The tradition got a kickstart with Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Hum Aapke Hain Koun. After a slew of terse and austere Deewars, Sholays and Coolies came the trend of singalong titles. It reflected a collective nostalgia for the popular film ditties from where the names had been borrowed. However, now that these long-winded film titles have become a rule than an exception, long titles make one squirm with sheer pain. This year has had its fair share—Maine Dil Tujhko Diya, Haan Maine Bhi Pyar Kiya Hai, Na Tum Jaano Na Hum, Aap Mujhe Achche Lagne Lage. Last fortnight itself, two more films with longish titles hit the marquee: Yeh Kya Ho Raha Hai and Dil Vil Pyar Vaar. If you think that’s mild, take this: Aapko Pehle Bhi Kahin Dekha Hai, Kehta Hai Dil Baar Baar, Haan Main Prem Ki Deewani Hoon, Jeena Sirf Mere Liye. If anything, these titles display an utter lack of imagination. Can’t think of anything to attract the viewer? Jog his memory with a popular song, better still mix and match the words of two different songs. So what if the title has no relation at all with the film.
