Mumbai. Janmashtami is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country. Temples are beautifully decorated, tableaux featuring Laddu Gopal are prepared at homes, and devotees eagerly wait for the birth of Lord Krishna at midnight. Dahi Handi, bhajans and music are also an integral part of the festival. Bollywood has brought Krishna’s divine pastimes, the love of Radha and Krishna, and Kanha’s playful nature to audiences through several memorable songs. As a result, many of these film songs continue to be an essential part of Janmashtami playlists.
‘Radha Kaise Na Jale’ – Whenever Janmashtami is mentioned, ‘Radha Kaise Na Jale’ is one song that inevitably comes to mind. Featured in the 2001 film Lagaan, the song presents a playful depiction of the relationship between Radha and Krishna. Aamir Khan appears in the role inspired by Krishna, while Gracy Singh plays Radha. The song beautifully captures Radha’s playful complaints and jealousy when she sees her Krishna with other Gopis. Asha Bhosle and Udit Narayan lent their voices to the song, while A.R. Rahman composed the music and Javed Akhtar wrote the lyrics.
‘Woh Kisna Hai’ – If you want to enjoy grand and devotional music on Janmashtami, ‘Woh Kisna Hai’ deserves a place on your playlist. The song is from the 2005 film Kisna: The Warrior Poet, which starred Vivek Oberoi in the lead role. The song describes Krishna’s divine appearance, strength and captivating personality. Sukhwinder Singh, Ismail Darbar and Ayesha Darbar provided the vocals, while Javed Akhtar penned the lyrics. The song beautifully blends devotion with a festive spirit.
‘Maiyya Yashoda’ – ‘Maiyya Yashoda’, based on the childhood antics of Krishna and his relationship with Mother Yashoda, is a particularly charming song. Featured in Sooraj Barjatya’s 1999 film Hum Saath-Saath Hain, the song stars Karisma Kapoor, Tabu and Sonali Bendre, who playfully complain about Krishna’s mischievous ways. The song was sung by Alka Yagnik, Anuradha Paudwal and Kavita Krishnamurti. Even today, children and women can be seen dancing to this song during Janmashtami cultural programmes.
‘Bada Natkhat Hai Re’ – From the 1972 film Amar Prem, ‘Bada Natkhat Hai Re’ continues to be regarded as one of the most beloved songs dedicated to Lord Krishna. The song portrays the mischievous nature of child Krishna from a mother’s perspective. Lata Mangeshkar’s soulful voice made the song particularly memorable. Anand Bakshi wrote the lyrics, while R.D. Burman composed the music. Its simple and emotional presentation immediately evokes the image of Mother Yashoda and child Krishna.
‘Go Go Govinda’ – Janmashtami brings tremendous excitement around Dahi Handi celebrations, and the song ‘Go Go Govinda’ captures that energy perfectly. Featured in Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal’s film OMG – Oh My God!, the song features Sonakshi Sinha and Prabhu Deva delivering energetic dance performances. It showcases the festive atmosphere of Dahi Handi and the tradition of breaking the earthen pot in an energetic style. Shreya Ghoshal and Aman Trikha have lent their voices to the song. It continues to be widely played at Janmashtami celebrations.
‘Radhe Radhe’ – Ayushmann Khurrana’s film Dream Girl gave the younger generation a vibrant Janmashtami track with ‘Radhe Radhe’. Released in 2019, the song features Ayushmann Khurrana and Nushrratt Bharuccha. It presents the relationship between Radha and Krishna in a contemporary and modern style. Amit Gupta and Meet Bros provided the vocals. The lyrics highlight the love between Radha and Krishna and the feeling of incompleteness in each other’s absence.
‘Mohe Rang Do Laal’ – ‘Mohe Rang Do Laal’, picturised on Deepika Padukone, also holds a special place among songs associated with Lord Krishna. The song is from Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film Bajirao Mastani. Deepika’s character is seen worshipping Lord Krishna, while the song offers a beautiful blend of classical music and dance. Shreya Ghoshal and Pandit Birju Maharaj’s vocals and musical contribution made the song particularly special.
