20 Melodious Songs by Rajesh Roshan

Among the list of legendary composers within Bollywood music, Rajesh Roshan stands out with an undeniable gleam of unparalleled melody.

The younger son of the veteran music director, Roshan Lal Nagrath, Rajesh began his forays into music at the young age of 19.

He was given his big break by Mehmood in Kunwara Baap (1974). That kicked off a sparkling career, glistening with timeless tracks.

Rajesh was one of the most sought-after music composers in the 1970s and 1980s.

From the mid-1990s, he primarily created songs for his older brother Rakesh Roshan’s films.

At the turn of the century, the combination of Rakesh, Rajesh, and Hrithik Roshan became a winning formula.

Rajesh is perhaps one of the few composers to have worked with singers ranging from Mohammad Rafi to Shreya Ghoshal.

Paying tribute to the maestro, DESIblitz presents 20 melodious songs by Rajesh Roshan.

My Heart is Beating – Julie (1975)

Following his first musical outing in Kunwara Baap, Rajesh Roshan proved his talent in the soundtrack of Julie.

Starring Lakshmi as the titular character, the film was adorned with beautiful songs that stand the test of time.

The highlight in the soundtrack is ‘My Heart is Beating’, by Preeti Sagar.

This song shows a scintillating Julie singing in a romantic mood.

‘My Heart is Beating’ was one of the first Bollywood songs to be sung entirely in English onscreen.

This suggests Rajesh’s willingness to try new things and provide firsts in the music industry.

For Julie, Rajesh rightfully won his first Filmfare Award for ‘Best Music Director’ in 1976.

‘My Heart is Beating’ definitely played a part in this milestone.

Koi Roko Na – Priyatama (1977)

This great number, sung by Kishore Kumar, shows a cool Vicky (Rakesh Roshan) strumming on his guitar.

It was one of the first collaborations between Rakesh and his brother Rajesh.

This song signified the powerful material this combination would provide in the years to come.

A comment on YouTube from 2019 reads: “Whether it is 1977 or 2019, this song is fresh even 42 years later.

“Even if we are no longer here, such a song will remain immortal.”

This highlights Rajesh’s ability to create youthful, everlasting music.

It is also a key showcase of the dazzling partnership between Kishore Kumar and Rajesh, who were a force to be reckoned with in the 1970s and 1980s.

Another fan confirms this idea by saying: “Rajesh Roshan always kept special songs for Kishore Da.”

Chal Kahin Door – Doosara Aadmi (1977)

From Ramesh Talwar’s Doosara Aadmi, this composition is a trio between Mohammad Rafi, Lata Mangeshkar, and Kishore Kumar.

It features Shashi Sehgal (Shashi Kapoor), Nisha (Raakhee), and Karan ‘Kannu’ Saxena (Rishi Kapoor).

Shot in serene locations, ‘Chal Kahin Door’ is a Rajesh Roshan masterpiece and is a testament to love and romance.

In the Netflix series, The Roshans (2025), Ranbir Kapoor recollects:

“Every night, while I was growing up, my father used to listen to only one song. That was ‘Chal Kahin Door’.”

Karan Johar adds: “The characters played by Raakhee Ji and Rishi Ji, and their dilemmas, have been explained so beautifully in this song.”

‘Chal Kahin Door’ clearly left an imprint on many hearts, all thanks to Rajesh.

Tu Pee Aur Jee – Des Pardes (1978)

The legendary actor and filmmaker, Dev Anand, remains popular for the wonderful music in his films.

For his film, Des Pardes, he chose to work with Rajesh for the first time.

At the time, Rajesh was still relatively new to the industry and working with Dev Sahab gave a boost to his credentials.

Kishore Kumar’s ‘Tu Pee Aur Jee’ is a great number, and it shows Veer Sahni (Dev Sahab) having fun as he works in a pub.

The song has a catchy beat to it and shows that, though Rajesh was still young, he deserves a place in the legion of great artists.

In 2023, Rajesh revealed that the number marked the first time stereophonic sound was used in Bollywood.

This instinct proved to work wonders, and as a result, Des Pardes is still remembered for its soundtrack.

Highlighting their bond, the composer added: “[Dev Sahab] would open the door half and say, ‘Hi Rajesh!’ It was a lovely sight.”

Uthe Sabke Kadam – Baaton Baaton Mein (1979)

In ‘Uthe Sabke Kadam’, Rajesh creates a track filled with fun, frolic, and warmth.

