Shammi Kapoor, often referred to as the Indian Elvis Presley by fans, danced his way to success. During his long stint in Bollywood, the veteran had some of the best tracks under his belt. The actor’s real name was Shamsher Raj Kapoor. He was the son of legendary actor Prithvi Raj Kapoor.
Shammi joined the film industry as a junior artist with a monthly salary of Rs 50. He was one of the first actors to break the stereotypical image of the heroes of those times. Way ahead of his times, the Junglee star was also the founder of several Internet organisations like the ‘Internet User Community of India’ and the ‘Ethical Hackers Association’.
Shammi was married to actress Geeta Bali for nearly 10 years. After her demise, he went into depression for a brief period of time. The actor had a son and a daughter from his first marriage.
Going down memory lane, we picked up some of the all time favourite songs of Shammi Kapoor that have enthralled audiences over the years and made him one of the greatest stars ever.
“Yahoo – chahe mujhe koi junglee kahe”
(Courtesy: YouTube/TamilmovieLyrics)
Another gem from the same film got attached to Kapoor’s image thereafter. ‘Yahoo’ became a cult word and was then being considered as an extension of the actor’s rebel personality. Sung by Mohammad Rafi and written by Shailendra, this high octave, energetic, foot-tapping song is extremely popular even today.
“Baar baar dekho”
(Courtesy: YouTube/Rajsri)
Sung by the actor’s favourite singer Mohammad Rafi, this song from “China Town” (1962) is a light, jazz-oriented, pleasing song. Kapoor flirting with his onscreen lady, holding a guitar, is an image that will be remembered for years to come.
“Yeh chand sa roshan chehra”
(Credit: YouTube/Rajsri)
This signature OP Nayyar composition was sung by Mohammad Rafi in his inimitable style has lyrics by Shailendra. The song, which praises Kapoor’s leading lady Sharmila Tagore’s character, is melodious with easy musical arrangements and honey-tucked feel. It was from the 1964 film “Kashmir Ki Kali”.
“Deewana hua badal”
(Courtesy: YouTube/Rajsri)
Another beautiful rendition from the same film by OP Nayyar. Romance flapped its wings, when Mohammad Rafi went behind the mike to sing this song that is slow, free-flowing and pulls at one’s heartstrings even in this day and age.
“O Haseena”
(Courtesy: YouTube/KingOfBollywood)
Created by RD Burman and written by Majrooh Sultanpuri, this song from the 1966 classic “Teesri Manzil” is still a favourite for many. Sung by Mohammad Rafi, this cabaret is one of the most popular retro hits of all times. It exuded Kapoor’s style and his charm and was a chartbuster.
“Aaj kal tere mere pyar ke”
(Courtesy: YouTube/Madhuka Wickramarachchi)
This evergreen song has fascinated generations. From 1968’s “Brahmachari”, this Shankar-Jaikishan composition is fast-paced and highly enjoyable. Sung by Mohammad Rafi and penned by Shailendra, the track is again a testimony to Kapoor’s rebel attitude and his carefree nature. A fun song that stole hearts.
“Badan pe sitare lapete huye”
(Courtesy: YouTube/AjayYuvraj)
An almost seductive number, this song was composed by Shankar-Jaikishan for the film “Prince” in 1969. Although the film was not among the best-known works of Kapoor, the song sung by Mohammad Rafi, was a sounding success and is still famous.
