Happy birthday Shahryar: His most popular songs

We loved his songs in the Rekha-starrer Umrao Jaan. But not many would know his name. On his birthday, here are some of the most memorable songs by poet-lyricist Shahryar.

Thursday marks the 80th birth anniversary of poet-lyricist Shahryar. Born as Akhlaq Mohammad Khan in 1936, he went on to become as one of the most sought-after Urdu poets of his times.

Shahryar is best remembered for his songs from the Rekha starrer Umrao Jaan. (YouTube Grab)

Shahryar was honoured with the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1987 for Khwab Ka Dar Band Hai. In 2008, he won the Jnanpith award. He is best known in popular culture as the lyricist of Rekha-starrer Umrao Jaan. HT brings to you a playlist of some of his popular numbers:

1. Justajoo Jiski Thi (Bazaar)
Film: Umrao Jaan (1981)
Singer: Asha Bhosle

Read: Umrao Jaan poet Shahryar passes away

2. Seene Mein Jalan
Film: Gaman (1978)
Singer: Suresh Wadekar

Read: Ten worst remakes of Bollywood

3. Dil Cheez Kya Hai
Film: Umrao Jaan
Singer: Asha Bhosle

4. Jab Bhi Milti Hai Mujhe Ajnabi Lagti Kyu Hai
Film: Umrao Jaan
Singer: Asha Bhosle

Read: The man behind Umrao Jaan and Kotwara | Muzaffar Ali

5. Ye Kya Jagah Hai Dosto
Film: Umrao Jaan
Singer: Asha Bhosle