Angaraag Mahanta, popularly known as Papon, is one of the most soulful and versatile singers in India. Starting his career with his Assamese debut album Junaki Raati in 2004, Papon quickly made his mark in Bollywood and independent music with his heartfelt voice and unique blend of folk, classical, and contemporary styles.
Over the years, he has delivered songs that touch the heart, whether it’s romance, devotion, or pain. From Bollywood blockbusters to indie tracks, Papon’s music has a universal appeal, earning him a loyal fan base across India. In this article, we revisit the 15 best songs by Papon—a mix of his all-time classics and a few new additions—that highlight his incredible musical journey.
1. Moh Moh Ke Dhaage (Dum Laga Ke Haisha)
Arguably Papon’s most iconic Bollywood song, Moh Moh Ke Dhaage remains evergreen. Composed by Anu Malik and sung with Monali Thakur, the track beautifully captures the subtle threads of love. Papon’s warm, expressive voice turned it into an instant classic and one of his most memorable performances.
2. Kyon (Barfi!)
From the heartwarming movie Barfi!, this duet with Sunidhi Chauhan is full of innocence and charm. Papon’s soothing vocals perfectly complement the film’s timeless storytelling, making Kyon one of his most loved romantic songs.
3. Jiyein Kyun (Dum Maaro Dum)
This was the song that made many music lovers first sit up and notice Papon. A soulful, melancholic track composed by Pritam, Jiyein Kyun reflects the struggles of life. Even today, it stands tall as one of Papon’s most powerful ballads.
4. Banao (MTV Coke Studio)
An independent gem, Banao showcases Papon’s artistry beyond Bollywood. The song’s lyrics, along with his earthy and refreshing voice, make it a fan favorite. It’s a true example of his versatility and ability to create something fresh.
5. Tauba (Kaalakaandi)
This peppy track brought out Papon’s playful side. With its funky beats and his energetic singing, Tauba became an instant party favorite. It’s proof that Papon can handle upbeat numbers just as effortlessly as soulful tracks.
6. Sunn Le Re (Madras Cafe)
One of Papon’s most emotional songs, Sunn Le Re captures the pain of loss and longing. Composed by Shantanu Moitra, this heartfelt number fits perfectly into the gripping film Madras Cafe. Papon’s voice makes the sorrow in the lyrics almost tangible.
Read Article: Rise and Fall Show: When and Where to Watch, Contestants, Host, TRPs, Winning Prize
7. Labon Ka Karobaar (Befikre)
This is one of Papon’s most sensuous and playful songs. With music by Vishal–Shekhar, Labon Ka Karobaar celebrates love and intimacy. Papon’s smooth vocals make it a must-have on every romantic playlist.
8. Khamma Ghani (Happy Ending)
A soulful track that mixes tradition with modern music, Khamma Ghani is another standout performance. Papon’s heartfelt singing brings alive the song’s message of forgiveness and moving on.
9. Maula Sun Le Re (Madras Cafe)
Another gem from Madras Cafe, this spiritual track is a prayerful cry for strength. Papon’s devotional yet soulful rendition makes Maula Sun Le Re a song that stays with listeners long after it ends.
10. Khuda Se Mannat Hai Meri (Daawat-e-Ishq)
This melodious romantic song composed by Sajid-Wajid captures the sweetness of love and longing. Papon’s expressive singing makes it one of the highlights of Daawat-e-Ishq.
Also Read: How to Get Free Zee5 Subscription in India
11. Din Guzar Gaya (Bypass Road)
A relatively recent track, Din Guzar Gaya reflects pain and grief through its haunting tune. Papon’s voice is filled with raw emotion, reminding us of his ability to elevate even lesser-known soundtracks.
12. Jiyein Kyun (Unplugged)
The unplugged version of Jiyein Kyun strips the song down to its purest form. Without heavy instrumentation, Papon’s raw and soulful vocals shine through, leaving a deeper emotional impact.
13. Humnava (Hamari Adhuri Kahani)
One of Papon’s most loved romantic songs, Humnava tugs at the heartstrings with its soulful lyrics and Mithoon’s beautiful composition. Papon’s delivery adds the perfect emotional touch to this heartbreaking love ballad.
14. Bulleya (Sultan)
Not to be confused with the Ae Dil Hai Mushkil track, this version from Sultan has Papon’s signature touch. A sufi-inspired number, Bulleya connects spirituality with longing, and Papon’s singing elevates it to another level.
15. Jhumoor Re (Gurgaon)
A folk-inspired number from the movie Gurgaon, Jhumoor Re reflects Papon’s Assamese roots. His voice, combined with the rustic vibe of the song, celebrates India’s cultural richness and stands out in his discography.
New & Noteworthy Papon Songs
Along with these classics, Papon has continued to release independent tracks and collaborations. Some of his recent songs that fans love include:
- Tera Mera (2023) – A romantic indie release that quickly gained traction on streaming platforms.
- Barse Naina (2022) – An independent soulful ballad that shows Papon at his best.
- Humnawa (Live versions) – His live renditions continue to trend, proving how powerful his voice is on stage.
By mixing his Bollywood hits with indie projects, Papon ensures his music remains fresh and connected with fans across generations.
Conclusion
From soulful Bollywood numbers like Moh Moh Ke Dhaage to indie gems like Banao, Papon has carved out a unique identity in the Indian music industry. His songs are not just melodies — they are emotions that resonate with listeners deeply.
Whether you’re in love, heartbroken, or simply in need of music that touches the soul, Papon’s songs are timeless companions. This list of the best songs by Papon brings together the magic of his voice, his versatility, and his ability to connect with listeners in the most natural way possible.