Shankar Jaikishan and Shailendra came together to work for their maiden venture, Barsaat, under the RK Films banner. Their combination was a runaway success and they never looked back. From then on, along with Hasrat Jaipuri, the foursome became the most successful group that made history in the entertainment industry. Not only were they professional associates, they became personal friends as well.
Although there were no strict rules written for SJ, Shailendra and Hasrat, the poet/lyricist had an extraordinary rapport with Shankar. They both spent endless hours working on the lyrics of songs for which the tunes were already composed. Their unique working relationship was the envy of all in the music industry.
SJ’s partnership with Shailendra created countless number of memorable songs in every genre possible. They are heard on the lips of all age music lovers at home and abroad. Their songs, “Awara hoon” the title song from Awara and “Mera jootha hai Japani” from Shree 420 are the most famous Hindi film songs that have earned international fame and name.
Shailendra wrote a total of 409 songs for SJ with a highest rate of popularity. Most of RK’s solos were written by Kaviraj as RK affectionately called him. The poet’s dream became a reality when he produced the much acclaimed Teesri Kasam. Due to unforeseen circumstances, the production took longer than expected, thus, hiking the budget considerably. This created a mental anguish for Shailendra and took a toll on his health. Sadly, the man who wrote countless number of memorable songs, wasn’t around to receive the National Award won by Teesri Kasam. The Indian Government recognized his efforts by waiving the entertainment tax for the movie.
If not for his untimely death in 1966, at a young age of forty five, Shailendra would have written many more songs. His passing left a void in SJ music that can never be filled.
Seen in the picture below are: (L to R) Mrs. Shailendra, Shailendra and Shankar. The latter is pinning a medal on the lyricist as a recognition for his outstanding work
