Bollywood in Paris

By Jaya Karan On June 6th, 2016

Bollywood has had a longstanding love affair with Paris, with numerous films shot in this gorgeous city.  Our Sapphire co-founder is heading off to Paris this month, so as a temporary farewell, here’s a look at some memorable Bollywood songs from the city of love:

 

1. Ilahi (Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, 2013)

YJHD is one of India’s highest grossing films of all times. From the start, this song is all about Paris. “Ilahi” features Ranbir Kapoor going about the streets of Paris in his dream job as a videographer. I love the ‘right there’ feel of this clip, which transports me straight to Paris every time.

 

2. Badra Bahaar (Queen, 2014)

When Rani (Kangana Raunat) is ditched by her fiancé, she ends up travelling alone to her pre-booked honeymoon in Paris. This song captures her on the first day, wondering cluelessly around Paris. Check out the hilarious scenes from 1:48 onwards as Rani tries desperately to escape from view of the Eiffel Tower!

 

3. Jaane Bhi De (Iskhq in Paris, 2013)

The movie was flop and the guy is slightly annoying (who is he anyway?). However, this clip has some beautiful shots of Paris and especially of the Eiffel tower lit up at evening.

 

4. Ajooba Hai (Jeans, 1998)

The choreography is awful and the outfits even worse. This video is saved by the sweet melody of AR Rahman, and Aishwariya’s graceful dancing against the backdrop of the Eiffel tower.

  

5. Deewane ke Naam (Evening in Paris, 1967)

This classic starring Shammi Kapoor and Sharmila Tagore was a huge hit. The movie was shot almost entirely in Paris, when filming overseas first became trendy in Bollywood. The song has Shammi Kapoor stalking Sharmila around Paris (she eventually falls for his ‘charms’ of course). Worth watching for footage of Paris in the sixties!

 
And finally, here’s my “Bollywood moment in Paris” from a few years ago.  I’m sure Piya will find a way to add her own Bollywood drama whilst there…happy travels Piya!