Happy Birthday Salim Merchant: 10 Memorable Songs of the Music Maestro

Salim Merchant turns 50 today on March 3, 2024. (Image: salimmerchant/Instagram)

One of the most admired music composers from the Hindi film industry, Salim Merchant, turned a year older today. Born on March 3, 1974, in Mumbai, Salim went to Trinity College of Music in London after graduation to enhance his piano playing skill. Be it pop music, Hindi songs or qawwali, Salim has aced it all and has delivered some chart-topping songs in his musical career.

Apart from composing and singing music, Salim has also been a part of various music reality shows as a judge, including Indian Idol Junior Season 2, Indian Idol Season 5 and Season 6, and The Voice of India. As he turns 50 today, here is a rundown of some of his unmissable songs that he has sung to date:

1. Ainvayi Ainvayi (Band Baja Baarat)

   This energetic and peppy number from the movie ‘Band Baja Baarat’ is a popular choice at weddings and celebrations. The song, written by Amitabh Bhattacharya and crooned by Salim Merchant and Sunidhi Chauhan, was a hit when it was released in 2010. Its catchy beats and vibrant music video featuring Ranveer Singh and Anushka Sharma make it a sure-shot dance number.

2. Ishq Wala Love (Student Of The Year)

   The song was well received and popular among the younger generation, particularly those who fell in love for the first time. ‘Ishq Wala Love’ from the movie ‘Student Of The Year,’ starring Sidharth Malhotra, Varun Dhawan, and Alia Bhatt, Rishi Kapoor, is a soft ballad sung by Neeti Mohan, Shekhar Ravijiani, and Salim Merchant. The beats are light, and the mush factor is high.

3. Shukran Allah (Kurbaan)

   This soulful and emotional song from the movie ‘Kurbaan’ is a beautiful blend of Sufi elements and modern music. The powerful vocals of Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghoshal and the heart-touching lyrics make it a timeless classic. Featuring Kareena Kapoor and Saif Ali Khan, this song celebrates the feeling of love in the most magical way possible.

4. Jigar Da Tukda (Ladies vs Ricky Bahl)

   Isn’t it just amazing how music composer Salim Merchant has composed or sung songs from various genres? Talking about this upbeat Bollywood song from the movie Ladies vs Ricky Bahl, this song celebrates the joy of love and playful banter between lovers. The song was a huge hit upon release and remains popular at weddings and dance parties due to its catchy beats and energetic music video featuring Ranveer Singh and Parineeti Chopra.

5. O Re Piya (Aaja Nachle)

   This slow-paced song is nothing less than a cool breeze on a hot day. Rendered by music legend Rahat Fateh Ali Khan in 2007, O Re Piya still holds a special place in our personal playlist. It showcases a beautiful fusion of qawwali and classical touches in terms of music and lyrics.

6. Aye Khuda (Paathshaala)

   Aye Khuda from the Bollywood film ‘Paathshaala’ starring Shahid Kapoor and Ayesha Takia is a very pleasant number that lifts the mood. Salim Merchant sang this track in his mellifluous voice, and the lyrics were penned down by Hanif Shaikh. The song has a soft rock tinge with soft western instruments, which makes listening very soothing and enjoyable.

7. Maula Mere Le Le Meri Jaan (Chak De India)

   Anyone who has watched the movie Chak De India knows that this beautiful composition by Salim-Sulaiman can make anyone emotional. Portraying Bollywood heartthrob Shah Rukh Khan in the lead role, this popular song embodies a feeling of love and patriotism towards the country. ‘Maula Mere Le Le Meri Jaan’ remains a favourite even years after the release of the film.

8. Mar Jaawan (Fashion)

   This song remains a memorable track from the Bollywood movie ‘Fashion,’ featuring Priyanka Chopra and Kangna Ranawat. The lyrical song sung by Shruti Pathak, Salim Merchant, continues to be appreciated for its distinct composition, and the music was composed by Salim-Sulaiman. The lyrics were penned down by lyricist Irfan Siddiqui.

9. Rab Rakha (Love Breakups Zindagi)

   Listen to the ‘Rab Rakha’ song in the soothing voice of Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghoshal from the movie Love Breakups Zindagi. Starring Zayed Khan, Tisca Chopra, Dia Mirza, and Cyrus Sahukar, among others, the lyrics of the song are penned by lyricist Javed Akhtar, while the music is given by my music duo Salim Sulaiman. The serenity in this melodious song has a direct connection to the heart, doesn’t it?

10. Khudaya Ve (Luck)

    This song is a romantic ballad that expresses the emotions of love and longing. It’s a popular choice for romantic playlists and wedding celebrations. The soulful track pictured on Imran Khan and Shruti Haasan has won the hearts of many. It has been written by Shabbir Ahmed for the Bollywood film titled Luck.

Happy Birthday, Salim Merchant!