From Pritam and Pedro to 3 Idiots: How Rajkumar Hirani’s Stories Always Find Their Soul Through Music

For decades, Rajkumar Hirani’s storytelling has been celebrated for its warmth, humour and unforgettable characters. But there’s another element that quietly binds his cinematic universe together, music. Whether it’s a song that captures the spirit of friendship, an anthem that becomes a part of everyday conversations, or a melody that deepens an emotional moment, music in Rajkumar Hirani’s world is rarely just background. It becomes a character in itself.

With Pritam and Pedro carrying that legacy forward, here’s a look at how Rajkumar Hirani’s films and now his upcoming series have created memorable musical moments that continue to resonate with audiences.

Pritam and Pedro Pritam and Pedro – A Melody Before the Premiere
Even before its premiere on JioHotstar, Pritam and Pedro had already found its first fanbase through their music. The recently released tracks have been garnering love across social media, with audiences appreciating their warmth, simplicity and hummable quality. Adding to the excitement is the song Kabhi Kissi Se Maafi Maang Lo beautifully sung by Shreya Ghoshal, whose soulful vocals perfectly complement the emotional world of the series. Mona Singh plays the role of a singer, making music an integral part of her character and the narrative. Much like Rajkumar Hirani’s previous stories, where songs have helped audiences connect more deeply with characters and emotions, Pritam and Pedro appear to continue that tradition, using music as both a storytelling device and an emotional anchor.

3 Idiots – Songs that understood every phase of life
Few Hindi films have produced songs as universally relatable as 3 Idiots. The Song All Izz Well became much more than a chartbuster, it evolved into a phrase people still use to reassure themselves during stressful moments. Whether before exams, interviews or life’s everyday challenges, the song remains a cultural comfort. Then came Give Me Some Sunshine, which perfectly captured the aspirations, frustrations and dreams of countless students. Years later, it continues to resonate because it speaks to emotions that never really change. Rajkumar Hirani didn’t just use music to entertain; he used it to give voice to an entire generation.

Sanju – When music became life lessons
One of the film’s most touching moments from Sanju is Sanjay Dutt’s relationship with his father, Sunil Dutt. Instead of using music merely as nostalgia, Sanju turns it into a metaphor for life itself. Sunil Dutt (Paresh Rawal) conveys values of balance, discipline and emotional understanding through musical references. It’s a gentle reminder that sometimes the most profound lessons are taught not through lectures, but through music shared between a father and son.

PK – Finding innocence through melody
PK is one of the most celebrated films that explored questions about faith, identity and humanity, and its music reflected that same innocence. Songs like Love Is A Waste of Time and Bhagwan Hai Kahan Re Tu weren’t simply situational tracks, they helped audiences understand PK’s childlike curiosity and emotional journey. Once again, Rajkumar Hirani used music to convey the characters beliefs and curiosity rather than distract from it.

Dunki – Music that carried the ache of home
With Dunki, music became the emotional bridge between dreams and displacement. The Song Nikle The Kabhi Hum Ghar Se beautifully captured the longing, sacrifice and hope of those leaving their homeland in search of a better future. Rather than merely advancing the narrative, the soundtrack amplified the emotional weight of migration, making audiences feel the bittersweet pull of home.

Rajkumar Hirani’s stories have always found a lasting place in audiences’ hearts, with music playing an integral role in that journey. Pritam and Pedro, releasing on 3rd July on JioHotstar, already striking the right chord ahead of its launch, it looks set to continue that timeless tradition.