Mumbai, May 3: In the 1980s, Kishore Kumar was among the highest-paid singers in India. However, he agreed to sing two songs for the new actor Govinda’s low-budget film for a reduced fee. These songs became massive hits, significantly impacting both their careers.
Govinda launched his Bollywood career in 1986, with two films released in the same month: ‘Love 86’ and ‘Ilzaam.’ Both films were box office successes, propelling Govinda’s career forward. At that time, he had not yet become a star who could attract top singers for his projects. During this period, Govinda signed on for a low-budget film titled ‘Duty.’ The film’s budget was so limited that the makers could not afford a well-known actor for the villain’s role. Despite this, Govinda insisted on having Kishore Kumar sing for him, believing it would help establish his identity in the industry and benefit the film.
Kishore Kumar’s Contribution to the Low-Budget Film
Ravikant Nagaich directed ‘Duty,’ with music composed by Babla Shah. The film featured two major dance numbers. Upon learning about the songs, Govinda requested music composer Babla Shah to approach Kishore Kumar. Govinda felt that if Kishore Kumar sang for a newcomer like him, it would create a unique identity for him in the industry and also benefit a low-budget film like ‘Duty.’
Kishore Kumar was a dominant figure in the 70s and 80s, and any project he was associated with was destined for success. When Babla Shah conveyed Govinda’s wish to director Ravikant, he expressed skepticism about bringing Kishore Kumar on board for such a low-budget film, given Kumar’s high fees. However, Govinda insisted that having Kishore Kumar sing would be advantageous for the film.
How Kishore Kumar Agreed
After considerable discussion, music director Babla Shah and director Ravikant decided to consult the renowned music duo Kalyanji-Anandji. They agreed to approach Kishore Kumar for two songs at a lower fee.
Why Kishore Kumar Agreed
Kishore Kumar had collaborated with Kalyanji-Anandji on several hit films, making it difficult for him to refuse their request. Consequently, he recorded two songs for Govinda’s film ‘Duty,’ titled ‘Jis Mehfil Mein Aata Hoon’ and ‘Tum Jise Chaho.’ After the film’s release, these songs were well-received. Following these early films, Govinda became a major star in the industry, singing in numerous high-budget films, while Kishore Kumar lent his voice to many memorable songs for Govinda. Interestingly, Kalyanji-Anandji persuaded Kishore Kumar to sing for ‘Duty’ despite not being part of the film, as Babla Shah is actually Kalyanji-Anandji’s younger brother.
About the Author
Usha Shrivas
Usha Shrivas is an experienced entertainment journalist in Indian digital media, with over nine years of professional experience. She currently serves as a Senior Content Producer at Live Hindustan, part of the Hindustan Times Group. Her deep understanding of digital entertainment journalism, video content, and audience-driven storytelling has established her as a prominent figure in this field.
Before entering journalism, Usha worked in various sectors, including an NGO and Visa Facilitation Services (VFS). She pursued professional training in Hindi journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), gaining insights into news judgment, content structure, and media ethics. Usha began her journalism career at APN Channel, where she handled content writing and social media management, focusing on trend-based stories for digital audiences.
In 2017, she joined Desimartini (Hindustan Times Group) and worked in Hindi entertainment for nearly seven years, leading a team and managing video scripting, anchoring, and team management. Usha’s anchored video segments and special series gained significant recognition. Since 2024, she has been part of the entertainment team at Live Hindustan, covering box office analysis, OTT coverage, celebrity interviews, movie and web series reviews, and breaking news.
Usha holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Delhi University, a Master’s in Political Science, and a professional course in Hindi journalism from IIMC. She believes that speed and accuracy are crucial in entertainment journalism, focusing on content that not only trends but also provides reliable information to readers. By understanding audience behavior on digital platforms, she creates high-reach and high-engagement stories.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 7 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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