An Item Song in Bollywood refers to a musical number that features a star performer, often separate from the main plot of the film.
These songs are typically upbeat, dance-heavy, and visually extravagant, designed to be catchy and entertaining. Their main purpose is to enhance the commercial appeal of the movie by drawing in audiences, especially in mass-market films.
The performer in an Item Song in Bollywood, often called an item girl (though there are male item performers as well), is typically not involved in the main storyline and may appear just for the song.
These songs are generally included to boost the film’s promotional campaign, increase its music sales, and cater to audiences who enjoy glamorous, high-energy performances. Item songs often feature bold costumes, elaborate choreography, and sensuous lyrics.
Some famous Item Song in Bollywood include:
- Munni Badnaam Hui (Dabangg – 2010) featuring Malaika Arora: “Munni Badnaam Hui” is a famous Bollywood item song from the 2010 movie Dabangg, directed by Abhinav Kashyap and starring Salman Khan and Sonakshi Sinha. The song became a massive hit and played a significant role in the film’s success.
- Sheila Ki Jawani (Tees Maar Khan – 2010) featuring Katrina Kaif: “Sheila Ki Jawani” is another iconic Item Song in Bollywood from the 2010 movie Tees Maar Khan, directed by Farah Khan. The song was a massive hit and became a defining track in the careers of both Katrina Kaif and the film’s music directors, Vishal-Shekhar.
- Chikni Chameli (Agneepath – 2012) featuring Katrina Kaif: Chikni Chameli” is one of the most famous Item Song in Bollywood from the 2012 movie Agneepath, a remake of the 1990 film of the same name. The song gained immense popularity for its high-energy beats and Katrina Kaif’s electrifying dance performance. It became a cultural phenomenon upon release.
- Fevicol Se (Dabangg 2 – 2012) featuring Kareena Kapoor: “Fevicol Se” is a hugely popular item song from the 2012 movie Dabangg 2, the sequel to the successful Dabangg (2010). The song features Kareena Kapoor in the lead and became an instant hit due to its catchy lyrics, upbeat music, and energetic choreography. It’s known for its mass appeal, with a blend of rustic charm and modern Bollywood glitz.
Though popular, item songs have often been critiqued for their objectification of women and the reinforcement of certain stereotypes, though the culture surrounding them has evolved over time.
