It is Dilip Kumar's 101st birth anniversary. The legendary actor, who has carved a deeper place in the hearts of his fans, was part of some of the most memorable songs in the history of Indian cinema. His mannerisms and the way he carried a certain emotion to resolve through the expression of the song are exemplary. Dilip Kumar remains among the earliest method actors in Indian cinema.

From famous songs like 'Ye mera diwanapan hai' or 'Ude jab jab zulfein teri' to 'Ye desh hai veer jawanon ka', Dilip Kumar evoked a certain charm while embodying all of these myriad emotions. In his life, he was married to actress Saira Banu.

On his birth anniversary, here are four lesser-known songs by the legendary actor:

1) Apni Azadi Ko Hum

In this song invoking revolutionary spirit from the 1964 film Leader, Dilip Kumar was on top of his game as he gave a face to the underlying emotions in the song. Sung with an aching beauty by Mohammed Rafi to the music of Naushad, the song remains a fitting tribute to the idea of patriotism.

2) Ham Dard Ke Maaro Ka

A heartbreaking song that speaks of the philosophies of life as a man covered in grief expresses his innermost turmoil. Written with striking simplicity by Shailendra and sung by the evergreen Talat Mahmood, this is an underrated gem from that era that rings true even today.

3) Aye Mere Dil Kahi Aur Chal

Another philosophical reflection from the same film is where an inebriated Dilip Kumar yet again speaks of his inner demons by asking the heart to find another resort. What makes the song truly memorable is Dilip Kumar's aching portrayal, which feels as if he becomes the character of the film. It is an extraordinary feat. The song should be revisited on Dilip Kumar's birth anniversary.

4) Lagi Nahi Chute

Another of his lesser-known songs from a film(Musafir,1957) that is criminally underwatched. It was the debut of Hrishikesh Mukherjee, who later had big hits like Namak Haram, Anand, and Golmaal. The song has an eerie presence in the film, where it feels almost like a hum captured in the voice of Mukesh. Dilip Kumar's lip-sync is just so perfect it feels as if he is the one singing it live.



Read More: Dilip Kumar Special: 5 Underrated Movies Of The Veteran Actor