Mumbai, March 14: The history of Hindi cinema features many lyricists who have immortalized films with their unique and rich creations. Among these talented writers, Verma Malik stands out for his ability to capture the essence of life and emotions in his words. March 15 marks the death anniversary of this remarkable lyricist, whose songs remain timeless.
Verma Malik’s songs continue to resonate with audiences, particularly the iconic track “Ek Tara Bole Tum Tum…” from the film “Yaadgar,” which became a turning point in his life. Despite writing several hit songs early in his career, he struggled to find consistent work. However, a pivotal offer from Manoj Kumar changed his fortune and established him in the film industry.
Born on April 13, 1925, in Ferozepur, Punjab, Verma Malik grew up amidst the fervor of the independence movement. He penned and performed patriotic songs and gained recognition as a devotional singer, often starting events with a bhajan.
After the partition in 1947, as he settled in India, his life gradually found stability. In 1954, he received his first significant opportunity in the film “Dost,” directed by Kuldeep Saigal. The film featured seven songs, and Verma was entrusted with writing one that reflected life philosophy and friendship. His composition, “Aaye Bhi Akela, Jaye Bhi Akela, Do Din Ki Zindagi Hai, Do Din Ka Mela,” sung by Talat Mahmood, became a massive hit. Yet, he still did not receive a major break. In a period of despair, he decided to sustain himself by singing bhajans.
As fate would have it, his big break came with the film “Yaadgar,” released in 1970, produced and directed by S. Ram Sharma, with Manoj Kumar as the lead actor. During a meeting, Manoj Kumar recognized Verma’s talent and offered him the chance to write all the songs for the film. The songs became immensely popular, solidifying Verma Malik’s identity in the industry. “Yaadgar” not only marked a turning point in his career but also became a memorable milestone.
From that moment on, Verma Malik never looked back. In the same year, his song “Sabse Bada Nadaan Wahi Hai Jo Samjhe Nadaan Mujhe” from the film “Pehchaan” made history. This song won the Filmfare Award for Best Lyricist for Verma Malik, Best Singer for Mukesh, and Best Music for Shankar-Jaikishan.
Verma Malik mastered the art of writing patriotic songs, bhajans, and film lyrics. He wrote songs in both Hindi and Punjabi, including tracks for Dara Singh’s film “Nanak Naam Jahaz Hai” in 1969. He collaborated with renowned composers like Laxmikant-Pyarelal, Shankar-Jaikishan, Kalyanji-Anandji, and Ravi.
Some of his memorable songs include “Sun Sun Sun O Gulabi Kali” from “Sawan Bhadon,” “Do Bechare Bina Sahara” from “Victoria No. 203,” and “Haftay, Mahine, Barson Nahi, Sadiyon Se Hai Ye Purane Tere Mere Yaarane Ho” from “Naagin.”
Verma Malik’s writing was distinctive and innovative. He contributed lyrics to films like “Patthar Aur Payal,” “Waris,” and “Kaun Kitne Pani Mein.” He also created songs for “Aaj Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai” and “Mahangai Maar Gayi.” Verma Malik passed away on March 15, 2009, leaving behind immortal songs that continue to remind us of life’s celebrations, just as he had written: “Aaye Bhi Akela, Gaye Bhi Akela.”
Arpit Soni has had a passion for journalism since the beginning. Now he has turned this hobby into his profession. Arpit, who is a resident of Udaipur, enjoys editing and writing news related to journalism. He has worked as a Senior Content Producer in several important roles at Bhaskar, Patrika, Pratahkal, Punjab Kesari, and Times. Arpit completed his schooling in Udaipur and Jaipur. He has been working in the media industry for more than 10 years, and his journey is still continuing. ✍️📚
Leave a Comment