Some films create anticipation long before their release and continue to dominate conversations well after audiences leave the theatres. Dhurandhar is one such film. Directed by Aditya Dhar, the action drama has earned widespread acclaim for its direction, performances, technical finesse, and ensemble cast. Beyond its box-office success in India and overseas, the film has also achieved something rare—it has reintroduced forgotten faces and timeless melodies to a new generation.

Released theatrically on December 5, 2025, Dhurandhar stars Ranveer Singh, Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, Akshaye Khanna and Rakesh Bedi, among others. While the teaser had already generated excitement, it was the film’s background score and music choices that truly captured public attention after its release. Viewers soon discovered that the film did not rely on original compositions alone, but skilfully wove in several iconic retro Hindi songs—some over five decades old—giving them fresh relevance and emotional power.

Music as a Narrative Force

Music has always played a central role in Hindi cinema, but Dhurandhar elevates it beyond nostalgia. The carefully curated retro tracks are not used as mere throwbacks; instead, they intensify key moments and deepen character arcs, seamlessly blending the past with contemporary storytelling.

Here are five classic Hindi songs that made a powerful comeback through Dhurandhar:

‘Yeh Ishq Ishq Hai’ (Na To Caravan Ki Talash Hai)

The film’s most talked-about musical moment comes with Ranveer Singh’s entry, set to “Yeh Ishq Ishq Hai,” sung by Sonu Nigam. Used twice in the narrative, the song leaves a lasting impact. Originally a celebrated qawwali from the 1960 film Barsaat Ki Raat, titled “Na To Caravan Ki Talash Hai,” its reimagined use has led audiences to rediscover the timeless classic.

‘Rambha Ho Ho Ho’

As the story unfolds, “Rambha Ho Ho Ho” plays during a wedding sequence that doubles as a tense action moment. The scene shows Ranveer Singh’s character, Hamza, navigating chaos while attempting to save a dacoit’s eldest son. Sung by Usha Uthup, the song is originally from the 1981 film Armaan and adds a distinctive energy to the sequence.

‘Monica Oh My Darling’

In a high-octane chase set inside and around a nightclub, Sara Arjun’s character Yalina attempts to escape a police raid. Ranveer Singh’s Hamza comes to her rescue in a dramatic bike chase, accompanied by the iconic cabaret number “Monica Oh My Darling.” Originally featured in the 1971 film Caravan, the song amplifies the glamour and tension of the scene.

‘Hawa Hawa’

Sanjay Dutt’s commanding entry as Superintendent of Police Aslam is underscored by “Hawa Hawa.” Set against the stark visuals of a white desert, the song plays as his character confronts and eliminates drug smugglers in a dramatic introduction. The track, originally released in 1989 by Hasan Jahangir, lends a larger-than-life aura to the sequence.

A Bridge Between Eras

Through its thoughtful use of retro music, Dhurandhar has prompted audiences to revisit songs many had long forgotten, with several tracks once again finding space in modern playlists. By breathing new life into classics that are 54 to 65 years old, the film demonstrates how timeless music, when used with intent, can transcend generations—proving that old melodies still have the power to resonate loudly in contemporary cinema.