Indian cinema and music go hand in hand. From classical melodies to modern beats, music brings our films to life. Behind this magic are legendary composers who have shaped Bollywood music for generations.

From Naushad's timeless tunes to S. D. Burman's poetic compositions, R. D. Burman's experimental sounds to A. R. Rahman's global music, each one has earned their place as the best music director in India. Their songs are more than just music. They're a part of our culture, the soundtrack of our lives.

This article celebrates the best music director in India from different eras. Because the Indian music industry is filled with creators who not only beautifully understand notes and rhythm, but also human hearts. 

So let us enjoy some of the most loved and exciting melodies from the best music director in India.

Here’s a list of India’s top legendary composers you should know, divided by eras.

The Golden Era of Classics

1) Naushad Ali

Naushad Ali is considered the best music director in India from the old Bollywood era, known for bringing Hindustani classical music into Bollywood films. Born in Lucknow in 1919, Naushad loved ragas and traditional instruments from a young age. He was one of the first composers to use full orchestras and live classical musicians in film music, setting a new standard for quality.

His work in films like "Baiju Bawra," "Mughal-e-Azam," and "Mother India" created some of the most famous songs in Indian cinema history.

Iconic Songs:

• Mohe Panghat Pe

• Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya

• Man Tarpat Hari Darshan Ko Aaj

The above timeless songs show his musical genius and earned him recognition as one of the greatest Bollywood music directors. His love for purity and tradition continues to inspire modern composers, showing us that classical depth and film music can work together beautifully.

2) S. D. Burman

S. D. Burman, fondly known as Burman Da, is celebrated as one of the best music director in India of all time, whose compositions bridged folk simplicity and cinematic sophistication. Born into the royal family of Tripura in 1906, he trained in classical music but drew deep inspiration from Bengali folk traditions and rural Indian rhythms.

His musical journey began in Calcutta, but it was in Bombay that he truly flourished. He crafted unforgettable scores for films like "Guide," "Jewel Thief," "Aradhana," and "Sujata." His ability to evoke emotion through minimalistic yet profound melodies made him a favorite among filmmakers and singers alike.

Iconic Songs:

• Tere Mere Sapne

• Jalte Hain Jiske Liye

• Roop Tera Mastana

S. D. Burman earned his place among the Indian top 10 music directors, influencing generations of composers, including his son R. D. Burman.

3) R. D. Burman

R. D. Burman, fondly known as Pancham Da, transformed the sound of Hindi cinema. Son of the legendary S. D. Burman, he carved his own path by blending Indian melodies with global genres like jazz, funk, and disco, creating a musical revolution in the 1970s and 80s. His modern sound earned him the recognition of the best music director in India of his time.

His journey began with "Teesri Manzil," and he went on to compose unforgettable scores for films like "Yaadon Ki Baaraat," "Amar Prem," "Hare Rama Hare Krishna," and "Sholay." Known for his experimental use of instruments and sound effects, R. D. Burman brought youthful energy and modernity that redefined Bollywood music.

Iconic Songs:

• Chura Liya Hai Tumne  (Yaadon Ki Baaraat, 1973)  

• Mehbooba Mehbooba (Sholay, 1975) 

• Tere Bina Zindagi Se (Aandhi, 1975) 

• Dil Lena Khel Hai Dildar Ka (Zamane Ko Dikhana Hai, 1981) 

• O Haseena Zulfonwali (Teesri Manzil, 1966) 

His genre-defying brilliance and emotional depth continue to inspire composers, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential Bollywood music directors.

4)Ilaiyaraaja

One of the best music director in India who introduces techniques like Synthesizers, allowing western classical music to blend with Tamil Folk traditions. His music compositions are mainly popular for their intricate harmonies, depth and unique musical layers, creating a benchmark in Indian cinema.

His most acclaimed films are Mouna Raagam, Sindhu Bhairavi and Nayakan that have remained milestones in Indian music history. He also collaborated with renowned Filmmakers, especially Mani Ratnam (Thalapathi), who played a crucial role in shaping both their careers. 

In fact, other great singers like S.P. Balasubrahmanyam brought his compositions to life, adding to the musical emotional impact.

Other Hit songs by Ilaiyaraaja:

• "Ilaya Nila Pozhigirathe" from Payangal Mudivathillai

• "En Iniya Pon Nilave" from Moodu Pani

• "Kanmani Anbodu Kadhalan" from Guna

• "Thendral Vanthu Theendum Pothu" from Avatharam

5) Shankar–Jaikishan

Shankar–Jaikishan were among the most influential composer duos in Indian cinema, widely recognized as the best music director in Bollywood. Their partnership began under the mentorship of Raj Kapoor, where their music became synonymous with emotional depth and cinematic grandeur.

Known for their orchestral brilliance and melodic versatility, Shankar–Jaikishan composed for over 150 films, including classics like "Barsaat (1949)," "Shree 420," "Sangam," and "Junglee." Their ability to seamlessly blend Indian classical music with Western symphonic elements set them apart as true innovators.

