MUMBAI: Down the ages, Bollywood lullabies have lulled several generations to sleep. Some win hands down over the traditional ditties our grandmothers crooned in our ears. Interestingly, we could find more lullabies in the 50s, 60s and 70s than in the post 2000 era. Is Bollywood losing its lullaby touch?
Surmayee Akhiyon Mein, Sadmaa (1983)
Singer- Yesudas
Music Director- Ilayaraaja
Kamal Hassan crooning this track to Sridevi can still get a tear to the eye. Beautifully sung, this soothing melody can put any colicky baby to sleep in minutes.
Chanda Hai Tu Mera Suraj Hai Tu, Aradhana (1969)
Singer- Lata Mangeshkar
No childhood is complete with this anthem. Soppy by today's standards perhaps, it nevertheless helped ensure that many a 60s kid went to bed at the right time.
Chanda Mama Door, Vachan (1950)
Singer- Asha Bhosle
Asha's lilting voice brings to this litle ditty the right balance of mischief and drowsiness at the end of a long day. Still fresh, after being in circulation for over half a century.
Lalla Lalla Lori Doodh Ki Katori, Mukti (1977)
Singer- Mukesh
Now, this one was up there when Antakshari was played, and perhaps still is. Hardly anyone may recall seeing it on screen, but everyone knew how to sing it. Mukesh isn't our favourite for a lullaby, but heck, it worked. Kids did sleep.
Chandaniya Lori Lori - Rowdy Rathore (2012)
Singer- Shreya Ghoshal
Finally, one that the present generation of toddlers can identify with. Shreya with her soft voice does ultimate justice to this number. Will she be singing it soon for her own tot, we wonder.
Mere Ghar Aayi Ek Nanhi Pari, Kabhi Kabhie (1976)
Singer- Lata Mangeshkar
The mothers always reserved this one for their darling daughters, perhaps with good reason. The imagery it evocated rings true even after so many years - generations of teenage girls could swear testimony to its efficacy.