In this guest column, Mohan Gopinath, Head ,Bollywood Business at Shemaroo Entertainment Ltd., reflects on how Bollywood classics and their timeless music continue to engage audiences and fuel today’s entertainment economy.
Nostalgia has always held a powerful place in the hearts of Indians, and nowhere is it more visible than in our collective love for Bollywood classics and their unforgettable music. These aren’t just films or songs ,they are emotional experiences, shared memories, and cultural assets that continue to shape the identity of Indian entertainment.
From Amar Akbar Anthony to Welcome, Dhamaal, Phir Hera Pheri, Dhol, Golmaal, and Bhagam Bhag, Shemaroo Entertainment has been privileged to be the custodian of one of the richest Bollywood libraries. Each title ,with its timeless music, iconic dialogues, and star power ,represents not only creative excellence but also a valuable business asset that continues to generate revenue across multiple platforms and generations.
In today’s entertainment economy, nostalgia is not just an emotion, it’s a thriving market. The re-emergence of classic soundtracks on streaming platforms, the growing demand for remastered digital versions, and the popularity of old songs in films, ads, and social media trends have turned legacy music into a multi-generational business opportunity.
Bollywood’s timeless melodies , composed by legends and sung by voices that defined eras ,are seeing a digital renaissance. Platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Instagram have given these classics new life, enabling Shemaroo and other rights-holders to reach young, mobile-first audiences. Whether it’s an old R.D. Burman number becoming a viral reel trend or a retro remix finding its way into a brand campaign, the commercial relevance of classic Bollywood music has never been stronger.
At Shemaroo Entertainment, our multiple YouTube channels,especially the Shemaroo Entertainment Channel with over 60 million subscribers,have become vital bridges between the past and the present. These platforms not only preserve cultural heritage but also unlock fresh revenue streams through ads, partnerships, and fan engagement. The fact that moments and melodies from decades-old films continue to trend online reaffirms that great storytelling and great music , never go out of style.
The business of classics also extends to theatrical and digital re-releases. From Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge still running at Maratha Mandir to the recent theatrical re-release of Jab We Met, audiences continue to celebrate the experience of watching and hearing ,these films on the big screen. The return of cult soundtracks to theatres and streaming platforms reflects both emotional connection and commercial demand.
For distributors and rights owners, this trend represents sustainable revenue diversification ,with older titles generating new monetization opportunities through theatrical runs, music streaming, OTT licensing, and social media virality.
What gives Bollywood classics their lasting appeal is authenticity , in both story and sound. These films were not driven by formulas or market-tested algorithms; they were crafted with originality, emotion, and timeless melodies. That creative sincerity, combined with unforgettable music, ensures their relevance across generations.
At Shemaroo Entertainment, we see these classics not just as nostalgic keepsakes, but as living, evolving assets , cultural treasures that continue to inspire creativity and commerce alike. Preserving and reintroducing these stories and songs to new audiences is both a privilege and a strategic responsibility.
Because in the end, the enduring success of Bollywood’s timeless films and songs reaffirms one universal truth: stories and melodies that touch the heart never grow old and in the music business, they never stop playing.