Indian albums that rocked in 2025

SOUND OF MUSIC

- Narendra Kusnur

Since it's that 'best of' time of the year, here's this columnist's attempt to shortlist Indian albums, based on personal choice.

No algorithms, views or Instagram following have been considered. Only full-length albums or EPs produced by Indian or Indian-origin musicians, released from January 1 to December 15, 2025, are included. Even though some fabulous singles were heard, there were too many releases which cluttered the market.

Let's begin with Hindi film music. The genre didn't have a great year, and among the commercial theatrical releases, only Saiyaara (multiple music directors) and Chhaava (A.R. Rahman) make it to the slot. Saiyaara has a wonderful title track, composed by Tanishk Bagchi and sung soulfully by Faheem Abdullah. Music directors Vishal Mishra, The Rish, Mithoon and Sachet-Parampara chip in with romantic and sad numbers.

Chhaava may be far from Rahman's best, but has gems in Zinda Rahe, sung by Hiral Veradia and Rahman himself, and Jaane Tu, in two versions by Arijit Singh and Jonita Gandhi. There are some energetic numbers, but lack lasting impact.