This charming number, from Baaton Baaton Mein, presents a gorgeous Nancy Pereira (Tina Munim) singing with her family.

It also includes Tony Braganza (Amol Palekar) as he twirls Nancy around while dancing with her.

A nostalgic fan says: “I still remember, I was ten. Me and my father peacefully enjoying Sunday while listening to this song.

“This song still hits different.”

‘Uthe Sabe Kadam’ is believed to be adapted from ‘Polly Wolly Doodle‘ from The Littlest Rebel (1935).

Nevertheless, Rajesh’s composition is breezy, evergreen, and joyful.

For that, it should be celebrated as one of his finest works.

Mere Paas Aao – Mr Natwarlal (1979)

Mr Natwarlal stars Amitabh Bachchan as the titular character and Rekha as Shanno.

Although Amitabh and Rekha were already a popular onscreen couple, this film stands out for more than one reason.

‘Mere Paas Aao’ signifies Amitabh’s debut in playback singing.

The track is a cheerful song where Natwarlal tells a story about a lion to a group of children, as Shanno gleefully watches.

Amitabh’s gentle voice, along with Rajesh’s sensitive melody, makes for a number that stays with listeners for ages.

Rajesh could have easily continued to use Kishore Kumar for Amitabh’s voice.

But allowing the megastar to sing this song himself adds a touch of sanctity and charm.

From this stepping stone, Amitabh continued to enthral viewers with his voice in songs from Lawaaris (1981) and Silsila (1981).

Ek Raasta Hai Zindagi – Kaala Paathar (1979)

This song, from Yash Chopra’s Kaala Patthar, is a lilting duet between Lata Mangeshkar and Kishore Kumar.

It primarily focuses on a happy-go-lucky Ravi Malhotra (Shashi Kapoor) riding on his motorbike.

The song emboldens the adventures of life and the necessity for an optimistic attitude.

‘Ek Raasta Hai Zindagi’ is a tribute to positivity and courage, which shine with fervour in Kaala Patthar.

Sahir Ludhianvi’s lyrics also score on a high level.

Even as the film moves forward into a dark story, the message of this song is embedded in the minds of the audience.

Without it, Kaala Patthar would not be the classic it is today.

Jo Soche Jo Chaahe – Do Aur Do Paanch (1980)

‘Jo Soche Jo Chaahe’ is a famous rap number from the multifaceted genius of Kishore Kumar.

The song shows Vijay (Amitabh Bachchan) taunting an irritated Lakshman (Shashi Kapoor).

Meanwhile, Vijay also dances with Shalu (Hema Malini) and Anju Sharma (Parveen Babi).

This racy track is a winner. Although the film itself did not do too well, the song was a massive hit.

Kishore Da nails the demanding pace of the rap. Talking about this, Rajesh states:

“When I sang the song for Kishore Da, he said he won’t be able to do it as he can’t sing it without breathing in one take.

“I said, ‘At least try’. So he did, he enjoyed it, and was surprised by himself.”

Another version of the song, sung by Rajesh himself, also exists in the film. However, Kishore Da’s rendition is truly unforgettable.

Tere Jaisa Yaar Kahaan – Yaarana (1981)

‘Tere Jaisa Yaar Kahaan’ is an anthem celebrating friendship and togetherness.

Rendered magnificently by Kishore Kumar, the song shows Rajesh Roshan at his finest.

Onscreen, Kishan (Amitabh Bachchan) performs vibrantly in an auditorium.

Towards the end of the song, his eyes numb, as if emulating the reactions of the audience when listening to the song.

Rajesh’s nephew, Hrithik Roshan, frequently sings this song onstage, showing the endurance and popularity of it.

‘Tere Jaisa Yaar Kahaan’ is also heard briefly in Sanju (2018) during the climax.

All this information underlines the evergreen melody that Rajesh expertly creates.

Angrezi Mein Kehte Hain – Khud–Daar (1982)

‘Angrezi Mein Kehte Hain’ is a delightful duet between Lata Mangeshkar and Kishore Kumar.

In the song, Govind Srivastava (Amitabh Bachchan) and Mary (Parveen Babi) profess their love for one another.

They repeat the phrase, ‘I love you’ in different languages, underscoring the power of romance.

Kishore Da’s baritone juxtaposes beautifully with Lata Ji’s softness, creating a song that is still hummed.

And at the top of it all is Rajesh, who ascertains his position firmly as a top composer.

