Song Title: Aaha Badla Zamana Waah Waah Badla Zamana
Singer: Mohammad Rafi
Film: Miss Mary (1957)
Lyrics: Rajendra Krishan
Music: S.D. Burman
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Ah, the times have changed, wow, the times have changed
Six new coins equal one old anna
Ah, the times have changed, wow, the times have changed
Six new coins equal one old anna
Ah, the times have changed, wow, the times have changed
Earlier, sixteen paise made a chavanni
Now, twelve paise make a dovanni
Earlier, sixteen paise made a chavanni
Now, twelve paise make a dovanni
The era of annas and pais has ended
The times have changed, wow, the times have changed
Six new coins equal one old anna
Ah, the times have changed, wow, the times have changed
Small, small new coins, so very dear
Small, small new coins, so very dear.
Round, tiny little ones, like stars in the eyes
Small, small new coins, so very dear
Round, tiny little ones, like stars in the eyes
With a hundred rupees, fill your treasure
The times have changed, wow, the times have changed
Six new coins equal one old anna
Ah, the times have changed, wow, the times have changed
Listen, oh father, may your children stay happy
Even a beggar asks for two new coins
Listen, oh father, may your children stay happy
Even a beggar asks for two new coins
If you don’t give two, take one old coin
The times have changed, wow, the times have changed
Six new coins equal one old anna
Ah, the times have changed, wow, the times have changed.
Note: Hindi readers should refer to the original lyrics, not the translated version.
“Aaha Badla Zamana, Wah Wah Badla Zamana” is a light-hearted and insightful commentary on evolving societal norms, especially India’s currency transition. This Mohammad Rafi classic playfully compares old and new coinage, expressing both amusement and a touch of nostalgia. Its witty lyrics and cheerful tone make it an entertaining yet reflective piece on adapting to change. The recurring refrain highlights this universal theme, cementing its place as a memorable Bollywood song.
For deeper insight into the song, review the detailed analysis of the lyrics, composition and singing.
~ Balwant S. Wadhwani