As M M Keeravani celebrates his birthday on July 4, Subhash K Jha lists his best Hindi songs, all of which are better than his Oscar-winning song, Naatu Naatu.
Tu Mile Dil Khile from Criminal
Mahesh Bhatt's Criminal launched Keeravani (then credited as M M Kreem) in Hindi cinema.
The 1st version of the song was sung by Chithra and Kumar Sanu.
Chithra was replaced by Alka Yagnik in the film version.
Chup Tum Raho from Iss Raat Ki Subah Nahin
Luckily, Sudhir Mishra didn't replace Chithra on Keeravani's next Hindi soundtrack.
Gali Mein Aaj Chand Nikla from Zakhm
Alka Yagnik sounds so good in the song, the music penetrates our soul.
Maa Ne Kaha from Zakhm
Mahesh Bhatt weeps each time he hears this song.
There are 2 versions, by Chithra and Keeravani, both equally poignant.
Jadu Hai Nasha Hai from Jism
Shreya Ghoshal made Bipasha Basu smoulder even more on screen.
Aa Bhi Ja Aa Bhi Ja from Sur
The most neglected of Keeravani's Hindi compositions featured in this Lucky Ali starrer.
Awarapan Banjarapan from Jism
Sayeed Quadari's lyrics are brought to life in Keeravani's music.
Phir Raat Kati from Paheli
Keeravani scored the music for Amol Palekar's directorial
Sung by Sukhwinder Singh and Sunidhi Chauhan, the only soundtrack where Keeravani got to work with Gulzar.
Pehli Nazar Mein, non film album
This 1996 album features 8 songs composed by Keeravani. The title song is sung by Keeravani and Anuradha Paudwal.
Guzre Zamane, non film album
The 1998 album features 8 tracks. This nostalgic song is sung by Keeravani.