There was a time when in films I mean both in Tamil and Hindi there would be a lot of situational songs. It would not be there just for the sake of entertainment but also for reflecting the mood and aiding the narration by the writer and director. There were songs which are either philosophical, preachy, or just for expressing happiness. 

Most of the duets are invariably expressions of love, care, and happiness. Similarly, there would be songs to mark a fall or rise in the protagonist’s life. At times a man’s or woman’s life would be shown changing either from rags to riches or vice versa. 

Nevertheless, even yesteryear duets if not all, many of them will be pleasant and meaningful or philosophical and somber. 

Popular Tamil weekly ‘Kumudam’ while writing the review for the film ‘Kaththiruntha Kangal’ mentioned specifically about the popular number ‘Valarntha kalai maranthu vittal’ as a song that is so poignant and specific which cannot be used in any other sequence or story. 

Some songs will be memorable not only because of the tune or lyrics but also because of the alliteration of words. Example ‘Aththan ennaththan’, ‘Paarthen sirithen’, ‘Aththikkai kai’, and ‘Vaan nila nila alla’ to name a few. There are many. These songs are not just for fun, all the lines will have a meaning admirably. 

There would be happiness as well as the pathos of a specific number sung by a male and female depending on the situation. ‘Unnai kandu naan’ (Kalyana Parisu), ‘Andru umai pennallo’ (Parthal Pasi Theerum), ‘Naan pesa ninappathellam’ (Palum Pazhamum) just quote a few. 

Nevertheless, in Hindi films, this aspect used to be very significant, and one can find several examples; ‘Dil jo na kahe saka’ (Bheegi Raat), ‘Aa ri aaja’, (Kunwara Baap), ‘Yaadon ki Baraat’ (name of the film itself), ‘Hamein tumse pyaar kitna’ (Kudrat), ‘Hamein aur jeene ki chahat’ (Agar Tum Na Hote), ‘Zindagi ek safar’ (Andaz) again are just examples. 

But the main aspect is all these songs used to be situational, and sensible with meaning. 

What is the state of film music today? 

It is wise if I don’t say anything. Today films are made for a hero and his antics; so, it is better not to speak about it. Nevertheless, I want to summarize present-day film music in one word. Pathetic.