Anand Raaj Anand Says He Never Went Away as ‘Uncha Lamba Kad’ Returns

Mumbai — Composer Anand Raaj Anand has said he does not view the return of his 2007 song “Uncha Lamba Kad” in “Welcome to the Jungle” as a comeback, explaining that he had remained creatively active even while spending less time in the public spotlight.

Anand composed, wrote and sang the original song, which was featured in the 2007 film “Welcome” and picturized on Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif. Nineteen years later, he appears again in a recreated version with Rubai.

“The title Welcome itself feels like a signature in my life. It’s almost as if people are saying, ‘Anand, you’re back.’ I am overwhelmed by the love I have received. In fact, I am getting much more affection than I had imagined,” Anand said.

He said returning to the franchise was especially meaningful because some of his most memorable songs were associated with the original film.

“Returning to this franchise feels very special because Welcome has always been associated with some of my most memorable songs. Seeing those songs continue to be loved and now being recreated for a new generation feels almost magical,” he said.

Anand said he does not consider the new version a formal return to music.

“I don’t think I ever went away. I was simply in a creative zone rather than an execution zone. Music never left me, and neither did my passion for it. This phase feels like a natural continuation of my journey,” he said.

The composer said he was pleased that the song continued to resonate with listeners nearly two decades after its original release.

“The fact that the song is still being used in reels and continues to resonate with audiences after so many years is incredibly satisfying. I still remember receiving an urgent call around midnight from the team behind Welcome. They needed three songs within just 15 days,” Anand said.

“Those songs eventually became history. Uncha Lamba Kad and Honth Rasiley continue to be loved even today.”

He also expressed gratitude to Akshay Kumar and the film’s team for reviving the song.

“I feel extremely grateful to Akshay Kumar and the entire team for deciding to bring back Uncha Lamba Kad. Their belief in the song and its legacy means a lot to me,” he said.

Anand attributed the song’s enduring appeal to trust among the people involved and a shared commitment to creating memorable music.

“I think it is the mutual trust and belief in good music. Whenever everyone comes together with the intention of creating something entertaining and memorable, magic happens. Seeing Uncha Lamba Kad return in a new avatar while retaining its original flavour brought back so many memories. It felt nostalgic and exciting at the same time,” he said. (Source: IANS)