It features on every Holi playlist, blaring from speakers around festivities. But composer Pritam has revealed that Balam Pichkari from Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013) was not originally conceived as a Holi track.

“Initially, it was not going to be a Holi song,” the 54-year-old says, adding that the change happened after director Ayan Mukerji attended a Holi celebration in 2012. “(Ayan) told us, ‘We have to set this song during Holi. It’ll take the vibe to another level’,” he says.

Over a decade later, Pritam is grateful for the love the song has received. “Balam Pichkari trends at the top almost every Holi,” he says, adding, “If I knew exactly what made it cut across generations, I would probably try to recreate it every time. But honestly, it’s impossible to predict these things.”

Nowadays, he feels that there is a seeming lull in iconic festival tracks. But Pritam insists, “There is always space for a good song. Platforms may change, listening habits may evolve, but emotions don’t.”