Song: 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.
The song “Aaha Badla Zamana, Wah Wah Badla Zamana” is a light-hearted and playful commentary on the changing times, particularly the shift in currency systems. The singer expresses amusement and nostalgia as they compare the old and new coins, highlighting the charm of the new while reminiscing about the past. The lyrics are filled with humor and wit, making the song both entertaining and reflective of societal changes. The recurring refrain emphasizes the theme of change, while the playful tone keeps the mood upbeat and cheerful.
For deeper insight into the song, review the detailed analysis of the lyrics, composition and singing.
~ Balwant S. Wadhwani