Bollywood's first 'pichkari', this iconic Holi song was shot before independence, and the trend started with this film.

News Topical, Digital Desk : Holi, the festival of colors, is one of the most celebrated festivals in India. It's a time of joy, music, dance, and great festivities. In the world of Bollywood, this festival has long been a staple theme, spawning numerous songs and scenes.

But did you know that Bollywood's first Holi song was released even before India gained independence? Let's take a closer look at the history of Holi in Bollywood and how it's connected to one of Indian cinema's most famous films.

Holi songs started with this song.

Long before Holi became associated with the vibrant and colorful festival of Holi in Bollywood, a black-and-white film broke new ground by incorporating a Holi song into its story. Released in 1940, the film was directed by the legendary Mehboob Khan and titled "Aurat." Aurat featured not one but two Holi songs: "Aaj Holi Khelenge Sajan Ke Sang" and "Jamuna Tat Par Holi Khelenge Shyam," both composed and sung by renowned music director and playback singer Anil Biswas.

This was a significant moment for Indian cinema, as it marked the first time Holi music became a significant part of a Bollywood film. These songs not only set the stage for subsequent Holi-themed tracks in Indian cinema, but also demonstrated the potential for music to enhance the cultural vibrancy of Indian festivals.

Song released before independence

Aurat starred Sardar Akhtar, Surendra, Yakub, Kanhaiyalal, and Arun Kumar Ahuja. Despite being released before Independence, it quickly became a significant part of Bollywood cinematic history.

Mother India was a remake of 'Aurat'

Aurat was a remarkable film in itself, but it wasn't the last time Mehboob Khan would return to this story. In 1957, the director remade Aurat as Mother India, starring Nargis, Sunil Dutt, Rajendra Kumar, and Raaj Kumar. This film was also a huge success, cementing Mehboob Khan's place among the greatest Indian filmmakers.

But Mother India was more than just a remake – it became a major milestone in the history of Indian cinema. The film was not only a commercial success but also received international acclaim. It became the first Indian film to be nominated for the prestigious Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, a tremendous achievement for the Indian film industry.

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