Bollywood’s most expensive song

By Editor in Chief On Oct 13, 2024

One of the most iconic films in Bollywood history, Mughal-e-Azam, released in 1970, remains unmatched in its dialogues, songs, and scenes even today. This historic drama featured Dilip Kumar, Prithvi Raj Kapoor, Madhubala, Durga Khote and Nigar Sultana in lead roles. It was the most expensive film ever made 64 years ago. One of its most famous songs, Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya continues to be a masterpiece among fans, holding some fascinating stories behind its creation.

The entire song was filmed in Mohan studios. Known for its impressive scale, the set featured 150 feet in length, 80 feet in breadth, and 35 feet in height. Well, it took two years to build the entire set and cost over Rs 1 crore, more than the entire budget of any Hindi film at that time. If Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya was made today, its production would have cost approximately Rs 55 crore.

The music composer of this song was extremely particular about its making. He even got it rewritten multiple times before finalizing the actual one. Lyricist Shakeel Badayuni edited it about 105 times until composer Naushad approved it.

Also, it was said that Naushad wanted an echo effect in the song. However, in those days, there were no such sound effects. But, his creative mind found the solution. He made Lata Mangeshkar sing in the bathroom studio.

With all the hard work and efforts by the cast and crew, Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya turned out to be a blockbuster and continues to remain a classic in Hindi cinema.