One of the most iconic songs in Indian cinema history, Jab Pyar Kiya To Darna Kya, remains a timeless masterpiece, not just because of its melody but also due to its extravagant production costs. The song, featured in the 1960 classic Mughal-e-Azam, was composed by Naushad, sung by Lata Mangeshkar, and starred legendary actors Prithviraj Kapoor, Dilip Kumar, and Madhubala.
A Record-Breaking Set and Budget
The song’s production involved creating a massive set at Mohan Studios in Mumbai, spanning 150 feet long, 80 feet wide, and 35 feet high. This lavish set, built to accommodate the grandeur of the song, was completed over the span of two years and cost approximately ₹1 crore at the time, which, when adjusted for inflation, amounts to around ₹55 crore today—a figure that could rival the budget of a good movie by modern standards.
Lata Mangeshkar’s Unique Recording
The song’s iconic vocals by Lata Mangeshkar were recorded under unique circumstances. Music director Naushad desired a specific echo effect for the vocals, but due to technical limitations, he chose an unconventional method: recording her voice in a bathroom. The result was a sound that not only captured the atmosphere he envisioned but also contributed to the song’s lasting charm.
This song remains unforgettable, continuing to captivate audiences even 64 years after its release, solidifying Mughal-e-Azam as a monumental piece of cinema.