MUMBAI: One name that even the musically illiterate would know without an iota of doubt in their minds is ‘Kishore Kumar’. During his time, the musical legend made a mark on not only Indian cinema, but also on music lovers.

Kumar is indeed the ‘Kohinoor’ of the Indian music industry, and his loss in the 80s left a void that has been rather hard to fill. Today, 4th August, would have been the singer’s 86th birthday. Unfortunately, he is not amongst us to celebrate the day. The good thing is that we can still mark the day with his beautiful voice.

We at Radioandmusic.com decided on bringing you the ‘Top 10’ evergreen songs of Kishore Kumar.

Ek Ajnabee Haseena Se: ‘Ek Ajnabee Haseena Se’ is a fun number picturised on Rajesh Khanna and Zeenat Aman. This song, from the film ‘Ajnabee’, has been composed by RD Burman and the lyrics have been written by Anand Bakshi. While you cannot really pick one Kishore Kumar favourite, this song tops our list of his evergreen numbers.

Zindagi Ek Safar Hai Suhana: ‘Zindagi Ek Safar Hai Suhana’ is one of those songs in which you cannot imagine anybody else’s voice other than Kumar’s. This ‘Andaz’ song is filled with great energy and fun, and it is picturised on Rajesh Khanna. A young Hema Malini is a treat to watch in this video.

Dil Kya Kare: The 1975 film ‘Julie’ is one of the most unforgettable movies in Indian cinema. And one song that is hummed even today from this successful movie is Kishore Kumar’s ‘Dil Kya Kare’. It is a beautifully sung song with some wonderful music by Rajesh Roshan.

Chingari Koi Bhadke: ‘Chingari Koi Bhadke’ is a perfect example of Kumar’s vocal range and versatility, as he could sing all sorts of songs with the same beauty. Thus, this heartbreak song from ‘Amar Prem’ is a memorable one.

Yeh Shaam Mastani: This song, picturised on Rajesh Khanna and Asha Parekh, is yet another ‘high on life’ kind of song; very much like its singer- Kishore Kumar. Here Kumar’s vocals bring life to this pleasant melody composed by RD Burman.

Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai: ‘Yeh Jo Mohabbat Hai’ is a heartbreak song with some beautiful lyrics by Anand Bakshi. But, what brings life to these beautiful lyrics is Kumar’s mesmerising voice. Indeed a beautiful song.

Gata Rahe Mera Dil: This song is composed by SD Burman for ‘Guide’, and has some great music and outstanding singing by Kumar. The video for this melodious track features Dev Anand and Waheeda Rehman, who look beautiful together in it.

Aate Jate Khoobsurat Aawara: Laxmikant-Pyarelal has done a great job with the track ‘Aate Jate Khoobsurat Aawara’ from the film ‘Anurodh’. But what makes this song stand out from the rest of the duo’s other compositions is Kumar’s voice. The song is yet again picturised on Rajesh Khanna and it is outstanding.

Musafir Hoon Yaaro: ‘Musafir Hoon Yaaro’ is a song from the 1972 film ‘Parichay’, which narrates the journey of a man. While it is a soul touching song, its magic would probably have not been possible without Kumar’s delightful voice. The music has been composed by RD Burman.

Chookar Mere Man Ko: ‘Chookar Mere Man Ko’ from ‘Yaarana’ manages to touch every heart. The music of this song has been composed by Rajesh Roshan and Kumar’s singing, undoubtedly makes it an evergreen number.

If we have missed your favourite Kishore Kumar number, do comment in the section below.