The Bollywood Film With 72 Hit Songs: When we think of Bollywood, the first thing that comes to mind—besides its colorful storytelling—is music. From soulful melodies to foot-tapping dance numbers, songs are the heartbeat of Indian cinema. But did you know there was once a film that had not just 5 or 10 songs, but a staggering 72 tracks, and all of them were hits?
Yes, we’re talking about ‘Indra Sabha’, a cinematic gem released in 1932, that holds a record which remains unbroken to this day.
A 3 Hour 31 Minute Musical Marathon
Indra Sabha wasn’t just another musical. It was a 3-hour-31-minute-long film released during the early days of sound in Indian cinema. While today’s films usually feature 4 to 6 songs, Indra Sabha stands out as a monumental achievement in film and music.
The film included:
- 15 Standard Songs
- 9 Thumris
- 4 Holi Songs
- 31 Ghazals
- 2 Chaubolas
- 5 Chhands
- 5 Other Songs
Each song was carefully integrated into the film’s narrative, making it a truly immersive musical experience for its time.
What Was Indra Sabha All About?
Set in a mythical kingdom, the film tells the tale of a kind and just king whose compassion for his people earns him fame even in the celestial realms. So much so that a beautiful apsara (celestial maiden) from Indra’s court descends to earth to test his virtues. But instead of exposing any flaws, she finds herself captivated by his nobility and ends up falling in love.
The Stars Who Lit Up the Screen
Leading the cast were Jahanara Kajjan and Master Nissar, both of whom were iconic performers of their time. Kajjan wasn’t just admired for her acting skills—she was also a celebrated singer known as the “Nightingale of Bengal.” Tragically, she passed away at the young age of 30, leaving behind a legacy of timeless performances.
A Record That Still Stands Strong
Despite the evolution of Indian cinema, no film—Bollywood or otherwise—has come close to matching the 72-song milestone set by Indra Sabha. It remains a legendary benchmark in the history of global filmmaking, especially in the world of musicals.
So the next time you hum your favorite Bollywood tune, remember Indra Sabha—the film that sang its way into history.
