Meet the Balhara Brothers: Haryana's Musical Powerhouses Behind Bollywood's Biggest Hits
The Rise of Alpha and Its Musical Architects
The much-anticipated film Alpha, part of Yash Raj Films' spy universe and featuring Alia Bhatt and Bobby Deol, premiered today, offering audiences an exhilarating soundtrack crafted by one of Bollywood's premier background score duos. The dynamic duo, Ankit and Sanchit Balhara, hailing from Haryana, have become the driving force behind the intense action and emotional depth of numerous Hindi films.
Originating from Kilohard village in Sonipat, the brothers have steadily carved out a remarkable niche for themselves, composing scores for blockbuster films such as Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat, War, Pathaan, Gangubai Kathiawadi, and now Alpha. Their journey from rural Haryana to the epicenter of Bollywood has established them as highly sought-after composers in the industry.
A Defining Moment with Bajirao Mastani
Their career-defining moment arrived in 2015 when renowned filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali entrusted them with the background score for Bajirao Mastani. The grand orchestral pieces became essential to the film's narrative, earning them widespread acclaim and the prestigious IIFA Award. This pivotal success opened doors to major Bollywood projects, and the duo has maintained an impressive trajectory since then. Their contribution to Gangubai Kathiawadi even garnered them the Filmfare Award for Best Background Score, solidifying their status as experts in cinematic music.
Contributing to Major Bollywood Franchises
The Balhara brothers continue to lend their talents to large-scale productions, with Alpha currently in theaters. They are also working on the background score for War 2, directed by Ayan Mukerji. Additionally, they are composing music for Netflix's upcoming crime thriller, Mandala Murders, showcasing their adaptability across various formats.
Rooted in Haryana's Cultural Heritage
Music has always been integral to the Balhara family's identity. Ankit and Sanchit are the sons of the legendary Haryanvi singer and actor Bhal Singh Balhara, a prominent figure in Haryana's cultural scene. His songs, especially from classics like Chandrawal, remain popular even today. Their mother, Mukta Chaudhary, has also made her mark, being recognized as Haryana's Best Athlete five times.
Staying Connected to Their Roots
Despite their success in Mumbai, the brothers have maintained a strong connection to their roots. They recently celebrated the release of their father's new music video, Yo Mhara Haryana, describing it as 'a heartfelt tribute to Haryana—its values, pride, culture, people, wit, and musical spirit.' This reflects the family's ongoing commitment to honoring the cultural heritage of their home state.
Acknowledging Collaborators
The Balhara brothers have also gained respect for recognizing the musicians who contribute to their compositions. Sanchit recently honored the talented flautist Kiran Vinkar, who played the memorable flute segments in Malaal. In a social media tribute, he emphasized how many instrumentalists remain unrecognized despite their significant contributions to cinema's most poignant musical moments. This gesture highlights the collaborative nature of their work and their respect for fellow artists.
Global Ambassadors of Haryana's Music
In an industry where songs often steal the spotlight, Ankit and Sanchit Balhara have distinguished themselves by mastering the art of background scoring. Their journey—from a small village in Sonipat to composing for some of India's leading filmmakers—illustrates a tale of talent, dedication, and a commitment to their roots.
As their music resonates with audiences in theaters and streaming platforms worldwide, the brothers stand as proud ambassadors of Haryana's creative spirit, demonstrating that impactful stories are remembered not only for their visuals but also for their sound.