The song “Sandese Aate Hain” from JP Dutta’s war film Border is remembered as one of the most emotional and powerful patriotic songs in Indian cinema. Even decades after its release, the nine-minute track continues to bring tears to listeners and is often played on Independence Day, Republic Day and during tributes to soldiers.
What many people do not know is that the song almost did not make it into the film.
A Song That Was First Rejected
When composer Anu Malik first shared the tune with lyricist Javed Akhtar, the response was not encouraging. Anu Malik felt that the early version of the song did not have strong poetry. The first draft was nearly 11 pages long, but Anu Malik felt it lacked the emotional depth needed for a war film.
At that point, the song was almost dropped.
It was Javed Akhtar who believed in the tune and reminded Anu Malik of its potential during the making of Border. He felt that the melody carried deep emotion and could become something special if written the right way.
Inspiration from a Real War Hero
The song was inspired by a deeply personal story from director JP Dutta’s family. JP Dutta’s brother had fought in the Battle of Longewala during the 1971 Indo-Pak war — one of the most important battles in Indian military history.
During the war, soldiers stayed away from their families for months, often not knowing if they would survive. Letters from home were their only emotional connection. These letters, or “sandese”, carried love, hope and strength.
JP Dutta wanted a song that captured that feeling — the pain of separation, the longing for family and the courage of soldiers standing at the border.
Bringing the Emotion to Life
Javed Akhtar wrote the lyrics from the heart, focusing on the emotional world of a soldier rather than battlefield action. The song talks about mothers waiting for their sons, wives waiting for their husbands and families praying for their safe return.
The lyrics touched every Indian who has known the pain of separation from loved ones.
Singers Sonu Nigam and Roop Kumar Rathod gave life to the song with their soulful voices, making it even more emotional and powerful.
A National Award-Winning Song
When Border was released in 1997, “Sandese Aate Hain” became the film’s most loved song. It stood out not because of loud patriotism, but because of its quiet, emotional strength.
The song earned Javed Akhtar his second National Film Award for Best Lyrics, proving that meaningful writing can leave a lasting impact.
Over the years, the song has become more than just a movie track. It has become a symbol of respect for Indian soldiers and their families.
A Song That Lives On
Even today, “Sandese Aate Hain” is played at army events, memorials and national celebrations. It continues to remind people of the sacrifices made by soldiers who protect the country while staying far away from their loved ones.
The song’s power lies in its honesty. It does not glorify war. Instead, it shows the human cost of duty and the emotional strength of those who serve.
What started as a tune that was once rejected went on to become one of India’s most unforgettable patriotic songs.
And in every letter, every “sandesa” sent from home, the song still lives on.
