As concerns grow over the increasing crassness in film music, some of India’s most respected lyricists have voiced their opinions on the changing tone of song lyrics.
Gulzar says, “I am not too familiar with the writing style of today’s lyrics. But we of the old school were very clear about certain aesthetics: no vulgarity, no double meanings, no denigration of any individual or community. Times have changed, and the idea now seems to be to attract attention through any means, fair or unfair.”
Javed Akhtar is more direct in his criticism. “I have read the words of the song ‘Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke’ from the Kannada film KD: The Devil on social media. It is not just borderline porn; it has crossed all boundaries of decency by many miles. I’ve been very particular about my lyrics from the start. In fact, I said no to Karan Johar’s Kuch Kuch Hota Hai as the title made me uncomfortable.”
Swanand Kirkire offers a more nuanced view. “I feel sad. This is not a moral stand, but the hyper-masculine trends emerging these days are worrisome. They tend to belittle the other gender. I am not against eroticism poets in the past have handled it with great beauty and sensitivity.”
Manoj Muntashir adds, “Poetry was never meant to descend into vulgarity or disrespect women. The pressure to succeed, create chartbusters, and stay relevant weighs on everyone. But success that comes at the cost of eroding the very fabric of our culture is simply unacceptable. Filmmakers, lyricists, and music creators must now awaken to their responsibility toward society and the generations to come. What we celebrate in our art today shapes the values we pass on tomorrow.”
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