Published By: Sayan Paul

Father's Day Special: From 'Papa Kehte Hai' to 'Papa Meri Jaan' - Bollywood's Finest Tracks Dedicated to Dads

How about celebrating this Father's Day in Bollywood style?

Not all heroes wear capes. Sometimes, they come home late after a long day’s work, with tired eyes but a gentle smile. Sometimes, they silently pay your school fees, fix your broken toys, or teach you how to ride a bicycle while hiding their own fears of letting go. Yes, we’re talking about our fathers, who are always the rock-solid pillars of our lives.

And while we may not say it every day, Father's Day gives us the perfect excuse to pause, reflect, and express our gratitude. Yes, you could get him a tie, a book, or a fancy gadget. But how about something more heartfelt this year? How about a song—a melody that captures your bond, your memories, your love?

Bollywood has given us countless tracks that celebrate the special bond between a father and child. This Father’s Day, let’s revisit some of those gems.

Papa Kehte Hain – Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak

This one is a classic. When Aamir Khan swayed to “Papa kehte hain bada naam karega…”, he was expressing the dreams of every child and the hopes every father harbors. Sung by Udit Narayan, this song became an anthem for a generation. It’s that perfect bittersweet reminder of youthful ambition, fatherly pride, and the invisible thread of trust between the two.

Credit: T-Series Bollywood Classics

Interestingly, the song was reimagined in the 2024 biopic 'Srikanth', paying homage to the timelessness of its message.

Papa Mere Papa – Main Aisa Hi Hoon

This song is a lullaby wrapped in love. With Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghoshal’s soothing vocals, “Papa Mere Papa” brings to life the tender moments shared between a father and his child. Picturized on Ajay Devgn and child actor Rucha Vaidya, it captures the essence of a father who may not have much but gives everything he has—his time, his strength, his heart. It’s a tearjerker, but one that fills you with warmth.

Credit: T-Series

Pitah Se Hai Naam Tera – Boss

Here’s a song that’s both powerful and emotional. Sung soulfully by Manoj Tiwari, “Pitah Se Hai Naam Tera” is a tribute to the name, identity, and legacy a child inherits from their father. It tells the story of a boy growing up under his father’s shadow, gradually understanding the sacrifices made and the love given without conditions. A must-play if you're looking to make your dad well up with pride—and maybe a few tears.

Credit: T-Series

Papa Meri Jaan – Animal

One of the most recent and hauntingly beautiful additions to this list, “Papa Meri Jaan” from 'Animal' took the internet by storm. It’s a raw, emotionally charged piece that delves into the complexities of a father-son relationship—especially one marred by misunderstandings and longing. Sonu Nigam’s vocals pierce through the soul, while Ranbir Kapoor’s intense portrayal makes it impossible to watch without feeling deeply moved.

Credit: T-Series

Bonus Tracks Worth a Listen:

Papa Ki Pari – A sweet celebration of a father’s love for his daughter.

Papa The Great – A lesser-known but impactful track that captures paternal pride.

Dilbaro – This one hits especially hard during wedding goodbyes, as a father lets his daughter go with a heavy heart but a proud smile.

So this Father’s Day, let the music do the talking. Pick one of these tracks, send it to your dad with a heartfelt message, or maybe just play it in the background as you both sip tea together.