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.
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