sikhpride

Dev Kohli, is a great Indian poet and lyricist, who was born in Rawalpindi (Pakistan) but, ultimately made a name in composing memorable songs in Hindi films. After partition, Kohli family had moved to Dehradun, Uttar Pradesh, and by that time Dev Kohli’s love for poetry had fully blossomed. Though he had started writing poems at very early age, he did not get the exposure till Mr. Shaukat, recognized his talents, became his mentor and guide. When he moved to Mumbai in 60s, he stayed in a hotel where he happened to meet the famous duo of music Directors Shankar-Jaikishan. They gave him a break and his very first song ‘Geet Gata Hu Main’ from film ‘Lal Pathar’ became a hit, but it didn’t establish him as lyricist in the industry. The real success came to his way twenty years later with the film ‘Maine Pyar Kiya’. He came to be recognized with the songs like ‘Aate Jaate Hasate Gaate’, ‘Ja Ja Kabutar Ja Ja’, ‘Tu Chal Mai Aayi’ from this film. Kohli later found a good partnership with Rajshree Production. He penned lyrics for their two hit films, ‘Hum Aapke Hai Kaun’ and ‘Hum Sath Sath hai’. All the songs of these two movies became very popular. Some other films for which he wrote songs include ‘Anadi No.1’, ‘Biwi No. 1’, ‘Kaante’, and ‘Bazigar’. With so many hits to his credit, he has established himself as a leading lyricist. However, he does not like to do many films and remains selective, so that quality product may be given. He has been nominated as best lyricist for his songs in ‘Maine Pyar Kiya’, ‘Bazigar’ and ‘Hum Aapke hai Kaun’. There are many Punjabi song writers in the film industry but remaining in Sikhi sarup and surpassing others in popularity, is an achievement of Dev Kohli which makes him a role-model in this regard.