative bond beyond just filmmakers and composer: “We have collaborated on two films, Rang De Basanti and Delhi 6, both huge hits. Our process involves extensive conversations about the film, the characters, and why the story needs to be told. I’m not chasing hits or box office numbers. We share meals, go on drives, and that’s when the music flows.”
Addressing Rahman’s recent comments about feeling underutilized, Mehra dismisses any notion of Rahman’s music losing relevance: “There’s no such thing as missing A.R. Rahman’s music in films because his work is timeless. I love his music deeply. Just as we treasure classics by Shankar-Jaikishen, Mohammed Rafi, or Gulzar, we are blessed to have such beautiful compositions from A.R. Rahman.”
Celebrating two decades of Rang De Basanti, Mehra’s reflections highlight the magic behind its iconic soundtrack and the enduring legacy of one of India’s greatest musical geniuses.
