Lyricist Sameer Anjaan has criticised filmmaker Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar franchise for recreating classic Bollywood songs, arguing that the practice often overlooks the contribution of original writers and composers. Several recreated tracks featured in the films, including Na To Caravan Ki Talaash Hai and Ramba Ho, became popular with audiences and went viral. Speaking with Komal Nahata on the Game Changers podcast, Sameer discussed the growing trend of recreating old songs in Bollywood. He acknowledged that remakes can sometimes introduce iconic music to younger audiences, citing the recreated version of his song Dilbar as an example. However, he said the problem arises when filmmakers fail to involve the original lyricists despite their availability. Sameer objected to new lyrics being added to classic songs when they have little connection with the original meaning. He said such changes can undermine the literary value of the work.

According to him, creative works can be improved or reimagined, but they should not be altered in a manner that damages the original. The veteran lyricist also stressed the importance of obtaining permission from original writers before using their creative work. He argued that good music and writing can remain relevant for generations and rejected the idea that older lyricists cannot understand the tastes of younger audiences simply because of their age. Sameer specifically took aim at Dhurandhar for using old songs in contexts that, according to him, do not match their original essence. Referring to the franchise’s use of classic music during action and violent sequences, he said, “Films like Dhurandhar have made the situation even worse. Satyanash kar diya.” He further pointed to the trailer of Chauhan, where Jumma Chumma is reportedly used during an action sequence. Sameer also referred to the recreation of his song in a sequence involving gunfire, questioning whether such treatment respects the original song. He added that individual lyricists have limited power to prevent filmmakers from using their work in such ways.

Sameer also expressed disappointment with major Bollywood production houses associated with Aditya Chopra and Karan Johar. He recalled a time when these banners were known for supporting strong music and said he was unsure why their approach towards music had changed. The Dhurandhar franchise features Ranveer Singh in the lead role, alongside Sara Arjun, Sanjay Dutt, Akshaye Khanna and Arjun Rampal, among others. Despite several songs being recreated versions of older tracks, the music from the films became popular among listeners. The franchise has reportedly earned more than ₹3,000 crore worldwide.

Who is Sameer Anjaan?

Sameer Anjaan is among Hindi cinema’s well-known lyricists and is the son of veteran lyricist Anjaan. He began his career in the film industry in the 1980s and went on to write lyrics for several popular Bollywood films, including Aashiqui, Dil, Deewana and Hum Hain Rahi Pyaar Ke. His notable songs include Nazar Ke Saamne, Teri Umeed Tera Intezaar and Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, among several other popular tracks that have remained associated with Hindi cinema’s musical legacy.