It truly is amazing how music can make you nostalgic, become associated with delightful memories and even change your attitude towards life. Bollywood too has periodically created some wonderful melodies that have helped me through a rough patch and have gotten me through life in general. Music has a remarkable quality that can help you fix heartbreak, find new purpose in life and even give you the that pep talk you need to face the toughest challenges life can throw at ya!

So, even though the songs in my list have a significant personal meaning (help to keep me going) they might work for you as well. It’s basically a nice mix of old and new as ‘cheer me up’ songs are timeless. And wouldn’t it just be perfect if you could share your own list of desi music that works for you and makes you smile on even the most grim and awful day ever! So go on and share with us, MissMalini peeps!

1) Ye Honsla from Dor

This song literally epitomizes the attitude we should have towards life. It’s just so inspirational and it really has helped me power through some hard times. I absolutely love the lyrics of the song as it talks about unwavering courage and refusing to quit. Totally kick-ass attitude. Just what you need when life throws some Herculean challenges and you need to tell yourself that you won’t back down. Works for me when the baby is screaming and I have a work deadline.

2) Kuch Kariye from Chak De India

The message, the tone and the inspiring voice of Sukhwinder Singh all come together to make this one uplifting track. It just makes you want to get right out of bed and do something with your life. So, don’t sweat the small stuff because you’re here to make your dreams come true. Also, helps that SRK looks super hot as the hockey coach with the sexy stubble.

3) Aas Paas Hai Khuda from Anjaana Anjaani

The song always reassures me when I am low and I haven’t tried it like post a really big crisis but I am sure that it’s the kind of song that makes you want to rethink your decision to give up. Perfect for when that pile of work just doesn’t seem to get any smaller and you need someone to tell you that you are where you need to be!

4) Jaane Kyun from Dostana

I have to thank MissMalini from the bottom of my heart for reminding me that this outstanding track exists. I’ll be alright… always transports me back to the great times with friends that we so wish to relive right now! It’s just so reassuring… I mean the lyrics are all about this special someone you can count on. And Priyanka Chopra looks super hot in those little brightly colored halters, racer backs and all the pretty li’l hot pants. Super Like!

5) Prem Ki Naiyya from Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani

Let’s face it. Ranbir Kapoor can make even the worst of days seem like fun with that adorable smile and the funky dance moves in this song. It just makes you want to get out of bed and dance. I love how awesome Katrina Kaif and Ranbir look together (weren’t they seeing each other then?) And I think you’ll love it too if you believe in picture perfect romance.

6) Gazab Ka Hai Din from Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak

This has to be the ultimate fix for a bad day! It brings back so many memories of your first crush..your first love… Its basically just such a happy song… all sunshine! And don’t you just adore the Aamir Khan – Juhi Chawla chemistry in this one?  Such a classic!

7) Iktaara from Wake Up Sid

So, this was the song that inspired me to write about all the loveliest songs that make your day. I love the vocals. The song which has been sung by Kavita Seth and Amithabh Bhattacharya always gets me through a really yucky day. Its got that fresh vibe to it, like the smell of the first rain.… so you just want to get out there and celebrate life! And Ranbir and Konkona Sen Sharma make an unusual but great onscreen couple!

8) Dhadak Dhadak from Bunty Aur Babli

Ah..This is so the song for you if you want to forget all your big city worries and enjoy that feeling of living in a small, happy town where everyone is full if energy and dreams in their heart. Its got such a great foot tapping tune. It always makes me dance. And you can’t get enough of Rani’s infectious energy and Abhishek and her make a scorching onscreen pair. They should totally work together again, na?

9) My Dil Goes Mmmm… from Salaam Namaste

This is such a wonderfully romantic and feel good song. I like to listen to it whenever I want to relive the good ol’ days of first crushes and it manages to recreate the wonderful carefree days that we lived and loved as teenagers! The lyrics …you can totally relate to and Saif Ali Khan and Preity Zinta look cho chweet together. Its kinda hard to believe they were never a couple. Or were they? This one’s a sure winner!

And finally, Our newest favorite…

10)  Dildaara (Stand By Me) from

Ra.One

This one is from SRK’s magnum opus, Ra.One and the music is a lot of fun. Even though everyone thinks Chammak Challo is the bomb.. But this song..But it totally tugs at your heartstrings. Love the vocals by Shafqat Amanat Ali. And let’s face it… two people as good looking and charming as Shah Rukh Khan and Kareena Kapoor can brighten up the grumpiest day! I think this is the best Kareena has ever looked.

So, guys get your headphones on and get ready to beat the blues. Happy listening!