During the media interaction, he said that his fight is not about money but about ethics. He also stressed the need for stronger reforms in the way royalties and film IP rights are managed in the Indian film industry.
Referring to the Chunnari Chunnari controversy involving filmmaker David Dhawan and rights linked to Biwi No 1, the producer claimed that while audio rights may have been licensed, the visual rights and overall ownership of the film content still remain with him. He questioned how material from his films could be reused or recreated without proper approval or settlement.
He further added that a producer’s earnings largely depend on royalties and that intellectual property is their most important asset. “A producer’s kitchen runs on royalty. The IP is our asset. I made films so my children’s future remains secure. If someone takes that IP away, they are taking away everything,” said an emotional .
The veteran producer also spoke about how the controversy has deeply affected him and his family. He added that it is not about ego but about restoring his rights.
Vashu Bhagnani with David Dhawan
Vaashu Bhagnani on Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai trailer, release
Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai’s trailer was supposed to release on Thursday; however, it was cancelled at the last minute. While the makers said it was due to a ” rumours suggested that the ongoing legal dispute may have played a role in the decision. Addressing this, Bhagnani said he has no objection to the film’s release but wants proper respect for his songs, scenes, and rights, and hopes for a fair and peaceful resolution.
During the press interaction, he repeatedly said that the matter is not limited to one film or one song. He described it as a wider issue affecting many producers who, according to him, often do not receive long-term ownership or fair royalty benefits despite major investments.
Bhagnani also spoke about strained relationships with some industry colleagues but said he is still open to discussion and settlement. He added that the issue could be resolved peacefully if all parties came together with mutual respect. He further suggested the need for an industry-wide royalty system where revenue from films and music is shared fairly among producers, directors, writers, actors, and music companies instead of being controlled by a single group.