Manoj Kumar’s ‘toilet break’ advice led to THIS

Holi and Bollywood songs share an unbreakable bond. While the festival has its fair share of dedicated

Holi songs

like Rang Barse and Holi Ke Din, there are some tracks that, despite having no direct connection to the festival, have become Holi staples. Among them, one of the most celebrated and frequently played songs during Holi celebrations is Amitabh Bachchan’s

Khaike Paan Banaras Wala

from Don (1978).
Amitabh Bachchan's Iconic Performance
With Bachchan’s electrifying energy, his carefree dance moves, and those unforgettable red lips, this song has become synonymous with the joyous chaos of Holi. However, what makes it even more fascinating is the surprising story behind its making. The biggest twist? Khaike Paan Banaras Wala was never meant for Amitabh Bachchan in Don! The song was originally composed for an entirely different film—Banarasi Babu, starring Dev Anand. However, the song was eventually dropped from that film and remained unused.
When Don was being made, the film’s makers felt that the gripping thriller needed a light-hearted moment to balance its intensity. Director Chandra Barot and music composer Kalyanji-Anandji decided to repurpose the track and introduce it in the second half of the film. Bachchan’s playful performance, combined with the song’s catchy beats and Kishore Kumar’s infectious singing, turned it into an unforgettable cinematic moment.

A Friend's Honest Feedback Changed Everything
Don was a masterclass in suspense thrillers, and while director Chandra Barot held a special screening for his superstar friend Manoj Kumar, he received valuable feedback. Speaking about the success of Khaike Paan Banaras Wala, the famous ‘Non-Holi Holi Song,’ Chandra Barot, in an interview with Rediff in 2006, recalled, “I must also thank Manoj Kumar, who told me a song was needed. When he saw it, he said the film was too tight. He said it made taking a toilet break difficult because the story was so gripping! So, we included that song.”

From Discarded Tune to Holi Anthem
Despite its roots in Don, Khaike Paan Banaras Wala has organically become a Holi favorite over the years. Whether it’s the song’s vibrant energy, the desi Banarasi vibe, or the sheer fun it exudes, it perfectly complements the spirit of Holi. Today, it is as essential to Holi parties as bhang and gulal!
Bollywood has a way of turning songs into cultural phenomena, and Khaike Paan Banaras Wala is a prime example of this magic. From being a discarded song to becoming one of the most played tracks during Holi, its journey is as colorful as the festival itself!