The makers of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, including producer Ramesh Taurani and Tips Films, have strongly denied allegations made by producer Vashu Bhagnani over the use of songs linked to his films.
In a joint statement, the team described Bhagnani’s accusations as a “smear campaign” motivated by personal vendetta and aimed at disrupting the release of the film.
The producers said their association with Bhagnani dates back to 1995 during the making of Coolie No. 1, claiming they had supported him professionally over the years.
They accused Bhagnani of spreading misinformation through social media and questioned his decision to file a legal complaint in a Bihar court instead of engaging in direct discussions.
The dispute centres around the recreated songs Chunnari Chunnari and Ishq Sona Hai, which Bhagnani alleges were reused without permission.
However, the makers of the film asserted that they are the “absolute and lawful owners” of the songs and said they would not make further comments because the matter is now before the courts.
Bhagnani, meanwhile, maintained that the issue is about ethics and intellectual property rights rather than money.
During a press conference, he expressed disappointment with filmmaker David Dhawan, whom he described as a close friend, for allegedly recreating songs associated with his films without seeking approval.
Bhagnani also rejected claims that the matter had already been settled and insisted he remains open to negotiations if proper permission is sought.
He referred to a court “status quo” order that he said applies to all music rights and songs mentioned in the ongoing suit against Tips Music.
The film stars Varun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde in a comedy-drama centred on a chaotic love triangle. Produced by Tips Films and Maximilian Films, it is scheduled for worldwide theatrical release on June 5, 2026. (ANI)
