The Pritam-KK-Emraan Hashmi combination strikes again with this immensely popular track from Jannat. In the music video, Hashmi mouths the lyrics of the song while driving and attempting to impress a group of women. Contrary to its title, however, “Zara Sa” is a big, grand declaration of love, especially with the lyrics: “Main chahun tujhko, meri jaan, bepanah // Fida hoon tujhpe, meri jaan, bepanah” (My desire for you, love, knows no limits // I’m gone on you, love, beyond all limits). From its beautiful opening instrumentation to that iconic chorus, and of course, KK’s classic series of ‘oh’s, this song is etched into the minds of an entire generation.
“Dil Ibaadat” from Tum Mile (2009)
Emraan Hashmi is a struggling artist in this love story set against the backdrop of the 2005 Mumbai floods. The melancholic opening notes of “Dil Ibaadat” (composed by Pritam and performed by KK) tug at the heartstrings and the lyrics speak of a devoted heart’s plea to be understood. KK imbues a great deal of feeling into the lines: “Jo bhi saansein main bharun, unhe tere sang bharun // Chahe jo ho raasta, use tere sang chalun (Every breath I take, I want to breathe with you // No matter my path, I want to walk with you).”
“Pee Loon” from Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai (2010)
Composed by Pritam and performed by Mohit Chauhan, “Pee Loon” is about how thirsty the protagonist is, literally and metaphorically. Cocky and moustachioed in his role as a gangster, Hashmi romances Prachi Desai in the graffitied alleyways of old Bombay, smirking at her in cafés and dancing with her on terraces. Chauhan’s vocals bring a note of playfulness and yearning to the song. The chorus is an ode to a love that elicits both eager restlessness and a sense of peace, a love whose absence feels unbearable.
