Singer Sukhwinder Singh recently share insights from his remarkable musical journey. The legendary vocalist reflected on the collaborations that shaped his career, including working with Subhash Ghai and A.R. Rahman, and lending his voice to films featuring Shah Rukh Khan. He also fondly remembered working with lyricists Gulzar and the late Anand Bakshi, whose words left a lasting mark on Hindi film music.
Working with Subhash Ghai
Talking about his experience with Subhash Ghai, Singh recalled contributing to films like Taal, Kisna, and even composing music for Black & White starring Anil Kapoor. He shared a particularly charming story about the creation of the iconic track “Ramta Jogi.”
He explained that the song came about after the film was completed. Subhash Ghai, who often affectionately called him “Ramta,” once invited him for dinner. Singh said, “AR Rahman heard him call me that 4-5 times and asked what it meant. I told him it means ‘a freakout person’—someone who cares deeply about love, someone who gives their heart entirely to their partner.”
How “Ramta Jogi” Came to Life
Sukhwinder added that he explained to Rahman that the love depicted in the song was divine—a bond between God and the devotee. “I told him, ‘Ramta’s real name was Rehmat, who was in love with God. Now he’s called Rehmat, which means God’s blessing.’”
Rahman loved the idea and asked Singh to bring that feeling into the song. Singh recorded “Ramta Jogi”, and Rahman sent the track to lyricist Anand Bakshi—even Subhash Ghai didn’t know about it at the time. When Ghai heard it, he was immediately impressed. Singh praised Rahman, saying, “He captured the best thing I was singing naturally, without me even realizing it.”
The song was eventually included in Taal, perfectly matching Anil Kapoor’s character. Ghai told Singh that while the film’s prints were already ready for release, he insisted the track stay in the film because he knew it would work.