Here is a playlist stocked with songs guaranteed to get you excited for your impending travels while you pack.

“Jai Ho” - A.R. Rahman
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Slumdog Millionaire definitely put India on the Hollywood map when it was released in 2008. Not only did the film do phenomenally in both box offices and at award shows, the soundtrack’s lead song “Jai Ho” garnered a great amount of accolades, including an Oscar for Best Original Song and a Grammy for Best Written Song for a Motion Picture, Television, or Other Visual Media. Translating to “You Are My Destiny,” this Hindi tune composed by the renowned Indian composer A.R. Rahman brings the drama with suspenseful breaks and resounding vocals.

“Beware of the Boys (Mundian To Bach Ke)” - Panjabi MC featuring Jay-Z
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In 2002, British-Indian artist Panjabi MC brought together a bhangra banger and a hip hop honcho. The result? A hit party track guaranteed to have you wondering why you never had more bhangra music on your iTunes in the first place. Historically, bhangra dances evolved from a folk dance 11th century Punjabi farmers would perform to celebrate the impending harvest season, with the moves mirroring their farming movements. You, on the other hand, can celebrate your upcoming trip to India!

“Kehna Hi Kya” - Chitra
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The 1995 megahit movie Bombay had multiple stand out songs, so choosing just one proved quite the task. We definitely recommend watching the film before your trip in order to equip yourself with an important aspect of Indian society and culture: the intersection of religion, politics, and social hierarchy. The noted A.R. Rahman composed this track also, which speaks volumes to the composer’s talented touch. If there ever were a music Midas touch, this man has certainly got it.

“Kaliyon Ka Chaman” - UMI 10 featuring Meghna Naidu
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You probably recognize the hypnotic female voice on the hook on this track. That makes sense, seeing as this song has made its rounds through major broadcast from Dehli to New York City and back. In 1981, Lata Mangeshkar, an Indian artist, sang the original version, which was featured in Bollywood film Jyoti. Then, in 2000, UMI 10 and Meghna Naidu revitalized the original version for a younger generation. Two years later, Truth Hurts and Rakim came out with “Addictive,” but failed to clear the rights to the sampling. Nine years and one $500 million lawsuit later, listeners still can’t help dancing to this hit ditty.

“Chanda Re” - Hamsika Iyer
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Also known as “The Moon Song,” this record appeared in the 1997 film Sapnay. Another soundtrack gem, this lovely song slows this playlist’s pace with heartfelt serenades and delicate melodies. If you’ve got the jitters about traveling to India for the first time, then take a few breaths and definitely put on this track. The amount of musical layers heard will remind you of the rich cultures that you are soon to experience in a country as diverse as its musical selections.

Posted in: Culture, Points of Interest
Features: Historical, Live Music, Local Perspective, Romantic