In The Roshans, Asha Bhosle comments: “Kishore Da always used to say, ‘Whenever Rajesh’s songs come up, I enjoy myself a lot’.”

That enjoyment is evident in ‘Angrezi Mein Kehte Hain’, which is for all to hear.

Dushman Na Kare – Aakhir Kyon (1985)

In this soulful duet between Lata Mangeshkar and Amit Kumar, Rajesh Roshan presents a unique ballad.

The star of the screen for this song is Nisha Suri (Smita Patil). Then, a confident Aloknath (Rajesh Khanna) strides in.

‘Dushman Na Kare’ is a song that has a cult following.

In a 2020 interview, Amit says: “They only gave me one verse, but that verse is something that stays in the mind.

“I will make it a point to sing this song onstage.”

In the 1980s, Rajesh was known for his collaborations with Kishore Kumar.

However, he proves that with the right material, he can create magic with any singer.

Soone Shaam Savere – Khel (1992)

Continuing with the hit collaborations of Rajesh Roshan and Amit Kumar, we come to this composition from Rakesh Roshan’s Khel.

‘Soone Shaam Savere’ shows a wheelchair user, Arun (Anil Kapoor), singing majestically.

Meanwhile, Seema (Madhuri Dixit) and Tara Singh (Sonu Walia) surround him.

Unfortunately, as a movie, Khel was a box office flop, but this song won hearts and found a place on many lips.

A fan declares: “Rajesh Roshan composed it very well, based on Carlos Santana’s famous guitar tune.”

In the aforementioned interview, Amit says: “Rajesh Roshan gave me some wonderful songs. He was always after me.”

Talking about his bond with his brother Rakesh, Rajesh explains:

“Rakesh Ji and I didn’t need to convince each other. We understood each other instinctively.

“We weathered tough times together, only to build a lasting legacy.”

Yeh Bandhan Toh – Karan Arjun (1995)

This anthem of Karan Arjun is an ode to relationships and family.

In ‘Yeh Bandhan Toh’, Karan Singh (Salman Khan), Arjun Singh (Shah Rukh Khan), and their mother, Durga Singh (Raakhee) celebrate their undying bond.

The song appears throughout the film, through moments of happiness, pain, and tragedy.

Karan Arjun is one of Bollywood’s most loved mother-son dramas, decorated by Rajesh’s glorious compositions.

Rajesh delves into the influences behind the film’s soundtrack:

“I was deeply involved in the scripting stage. I would sit with Rakesh Roshan, Anwar Khan, and the scriptwriters, listening to their discussions.

“The story of Karan Arjun settled in my heart, and I experienced every emotion, laughing and crying alongside the characters.”

“This immersion inspired me to create songs that seamlessly aligned with the narrative.”

‘Yeh Bandhan Toh’ is undoubtedly the jewel that adorns Karan Arjun.

Ghar Se Nikalte Hain – Papa Kahte Hain (1996)

Taking place on a beach, this song encapsulates the romance between Rohit Dixit (Jugal Hansraj) and Sweety Anand (Mayuri Kango).

Sung by Udit Narayan, ‘Ghar Se Nikalte Hain’ showcases the mellifluousness of violins and other string instruments.

The music of Papa Kahte Hain was a chart-busting success, and it became one of the highest-selling soundtracks of 1996.

In the 1990s, people alleged that Rajesh only gave his best music to his brother Rakesh Roshan’s films.

However, Rajesh proves all these naysayers wrong with Papa Kahte Hain.

In a time when composers such as Nadeem-Shravan, Anu Malik, and AR Rahman were ruling the roost, Rajesh effortlessly adapted to changing times.

‘Ghar Se Nikalte Hain is inarguably the film’s best song, which continues to be played the world over.

Ek Pal Ka Jeena – Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai (2000)

2000 was a monumental year both for the Roshan family and for Bollywood.

With Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai, the nation was given its new superstar in the shape of Hrithik Roshan.

People saw not only a wonderful actor, but also a talented dancer.

Despite having been in the industry for decades, Rajesh skilfully created an upbeat dance number in ‘Ek Pal Ka Jeena’.

Sung by Lucky Ali, the song presents Hrithik as Raj Chopra, performing infectious steps that have been replicated by many.

The trio of director Rakesh, composer Rajesh, and actor Hrithik was a golden formula.

For ‘Ek Pal Ka Jeena,’ as well as his other compositions in the film, Rajesh won his second Filmfare ‘Best Music Director’ award in 2001.

