In the annals of Hindi cinema, certain stories exemplify the unpredictable nature of success and the complex relationships between creative giants. One such story revolves around the legendary composer S.D. Burman, filmmaker Guru Dutt, and actor Dev Anand. A song, initially deemed "weak" by Guru Dutt, would later become a timeless classic in Dev Anand's film.
The incident dates back to the early 1960s when S.D. Burman, was a well-established music director known for his memorable compositions in films like "Pyaasa" and "Kaagaz Ke Phool". Guru Dutt, a prominent actor and filmmaker, had signed Burman as the music director for his film "Baharen Phir Bhi Aayengi".
During the making of "Baharen Phir Bhi Aayengi", S.D. Burman suffered a heart attack. He requested Guru Dutt for some time to recover, but Guru Dutt, was in a hurry and replaced Burman with O.P. Nayyar. This decision hurt Burman deeply. Moreover, a song that Burman had composed for the film, sung by Mohammed Rafi, was rejected by Guru Dutt, who considered it weak.
The rejected song found its way to Dev Anand, who included it in his film "Jewel Thief" (1967). However, instead of Mohammed Rafi, the song was sung by Kishore Kumar and was picturized on Dev Anand. Titled "Yeh Dil Na Hota Bechara," the song became a major hit, surpassing the film's success and solidifying its place as a classic.
The story took a poignant turn when Guru Dutt faced personal struggles later in his life. The song he had once dismissed became a hit after his death, a success he never witnessed.
This incident highlights several aspects of the Hindi film industry. First, it illustrates the subjective nature of creative judgment. What one person considers "weak" can resonate deeply with others and achieve immense popularity. Second, it underscores the importance of relationships and support in the industry. While Guru Dutt's decision to replace Burman was driven by his circumstances, Dev Anand's support for Burman is noteworthy. Dev Anand waited for Burman to recover and record songs for his film 'Guide'.
Furthermore, the story exemplifies the enduring legacy of S.D. Burman's music. Despite facing setbacks and rejections, his compositions continue to captivate audiences. "Yeh Dil Na Hota Bechara" remains a beloved song, a testament to Burman's talent and the song's universal appeal.
