What Is the Story Behind the First ‘Parineeta’ Song Vidya Balan Heard?

Mumbai, Aug 13 (NationPress) Actress Vidya Balan, whose debut film ‘Parineeta’ is set for a special re-release, has revealed the title of the very first song she listened to from the film's album.

While filming a music video with the late director Pradeep Sarkar, he invited her to hear a track he and his team had just recorded. This was the first song from the movie that Vidya experienced.

Reflecting on the moment, she stated, “There’s something about Piyu Bole that captures my heart. It’s so easily hummable, exudes an old-world charm, and is incredibly romantic. The way it was filmed adds to its timeless quality, making it relatable even for today’s audience.”

She went on to share, “In fact, many young people have expressed their love for that song, which speaks volumes about its timeless essence. The first song I encountered that was recorded for Parineeta was ‘Raat Hamari Toh’. While shooting with Dada in Kolkata, he instructed me to check the car for a CD containing a freshly recorded song. I listened to it in the car and couldn’t help but cry. It’s such a hauntingly beautiful and powerful piece that evokes deep emotions. I adore every single track from Parineeta.”

Composed by Shantanu Moitra with lyrics by Swanand Kirkire, the music of Parineeta has truly stood the test of time.

Shantanu Moitra expressed, “‘Parineeta’ is a fragment of my soul. The music emerged from genuine emotions, with melodies that resonate deeply, enriched by words that touch the heart. I was amazed by how Chitra ji, Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal, and Sunidhi Chauhan infused each note with such sincerity, and how Rekhaji brought grace to ‘Kaisi Paheli Zindgani’. Collaborating with Swanand was magical; his lyrics elevated the music to new heights.”

He continued, “At the core of it all was Pradeep Sarkar, who intricately blended music, narrative, and visuals into a cohesive masterpiece. I am thankful to Vinod, whose vision made this journey possible, inspiring every creative decision. Hearing this remastered soundtrack now, vibrant and alive on the big screen, feels like reconnecting with an old friend in a fresh light; the essence remains, but the colors are brighter.”

Lyricist Swanand Kirkire noted, “‘Parineeta’ was a dream come true, where poetry and melody harmonized perfectly. Each song emerged from profound emotions, from the gentle confession of Piyu Bole to the unbridled joy of Kasto Mazza to the playful mystery of Kaisi Paheli Zindgani. Shantanu’s music granted my words wings, while the voices of Shreya, Sonu, and Sunidhi infused them with soul.”

“Then came Vidya, Saif, and Rekha ji, who brought those songs to life on screen, transforming them into timeless classics. A heartfelt thank you to Vinod for granting us the freedom to write poetically and the confidence to express ourselves. Two decades later, experiencing these remastered songs feels like unveiling an old letter that still gives me chills,” he added.

This special re-release not only honors two decades of Parineeta’s legacy but also celebrates 20 years of Vidya Balan’s exceptional journey in Indian cinema and 50 years of Vinod Chopra Films.

Vinod Chopra Films is the first Indian production house to restore its entire film library in 8K resolution, with soundtracks remastered in 5.1 surround sound, an intricate process that took over four years. The film has been restored by Prasad Film Labs and is scheduled for a re-release in theaters on August 29, 2025.