Bole Chudiyan Crowned UK’s Favorite Noughties Bollywood Track

In a recent poll conducted by BBC Asian Network, “Bole Chudiyan” from the iconic film Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham has been voted the UK’s ultimate noughties Bollywood song.

Listeners were invited to choose their favorite track from a shortlist of 50 songs curated by a panel that included station presenters Haroon Rashid, Nikita Kanda, Gagan Grewal, and Vallisa Chauhan, alongside industry experts such as Asim Burney, Natasha Retnasingam, and music producer Farooq Got Audio.

Among the contenders, memorable songs like “Kal Ho Naa Ho,” “Desi Girl” from Dostana, and “Teri Ore” from Singh is Kinng are recognized for marking significant moments in people’s lives. However, it was “Bole Chudiyan,” released in 2001, that emerged victorious, celebrated for its vibrant association with the family drama starring Bollywood legends Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Hrithik Roshan.

Composed by Jatin-Lalit and featuring the voices of prominent artists like Amit Kumar, Sonu Nigam, Alka Yagnik, Udit Narayan, and Kavita Krishnamurthy, the song captures the essence of Bollywood’s rich tradition of weaving music and dance into storytelling.

Karan Johar, the film’s director, expressed his gratitude upon learning of the song’s achievement, stating, “I think we’re living in an age where nostalgia is so much more respected.” He emphasized his pride in the legacy of films from the Shah Rukh Khan era, noting their lasting impact on audiences.

Actress Janhvi Kapoor remarked on the cultural significance of Johar’s films, stating, “The movies haven’t just influenced cinema; they’ve influenced generations and personalities.” Rani Mukerji echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the hard work of those behind the scenes and expressing her gratitude for being part of such memorable projects.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan also reflected on her experiences, emphasizing the collaborative nature of filmmaking and the talents she has had the privilege to work with.

The 2000s marked a pivotal time in Bollywood, witnessing the rise of contemporary stars such as Ranbir Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Hrithik Roshan. The accessibility of music through streaming platforms has further solidified the global reach of these films.

The top 10 songs from the poll include:

1. Bole Chudiyan (Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham)
2. Kal Ho Naa Ho (Kal Ho Naa Ho)
3. Tujh Mein Rab Dikhta Hai (Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi)
4. Humko Humise Chura Lo (Mohabbatein)
5. Main Yahaan Hoon (Veer-Zaara)
6. Tere Ore (Singh is Kinng)
7. Desi Girl (Dostana)
8. Dil Ne Yeh Kaha Hai Dil Se (Dhadkan)
9. Kajra Re (Bunty Aur Babli)
10. Dola Re Dola (Devdas)