Mumbai– Renowned lyricist Javed Akhtar has shared his thoughts on the evolving landscape of Indian music, expressing concern over the growing preference for Western musical styles in India, even when they aren’t widely popular in the West itself.
Speaking at an event, Akhtar referenced legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar, who once remarked that earlier, “music was made to give singers some rest, but nowadays, music is such that music gets some rest.” He echoed her sentiment, highlighting how musical composition in India has shifted away from its roots.
“In the West, music is made to be heard. There, the common man doesn’t sing. But India is a country of singers. Our connection to music is different,” Akhtar said. “Today, we’re creating music that isn’t really needed. That’s why true music is disappearing.”
He further underscored the point by noting that children appearing on singing reality shows often perform songs from four decades ago, rather than recent releases—signaling a lack of lasting impact in today’s music.
Akhtar also addressed the controversy surrounding singer-actor Diljit Dosanjh casting Pakistani actress Hania Aamir in his upcoming film Sardaar Ji 3. He argued that criticism of the casting is misplaced, as the film was shot before geopolitical tensions escalated.
“How was he to know? Pakistan won’t lose money over this—our own countryman will. Laws can’t be applied retrospectively,” Akhtar said. “The Censor Board and the government should approach this with sympathy. They can say it shouldn’t happen again, but punishing this now isn’t fair.”
Filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, also present at the event, defended Dosanjh’s patriotism, saying, “I can’t comment on the controversy directly, but I know Diljit. He’s full of patriotic spirit. He’s a son of the soil. At all his concerts, he proudly waves the Indian flag. He’s not someone who pretends.” (Source: IANS)
