intro to bollywood

Okay, you're in Toronto. You're surrounded by Bollywood right now. I'm in Berlin. I am not. To allow you to appreciate what you are able to experience, I've decided to introduce you to some great songs.

Jaane Kyun - Dostana
All you need to know: This movie is about two men pretending to be gay to get American Green Cards. It's hilarious. And this song is my ringtone.

Love Mera Hit Hit - Billu Barber
All you need to know: This movie wasn't that good. But the soundtrack was amazing. Shah Rukh Khan (King Khan) basically plays himself - a superstar. And all of the songs feature ridiculous videos.

Nach Baliye - Bunty aur Babli
All you need to know: I know every word to this song. I could do it at karaoke without subtitles.

Bum Bum Bole - Taara Zameen Par
All you need to know: I disliked this movie. But... look at that hip movement... just look at it... it's worth the wait... and a full screen view. Pay extreme attention between 2:30 and 3:00. Seriously.

Dard E Disco - Om Shanti Om
All you need to know: This movie was amaaaazing. The soundtrack is fabulous, and this isn't even the greatest song (although it's damn good). BUT, it shows that the men in Bollywood are expected to be as hot as the women. Do you have to do some laundry? Use Shah Rukh's abs. He's 42 here.

Dastaan-E-Om Shanti Om - Om Shanti Om
All you need to know: This is one of my all-time favourite songs. It's just haunting and beautiful. Arjan Rampal is artificially aged here. Normally, he's sex on a stick.

Mauja Hi Mauja - Jab We Met
All you need to know:This movie is a quintessential sappy love story. And it's GREAT! I have danced around my apartment many a time to this song.

Jhoom - Jhoom Barabar Jhoom
All you need to know: This movie is fun. It requires a complete suspension of belief. And in return, you are rewarded with greatness and songs that make you want to dance in a train station. BEFORE than wannabe Bollywood movie Slumdog whatever.

Mere Haath Mein - Fanaa
All you need to know: This song is heartbreakingly beautiful. And the movie is amazing. It honestly has everything you need in a film.

Chaiyya Chaiyya - Dil Se

All you need to know: Yes, it's Shah Rukh again. This is the most traditional of the songs on the list (if you've made it this far, you'll know that). If you've seen Inside Man, you've heard this song. Now see the video!