f ABBA sang, "Money, money, money� must be funny� in the rich man�s world�" in praise of money, Bollywood too has revealed its admiration for the stuff, through Hindi film songs. More than 40 years ago, Kishore Kumar appeals to Madhubala to return his Paanch rupaiya baraah aana, underlining the importance of money. The side-splitting entertainer, Chalti ka naam Gaadi, was just one of the many movies which extolled the virtues of money. Even today, the money motif in Hindi film songs strikes a chord in the hearts of audiences.

From Salman Khan crooning Samajh naa mujhko aisa waisa, mere batue mein hain paisa to Karishma Kapoor in Judwaa or Shah Rukh Khan�s Chand taare routine in Yes Boss, the message that goes out is loud and clear. "Money is the most important aspect in one�s life and that has been showcased for a long time. Movies show what the audience wants," says Grace Nemching, lecturer of sociology at Delhi�s Jesus and Mary College. Ramanujam Sridhar, chief executive officer, Integrated Brand Comm, agrees. "People watch movies to escape from real life for some time and such songs help," he says.... more