Is Bhojpuri music taking over Bollywood?

Not quite yet, but it's definitely knocking on the door, and this time, Bollywood can't pretend to not hear it.

How has Bollywood's treatment of Bhojpuri culture changed over the years?

For decades, Bollywood has cherry-picked Bhojpuri's quirks, accent, and bold lyrics, turning them into punchlines. Now, as the same sound is being labeled "cool" and "funky," it feels like a missed opportunity for genuine representation.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Bhojpuri Music Breaks Into Bollywood's Mainstream: A Cultural Shift

Bhojpuri Music Breaks Into Bollywood's Mainstream: A Cultural Shift

Q: What does Bhojpuri actor and singer Dinesh Lal Yadav (Nirahua) say about Bhojpuri music's influence on Bollywood?

He argues that Bhojpuri music has always charmed Bollywood listeners, citing examples like Dilip Kumar's 'Ganga Jamuna' and Salman Khan's 'Maine Pyar Kiya'.

18 Oct

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Summary

Bhojpuri music gaining prominence in Bollywood
Tracks like 'Panwadi' and 'Aayi Nai' showcasing Bhojpuri influence
Debate over whether it's genuine inclusion or just a trend

Bhojpuri Music Breaks Into Bollywood's Mainstream: A Cultural Shift

As of October 2025, Bhojpuri music, which has long been an unsung hero in Bollywood, is now slowly but surely making its way into the mainstream. Tracks like 'Panwadi' from 'Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari' and 'Aayi Nai' from 'Stree 2', both featuring Bhojpuri superstars Khesari Lal Yadav and Pawan Singh, mark a significant shift in the industry's approach.

These are not just parody songs or throwaway hooks, but full-fledged commercial tracks that seamlessly integrate Bhojpuri elements into the melody. This newfound interest in the regional sound has sparked a debate: is it genuine inclusion or simply a trend that Bollywood is cashing in on?

Bhojpuri actor and singer Dinesh Lal Yadav (Nirahua) argues that Bhojpuri music has always had a charm that has captivated Bollywood listeners, citing examples like Dilip Kumar's 'Ganga Jamuna' and Salman Khan's 'Maine Pyar Kiya'. However, others like actor Rani Chatterjee believe that for true representation, Bollywood should feature full Bhojpuri songs, not just a few verses here and there.