When Sonu spoke about his song ‘Bijuriya’

The cult classic track ‘Bijuriya’ continues to electrify audiences even years after its release. Originally featured in Sonu Nigam’s 1999 album ‘Mausam’, the song was composed by Ravi Pawar and written by Ajay Jhingran, quickly becoming a crowd favourite and a defining number in the singer’s career.As the new reprised version hits the top trends today, it’s worth revisiting Nigam’s reflections on the song’s enduring popularity. Speaking to Hindustan Times on its 25th anniversary, the Padma Shri awardee said, “It has been a part of my life since 1999 and I perform it at 99.9% of my shows. Just two days ago in Phuket, the crowd went crazy. Its energy is unparalleled.”

Story behind the smash hit ‘Bijuriya’

The creation of ‘Bijuriya’ itself was spontaneous. At Ravi Pawar’s home, Sonu and lyricist Ajay Jhingran were brainstorming when Sonu suggested fun words like bijuriya, dagariya, gujariya, sawariya, a refreshing break from the popular “jalwa” songs of the era. That playful moment gave birth to a track that would stay timeless.To enrich the sound, acclaimed musicians like percussionist Sivamani, saxophonist Shyam Raj, and guitarist Rupert Fernandes were brought on board. Speaking about its choreography, Sonu fondly remembered Saroj Khan. “I told her to choreograph for me as if it were Govinda. She understood my eagerness to dance, and today people still expect that step every time I perform,” he recalled.

Bijuriya returns in a new avatar

Cut to today, the makers of ‘Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari’ have revived Bijuriya in a fresh, peppy version titled Bijuria. Retaining Nigam’s vocals alongside Asees Kaur and composed by Tanishk Bagchi, the track features Varun Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor. Their chemistry has been winning hearts, as they star opposite Sanya Malhotra. One thing remains clear, the nostalgia of Sonu’s Bijuriya, combined with this new-age twist, ensures the magic lives on for another generation.