Chaiyya Chaiyya, Kun Faaya Kun: 5 staples of birthday boy AR Rahman that are a must-have in your playlist

He is known by many different names- Music maestro, Mozart of Madras, Isaipuyal among many others. The man in question is none other than the Oscar-winning music composer and singer AR Rahman. The musical genius turned 52 as he is celebrating his birthday on January 6. His contributions to Indian cinema as well as the international film scene is incomparable. However, as Indians, there are certain songs of the maestro that are really close to our hearts. So on his special day, here are five staple songs of the music composer that are a must-have in your playlist. 

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Chaiyya Chaiyya

Of course, anyone who was born in the 90s is well versed with this song. Most of us have grooved to this classic from Shah Rukh Khan and Manisha Koirala starrer 'Dil Se'. With energetic beats combined with Sukhvinder Singh's magical voice, made this track an instant hit. Of course, the song is performed at the top of an actual running train is an added novelty. 

Oh Humdum

AR Rahman worked his magic once again with this peppy introduction song from the movie 'Saathiya'. Going for a rather modern sound considering the time it came out, this track was a breath of fresh air for many youngsters and became an anthem of sorts. The video of Vivek Oberoi cruising along the streets of Mumbai is seared into everyone's brain thanks to this great number. 

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Kun Faaya Kun

Rahman proves his versatility as a composer as he can compose both catchy numbers as well as those which stir your very soul. This one comes in the latter category. Arguably one of the best songs from Ranbir Kapoor's 'Rockstar', it has a Sufi vibe to it that is immediately soothing to the ears and the mind. Plus Rahman has sung portions of the song himself in tandem with Mohit Sharma, making it a track that will become legendary in the coming years.

Tum Saath Ho

'Tum Saath Ho' is a staple for those suffering from heartbreak or turmoil, for Rahman has given the perfect track for those feelings to be expressed. It is a beautiful number with western classical influences which has been crooned by Alka Yagnik and Arijit Singh. This combination with Irshad Kamil's poetic lyrics makes it a mournful masterpiece. 

Omana Penne

For all Tamil cinemagoers, this one is a no-brainer. Even though the Hindi version is sadly really watered down, everyone should listen to the original, for understandable lyrics or not, this track is heavenly. In what can best be described as dreamy and poetic, the music, the vocals and lyrics are a true piece of art- making it one of the many hit songs from the album of 'Vinaithaandi Varuvaaya'. Of course, this was remade in Hindi as 'Ek Deewana Tha', in which the lyrics, unfortunately, played spoilsport.