In a recent interview, music composer Viju Shah shared insights about his work on the 1998 hit movie “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan,” starring Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda. Known for its catchy songs and lively performances, the film remains a favorite among Bollywood fans.
Crafting the Soundtrack
During his chat with Radio Nasha, Viju Shah recalled how he crafted the memorable songs for the film. He described the characters played by Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda as “Bhindi bazaar types,” meaning they had a street-smart, local flavor. This influenced the music significantly.
A Unique Musical Approach
Shah mentioned that director David Dhawan had a clear vision for the music: it needed to be energetic and make people want to dance. To match this, Shah created tunes that had a distinctive Indian vibe but were also a bit heavier and different from the usual trends of that time. He used a variety of Indian instruments to achieve this unique sound.
Collaboration and Creation
Working with director David Dhawan and lyricist Sameer, Shah recalled that their music discussions were highly productive. They would start brainstorming at 9 am and usually finalize a song by 10 am. This efficient collaboration led to the creation of some unforgettable tracks.
The Story Behind “Kisi Disco Mein Jaayein”
One of the most popular songs from the movie, “Kisi Disco Mein Jaayein,” featuring Govinda and Raveena Tandon, has an interesting backstory. Shah revealed that the line “Chalo Ishq Ladayein” was the first one penned for the song, setting the tone for its commercial appeal and vibrant feel.
Favorite Track: The Title Song
Shah’s personal favorite from the movie is the title track, “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan.” He shared that it was the first song recorded for the film, setting the stage for the rest of the soundtrack.
The Film’s Legacy
“Bade Miyan Chote Miyan,” directed by David Dhawan, featured Amitabh Bachchan and Govinda in dual roles, along with Ramya Krishnan, Anupam Kher, and Paresh Rawal. The story revolves around two police inspectors and their hilarious adventures, made even more chaotic by two lookalike thieves.
Recent Works
Amitabh Bachchan was recently seen in the 2024 film “Kalki 2898 AD,” directed by Nag Ashwin and featuring stars like Prabhas and Deepika Padukone. Govinda, known for his comedy classics, last appeared in the 2019 film “Rangeela Raja.”
The timeless appeal of “Bade Miyan Chote Miyan” and its music continues to resonate with audiences, thanks to Viju Shah’s innovative compositions and the film’s entertaining storyline.
