Do Bollywood Actors Sing Their Own Songs in Films?

From the 1950s to the present day, most actors and actresses in the Bollywood film industry do not actually sing the songs in their movies. Instead, the singing is performed by what the Indian movie industry calls playback singers, who record the songs before the film is made, leaving the actors/actresses to lip-sync to the pre-recorded tunes.

However, in recent years, there have been a few notable exceptions to this norm. Notable instances include the rap song performed by Abhishek Bachchan in both Bluffmaster! and Bol Bachchan, a film by Rohan Sippy.

Historical Context

In the formative years of Indian cinema, actors were more often than not also versatile singers. They performed various songs and sometimes even took on dance roles. However, as cinema evolved, it became more common for actors and singers to work separately. This division has led to the familiar practice of playback singing, where actors lip-sync to songs performed by dedicated singers.

Notable Exceptions

There have been instances where actors have taken on the role of playback singers, either entirely or for a significant portion of their careers. These include:

Madhubala who sang in the films Basant (1942) and Pujari (1946). Diljit Dosanjh, a singer-actor active in both Bollywood and Punjabi cinema. Rajkumar who was honored with a national award for his song Jeevana Chaitra. Meena Kumari', who was a prolific singer, spanning throughout her career. She sang in films such as Duniya Ek Sarai, Piya Ghar Aaja, Bichchade Balam, and one song in Pinjre Ke Panchhi (1966). Notably, she also recorded her own poems in the album I Write I Recite (1971). Vyjayanthimala, who sang songs like Sangam and Hatey Baza Bazar. Abhay Deol, who performed in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. Ajay Devgan, who sang in Bol Bachchan. Alia Bhatt, who sang for Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania, Highway, Udta Punjab, and Dear Zindagi. Amitabh Bachchan, who sang in films like Lawaaris, Silsila, Mahaan, Toofan, Baghban, Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham..., among others, including Bhoothnath and Mr. Natwarlal. Aamir Khan, who performed songs like Aati Kya Khandala in Ghulam, Humreh Bole in Taare Zameen Par, I Hate You in Delhi Belly, and Dhaakad in Dangal. Amrish Puri, who performed in Tehelka. Abhishek Bachchan, who performed a rap song in Bluffmaster! and Bol Bachchan under the direction of his cousin, Rohan Sippy. Farhan Akhtar, who sang the songs for the movie Rock On, one song in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, and also in Dil Dhadakne Do. Hrithik Roshan, who performed in Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara. Hema Malini, who performed in the film Haath Ki Safai.

Conclusion

While Bollywood primarily relies on playback singers, there have been several instances where actors have taken on the mantle of vocalists, breaking the traditional mold. These performances add a unique touch to the films, bringing a sense of authenticity and emotional depth to the songs.