Akshay Kumar continues to generate positive accolades for his performance Airlift as a self-absorbed businessman who transforms into a rescuer of thousands of Indians trapped in Kuwait in 1990 during the Iraqi invasion. Airlift is one more in a series of films that leverages Akshay's versatility and ability to bring authenticity to his roles.
While Akshay Kumar has performed in hundreds of songs throughout his career, the following five songs from recent films not only highlight his ability to connect audiences with his characters but offer memorable scenes and stories within the framework of great melodies.
1. "Sapna Jahan"
English Translation: "Where Dreams Are"
Film: Brothers
Release Date: 14 August 2015
Director: Karan Malhotra
Music by: Ajay-Atul | Lyrics by: Amitabh Bhattacharya
Sung by: Sonu Nigam, Neeti Mohan
Description: The love story of David Fernandes (Akshay Kumar) and Jenny (Jacqueline Fernandez).
Why I Love This Song: David is leading a very isolated, lonely life until Jenny reaches out to him. While he is drawn to her, he is uncertain about pursuing her. Sensing his hesitancy she gently pursues him, eventually bringing a world of light and beauty into his dark, solitary life. As the two become a couple, David breaks free of his burdens, becoming a strong and confident husband and father. This is particularly important as they deal with the challenges of their young daughter's illness.
2. "Teri Meri Kahaani"
English Translation: "Our Story"
Film: Gabbar is Back
Release Date: 1 May 2015
Director: Krish
Music by: Chirantan Bhatt | Lyrics by: Manoj Yadav
Sung by: Arijit Singh, Palak Muchhal
Description: The love story of Aditya Rajput Singh (Akshay Kumar) and Sunaina (Kareena Kapoor Khan).
Why I Love This Song: From the start, Aditya and Sunaina's relationship is playful and unique. They don't follow the standard norms of behavior which makes them perfect for each other. As they marry, set up their home and prepare for the arrival of their first child, they continue to celebrate the love they've found in each other. The song is a bright, boisterous power ballad and, when offered in retrospect, establishes an important back story for Aditya.
3. "Tu Hi Toh Hai"
English Translation: "You Are"
Film: Holiday: A Soldier is Never Off Duty
Release Date: 6 June 2014
Director: A. R. Murugadoss
Music by: Pritam | Lyrics by: Irshad Kamil
Sung by: Benny Dayal
Description: When Indian Army Captain Virat Bakshi (Akshay Kumar) discovers the girl he thought was old fashioned is actually quite modern, he decides to pursue Saiba Thapar (Sonakshi Sinha) on her own turf.
Why I Love This Song: Once Virat sets his mind on Saiba, he has no qualms about getting her attention any way he can. Whether riding a segway or dancing on the court, he publicly shows his interest in Saiba who expresses frustration about his attention. Despite her annoyance with him, he isn't dissuaded and that is what makes this song particularly entertaining. Virat doesn't give up and he is willing to wait until she gives in - and while he is waiting, he might as well bust a move.
4. "Har Kisi Ko"
Film: Boss
Release Date: 16 October 2013
Director: Anthony D'Souza
Music by: Kalyanji–Anandji, re-mixed by Chirantan Bhatt
Sung by: Arijit Singh, Neeti Mohan
Choreography: Ahmed Khan
Description: Set on a small ranch complete with five white horses, this song is performed over the end titles and features Akshay Kumar and Sonakshi Sinha in a love duet.
Why I Love This Song: The song is an update of the original song performed by Feroz Khan and Sridevi in the 1986 film Janbaaz. Fortunately for those who are new to Bollywood, the song was updated for modern audiences. Initially picturized on Shiv Pandit and Aditi Rao Hydari in Boss, it is the standalone version at the end of the film that is particularly memorable. Shot in warm, natural hues of pure white, brown turmeric, ruby red and black, this power ballad puts the couple in the perfect setting for a perfect romance.
5. "Chakna Chakna"
Film: Namastey London
Release Date: 23 March 2007
Director: Vipul Amrutlal Shah
Written and Sung by: Himesh Reshammiya
Description: At a London nightclub with Jasmeet "Jazz" Malhotra (Katrina Kaif) and her British friends, Arjun Singh (Akshay Kumar) tells her his intentions through song.
Why I Love This Song: This is Akshay Kumar at his coolest. As Arjun, he begins professing his love by embracing the microphone as a stand-in for his beloved. When he moves around the room, he demonstrates his style and patience. The mix of western and eastern lyrics and dance styles adds to the power of this slow, cool dance. As he wins over everyone in the nightclub with his simple but direct Punjabi style, he demonstrates there is more to Arjun than Jazz realizes.
The following playlist features videos of each of these songs as well as "Dil Cheez Tujhe Dedi" from Airlift.
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