Iconic Songs:

• Awara Hoon

• Zindagi Ek Safar Hai Suhana

• Ehsaan Tera Hoga Mujh Par

They shaped the musical identity of Bollywood's golden era and remain among the Indian top 10 music directors of all time.

The Prolific Era with Versatility

6) Laxmikant–Pyarela

Laxmikant–Pyarelal hold a special place when it comes to the best music director in India for their incredible versatility and prolific output. Starting as assistants to Kalyanji–Anandji, they debuted with "Parasmani" (1963) and went on to compose for over 500 films. Their music ranged from classical to disco, devotional to romantic, showing remarkable adaptability to changing trends.

As Bollywood music directors, they were the most prolific and versatile duo of their time, creating music that appealed to audiences across generations.

Iconic Songs:

• My Name Is Lakhan (Ram Lakhan)

• Ek Pyar Ka Nagma Hai (Shor)

• Dafli Wale Dafli Baja

• Hansta Hua Noorani Chehra

• Sathiya Tune Kya Kiya

The Modern Era with Contemporary Sounds

7) Anu Malik

Son of composer Sardar Malik, Anu Malik began in the 80s but rose to prominence in the 90s with "Baazigar" and "Border." Known for catchy hooks and emotional ballads, he often sang his own compositions. He became a fixture among the best music directors in Bollywood, especially in the 90s and early 2000s.

Iconic Songs:

• Garam Chai Ki Pyali (Har Dil Jo Pyar Karega)

• Tumse Milke (Main Hoon Na)

• Yeh Kaali Kaali Aankhein

8) Vishal–Shekhar

Formed in the early 2000s, with Jhankaar Beats (2003), this duo quickly became the voice of modern bollywood with hits in youth-centric films. Pop, rock, and EDM influences dominate their sound, and they often collaborate with international artists like Akon and The Vamps. They're considered among the Indian top music directors of the digital age.

Iconic Songs:

• Swag Se Swagat (Tiger Zinda Hai)

• Om Shanti Om (Om Shanti Om)

9) Pritam

Starting with “Dhoom (2004)”, Pritam became a chartbuster king with hits in almost every major Bollywood film. His signature style includes romantic melodies, upbeat dance tracks, and fusion arrangements. As a bollywood music director with mass appeal and consistent success, he's dominated the 2000s and 2010s.

Iconic Songs:

• Kesariya (Brahmastra)

• Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (Ae Dil Hai Mushkil)

10) Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy

Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, undoubtedly the best music director in India, became a nationwide sensation after they composed the chartbusters of the 2001 movie Dil Chahta Hai. They are known for composing more than 50 soundtracks on five languages including Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and English. Furthermore, their official anthem for 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup Titles “Dil Ghuma ke” created hype among audiences. 

This trio brought together jazz, rock, Indian classical, and global rhythmic styles to form the heartbeat of the Bollywood musical landscape of the 2000s. This also made them stand out as the best music director in Bollywood.

Their Some other Hit Songs: 

• Kal Ho Naa Ho

• Tere Naina

• Noor E Khuda

• Zindagi Kuchh Toh Bta 

11) Amit Trivedi

He is a New-Age Melody Magician. When Amit Trivedi came on to the scene, Bollywood had a sudden blast of indie music freshness. He gained recognition for the music for the acclaimed film Aamir in 2008. However, he has another breakthrough soundtrack from the film “Dev D” which also gave him commercial success. In addition to his film work, Trivedi as the best music director in India has also worked to create television shows, music and albums. 

Some Other Hit Songs: 

• Iktara

• Love You Zindagi

• Namo Namo

• Ud-Daa Punjab

12) A. R. Rahman

Born as A. S. Dileep Kumar in Chennai, Rahman was trained in Carnatic music under Master Dhanraj and later studied Western classical at Trinity College of Music, London. After losing his father at a young age, Rahman began composing jingles to support his family.

In 1992, "Roja" marked his debut as a film composer. The soundtrack was a sensation, blending Indian classical with electronic and ambient textures. Time magazine later listed it among the top 10 soundtracks of all time.

Rahman won two Academy Awards and a Grammy for "Slumdog Millionaire." He's collaborated with international artists like Mick Jagger, U2, and Hans Zimmer, and performed at global events including the Nobel Peace Prize Concert.

Iconic Hits Across Eras

• Chaiyya Chaiyya

• Kun Faya Kun

• Roja Jaaneman

• Jai Ho (Oscar Winner) 

Conclusion

From the classical purity of Naushad to the global fusion of A. R. Rahman, the best music director in India has gifted us iconic hits that define the soul of Indian cinema. Their music goes beyond generations, languages, and borders, making music the true heartbeat of India.

These legendary composers have not only shaped Bollywood but also influenced global music. Each Indian top music director has left an indelible mark on our cultural landscape.

So, if you’re the one who is passionate about music and dreaming of creating music,  take your passion with Spardha. With us, learn dance and music through a personalised learning model that only favours growth. Visit us to explore more about us. Our dedicated team of experts is always here to help.