Arjan Vailly song from Animal kept Punjabi alive in Bollywood: Bhupinder Babbal

Punjabi folk music artist Bhupinder Babbal said that his popular song Arjan Vailly from the film Animal(2023) has helped keep the Punjabi language alive in Bollywood.

“I am known for Punjabi folk music, and I tried to keep the language alive in the industry because of this song’s powerful writing, voice, and music. I will continue to do so,” Babbal told Patriot.

He described the song as a significant turning point in his career. “This song has been a game-changer. People started recognising my name more and my face after this hit. In fact, I began receiving calls and messages from the industry praising my work,” said Babbal, who won the IIFA 2024 Award for Playback Singer (Male) for the song.

When asked how he landed such a major project, Babbal admitted that it still feels like a dream come true. “I got a call from the director of the film, Sandeep Reddy Vanga, who said he wanted a song that would showcase the actor’s courage. Initially, I thought someone was joking with me,” he recalled.

“Later, I learned that a student of mine, who was part of the film, had recommended my name for this song.”

Babbal explained that the director was looking for a powerful, fresh voice that had the essence of a village. “The director explained the character’s situation, and I gave it my best. I think I nailed it,” he said.

He also shared how special it was to be part of the song featuring actor Ranbir Kapoor. “I also performed this song live with Ranbir and Bobby Deol. It felt like I was Arjan Vailly (brave) myself,” he said.

Babbal expressed his gratitude to the director for giving him the opportunity to sing the song. “He worked his magic with the track. He didn’t dilute its importance in the film, and its originality was preserved.”

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Babbal added that every home should have an Arjan Vailly figure. “Someone who ensures the security of the home, fights for others, and excels in sports and other activities,” he said, noting that his song has garnered over 258 million views on YouTube.

Recalling a moment when he was praised by film celebrities for his work, Babbal said, “Anil Kapoor loved my work the most. We were in Hyderabad for the movie promotion, and I met Anil Kapoor ji there. He praised my voice and work.”

The singer is thrilled that the song has given him global recognition. “I’ve seen youth making reels on Instagram with this song. Even elderly people and women listen to it while working out at the gym,” he said, noting that he has also sung many songs in Punjab, including Saint Soldier and Mundeyo Aagee Oye.

Speaking about his connection with Delhi, Babbal said, “I love visiting the city for music-related work, I enjoy meeting people, and the food here.”