Anuv Jain Says Independent Music Gives Him Financial Freedom to Be Selective About Bollywood Offers

MUMBAI–Indian singer-songwriter Anuv Jain says the success of his independent music career has given him the financial stability and creative freedom to turn down Bollywood opportunities that do not align with his artistic vision.

Jain, who has received several offers to compose original music for Hindi films, said he is interested in working in Bollywood but is waiting for a project that allows him to deliver his best work.

“There have been a few offers from Bollywood, and I would really like to wait for the right project to come my way. I’m quite selective”, Jain said.

The singer emphasized that his cautious approach does not reflect a lack of interest in the film industry or disrespect toward filmmakers who have approached him.

“It’s not out of any disrespect to anybody, but I feel that if I do something, I want to do it right and give it my best”, he explained.

Unlike artists who depend heavily on film soundtracks for commercial exposure, Jain has established an independent music career that allows him to maintain control over his creative decisions.

He credited the audience he has built through his independently released songs with providing both financial security and the confidence to pursue projects on his own terms.

“I’ve been very fortunate that all the music I’ve released independently has helped me build a strong foundation for myself, both financially and in terms of my audience. That has also given me the luxury of being a little more selective and not necessarily getting into things that may seem like very good opportunities but don’t truly align with what I feel”, Jain said.

The singer’s comments reflect his preference for artistic compatibility over simply accepting opportunities to enter the Hindi film industry.

While discussing his musical influences, Jain also named several prominent Indian and Pakistani singers whose work has shaped his appreciation of music.

Among them were Arijit Singh, Atif Aslam, Sonu Nigam, Shaan and the late Lata Mangeshkar.

Jain singled out Arijit Singh as an influential figure for contemporary Indian singers, while also praising Atif Aslam’s performances, including his work on Coke Studio.

“Someone like Arijit Singh, who has been such a benchmark for our generation and someone we all look up to. Then there’s Atif Aslam sir, whose music, including his work on Coke Studio, has been absolutely amazing. I also have immense admiration for Sonu Nigam sir, Shaan sir and Lata Mangeshkar ma’am”, he shared.

Jain also revealed that collaborating with playback singer Shreya Ghoshal remains one of his musical ambitions.

He expressed particular interest in composing a song specifically for Ghoshal, whose voice he greatly admires.

“Shreya Ghoshal has such a beautiful and incredible voice. I would genuinely love to have the opportunity to work with her someday and write something for her. I think that would be really special”, he said.

Although Jain remains open to Bollywood projects and collaborations with established playback singers, he indicated that his independent career will continue to guide his professional decisions.

For now, the singer appears content to build on the success of his own music while waiting for a film project that matches his creative priorities. (Source: IANS)