O Soniye – Kya Kehna (2000)

Kya Kehna is a film that broke boundaries for Bollywood in its depiction of pregnancy outside of marriage.

In the film, Priya Bakshi (Preity G Zinta) falls pregnant by Rahul Modi (Saif Ali Khan) and is abandoned by him.

Her friend, Ajay Sharma (Chandrachur Singh), stands by her and supports Priya and her family through gossiping tongues and ostracisation by the community.

‘O Soniye’ happens near the end of the film, when both Ajay and Rahul declare their love for Priya.

The beautiful song is a trio of Kumar Sanu, Alka Yagnik, and Sonu Nigam.

It is fun, honest, and sincere. Rajesh’s beats once again show the greatness of the composer.

This film holds a special place for Preity, who has counted this among her favourites. Its brave storyline and memorable music are shimmering facets of its success.

Title Song – Koi… Mil Gaya (2003)

Sung by Udit Narayan and KS Chitra, the title song of Koi… Mil Gaya is a lovely duet underscoring new relationships.

The song features Rohit Mehra (Hrithik Roshan) and Nisha Malhotra (Preity G Zinta) dancing happily.

Rohit is mentally challenged, while Nisha is a kind-hearted woman who likes Rohit for his clean heart and innocence.

Rajesh’s fun and sweet composition helps the film become a loved classic that many viewers continue to celebrate.

Hrithik often regards Koi…Mil Gaya as his favourite from his own films.

The title song makes a wonderful contribution to the love the movie amasses from the audience.

A fan declares: “This kind of masterpiece will never come again!”

Truly, this song is a standout in Rajesh’s career.

Koi Tumsa Nahin – Krrish (2006)

In Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghoshal’s charming duet, Krishna Mehra (Hrithik Roshan) and Priya (Priyanka Chopra Jonas) sing about their affection.

Krrish marked Bollywood’s first superhero film.

However, unlike Superman or Batman, as Krrish belongs to Indian cinema, he has to sing and dance.

Rajesh Roshan fills this requirement beautifully. ‘Koi Tumsa Nahin’ is gorgeous and sublime.

Filmed uniquely and tenderly, the song suggests that even superheroes need the human touch of love and romance.

The beauty of Krrish is that it does not stray from the core Indian values that Bollywood music presents.

In that lies the song’s victory, which makes Krrish a milestone for cinema.

Zindagi Do Pal Ki – Kites (2010)

From Anurag Basu’s Kites, ‘Zindagi Do Pal Ki’ is a romantic song composed by Rajesh and sung by KK.

Onscreen, Jay Ray (Hrithik Roshan) and Linda (Barbara Mori) fall in love and swoon over each other.

The song has an unforgettable rhythm and a soothing tempo, speaking to Rajesh’s incandescent sense of melody.

In an interview, Rajesh admitted that he wanted the music of Kites to pay homage to Kishore Kumar.

KK does a magnificent job in emulating the legendary singer, while also bringing his own velvety tone to Rajesh’s music.

Kites may have been a box office disappointment, but ‘Zindagi Do Pal Ki’ is an instantly likeable track.

Rajesh opines: “Change has to come. It has been coming over the years, but that doesn’t mean that we are losing the soul in our Indian music.”

That soul is as visible in this film as a pair of kites soaring happily in the sky.

Kaabil Hoon – Kaabil (2017)

In the song, Rohan Bhatnagar (Hrithik Roshan) proposes to Supriya Sharma (Yami Gautam Dhar), and they get married.

The song is bright and buoyant. By this time, Rajesh had been a composer for over 40 years.

However, he creates a breathtaking, modern composition.

Interestingly, Rajesh initially sought Arijit Singh for the male vocals, but the singer had date issues. Rajesh commented:

“I found Jubin Nautiyal at the Radio Mirchi music awards, and I thought, ‘That’s my guy’.

“It’s all about trying something new.”

That newness reflects deeply in ‘Kaabil Hoon’ – a confident song glimmering with hope.

For over five decades, Rajesh Roshan has been a firm staple in the dynamic world of Indian film music.

His ability to adapt to changing times, as well as being faithful to his roots, makes him one of the most talented composers in Bollywood history.

Rajesh’s work across generations comprises timeless melodies, evergreen renditions, and charismatic compositions.

His glistening legacy will continue for all time.

Whether you’re a classic music lover or an aficionado from Gen Z, Rajesh Roshan has something for you!