The trend of using popular Hindi songs as movie titles is not something new but has been observed more frequently in recent times. movie titles such as Zara Hatke Zara Bachke, derived from the song Yeh Hai Bombay Meri Jaan by Mohammad Rafi, Jaane Jaan taken from the song of the same name, by Kishore Kumar, Monica O My Darling taken from Piya Tu Ab Toh Aaja sung by Asha Bhosle are examples of this phenomenon. We speak to industry insiders to gain insight into whether choosing a familiar title helps attract attention and if it translates into success
Trade expert Girish Johar also agrees with the benefits that come with using a familiar title. “If the story lends itself to the title, then makers can consider this because there will be advantages. I don’t see a disadvantage- It’s easily recognizable, it gives the film a brand value, it’s easily marketed, and it cuts across the audiences in a very relatable manner. Backfire tab karega jab wo film se connect nahi karega. Otherwise, it’s a fantastic idea. It did help films like Monica O My Darling or Zara Hatke Zara Bachke. The background score (which is also the same song) adds to the overall effect it creates. Filmmakers try to encash on the relatability and popularity factor,” he shares.
Filmmaker Vasan Bala, who directed the film Monica O My Darling says, “Because the foundation is a song, the sequencing of words have an inherent rhythm which gives out a vibe…gives out the idea about film’s story with minimum words. The additional nostalgia value adds to the connect.
