When Bollywood Turned Folk Tunes Into Modern Anthems
Bollywood’s relationship with folk music isn’t just nostalgic—it’s emotional, rhythmic, and deeply rooted. Over the years, filmmakers and composers have turned traditional melodies into chartbusters that bridge the past and present. These reimagined tracks prove that folk music doesn’t age—it evolves.
1. The ‘Dhurandhar’ Title Track – Old Soul, New Beat
The newly released title track of Dhurandhar is proof that folk never goes out of style—it just finds new ways to groove. Composer Shashwat Sachdev teams up with rapper Hanumankind and singer Jasmin to rework the Punjabi classic Na Dil De Pardesi Nu into something fierce and addictive. The blend of traditional rhythm with modern rap gives the song an electrifying edge—heritage meets hip-hop in perfect sync.
2. “Challa” – Jab Tak Hai Jaan’s Soulful Wanderer
When Rabbi Shergill’s voice hits the first note of Challa, you can almost feel the earthy scent of Punjab. A.R. Rahman doesn’t just compose a song here; he paints a feeling—of longing, of roads that lead nowhere, of hearts that never stop searching. It’s folk, but it’s also a love letter to freedom and belonging.
3. “Naina Da Kya Kasoor” – The Modern Folk Lullaby
Amit Trivedi’s Naina Da Kya Kasoor from Andhadhun is simplicity wrapped in mischief. The melody feels like it’s been sung around firesides for generations, yet it fits perfectly into a city café playlist. Ayushmann Khurrana’s easy vocals carry a teasing innocence—playful, pure, and deeply hummable.
4. “Ambarsariya” – Grace in a Groove
With Ambarsariya from Fukrey, Sona Mohapatra turns a folk gem into a mood. Her voice dances, flirts, and teases, while the minimalist music lets her vocal warmth take the spotlight. There’s no rush—just a slow burn of charm. It’s folk dressed up for the modern city, confident and timeless.
5. “Laung Da Lashkara” – When Bhangra Met Bollywood Swagger
Laung Da Lashkara from Patiala House doesn’t hold back—it celebrates with full dhol power. Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy’s high-octane arrangement is pure wedding energy, horns and beats bursting like fireworks. It’s not just a remix—it’s a rebirth of Punjabi pride and dancefloor chaos.
Why Folk Still Rules Bollywood’s Heart
Folk music carries stories—of love, land, laughter, and loss. Bollywood simply gives those stories a louder speaker. Every generation finds its rhythm in these timeless tunes, proving that folk isn’t a memory; it’s a heartbeat that keeps finding new ways to make us move.
