filmmaker - The Latremie Post

Filmmaker Aditya Sarpotdar, currently basking in the success of his latest release *Thamma*, has addressed the ongoing criticism surrounding the film’s inclusion of three item songs: “Poison Baby,” “Tum Mere Na Huye,” and “Dilbar Ki Aankhon Ka.”

The director, who earlier delivered the horror-comedy hit *Munjya* within the same universe, spoke openly about the debate in an interview with SCREEN. He explained his creative reasoning and how such songs serve a functional role in modern storytelling and marketing.

### Thamma Director Aditya Sarpotdar Defends Use of Item Songs:
**“They’re marketing assets, but my story unfolds through them.”**

Reacting to the backlash, Sarpotdar stated, “All these things are marketing assets that lead you into a film. What counts is what the film gives you in the end. For me, when these songs appear, they’re there because my story unfolds through them.”

The filmmaker emphasized that the tracks are not inserted merely for glamour but are woven into the narrative to enhance its rhythm and emotional beats.

The discussion around *Thamma*’s music gained traction after audiences questioned the need for three distinct item songs in a horror-comedy. Addressing the criticism head-on, Sarpotdar pointed out that audience perception seems to have shifted in recent times.

“This is the same audience that loved ‘Taras’ in *Munjya* and ‘Aaj Ki Raat.’ Nobody had a problem then. But now, suddenly, it’s an issue. Maybe it’s just happening more often, so people are reacting differently,” he remarked.

*Thamma*, which stars Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna, marks the first love story set within the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe—an interconnected cinematic world that includes *Stree*, *Bhediya*, and *Munjya*.

Despite receiving mixed critical reviews, the film continues to perform steadily at the box office, drawing audiences for its blend of romance, supernatural intrigue, and quirky humour.

Aditya Sarpotdar’s response reflects a broader conversation about how item songs are evolving in contemporary cinema—from being standalone entertainment numbers to narrative devices and powerful promotional tools.

As he puts it, what truly matters is the story that remains long after the music fades. With *Thamma*, Sarpotdar once again proves that commercial appeal and storytelling can coexist, even if it means defending a few catchy beats along the way.

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**Also Read:**
[EXCLUSIVE: Thamma actor Rachit Singh aka Veeran on waiting 10 years for the big break, “In these 10 years, I was working every day”; also reveals that his body transformation took 9 months]

**More Pages:**
– Thamma Box Office Collection
– Thamma Movie Review
– BOLLYWOOD NEWS LIVE UPDATES
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/thamma-director-aditya-sarpotdar-defends-use-item-songs-theyre-marketing-assets-story-unfolds/

**Madhur Bhandarkar Raises Objection to Title ‘Chandni Bar Returns’; Producers Claim Legal Rights Secured**

Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar has expressed objections to the use of the title *Chandni Bar Returns* by producer Sandeep Singh and director Ajay Bahl. Bhandarkar, who directed the original *Chandni Bar* (2001) starring Tabu, has lodged a complaint with the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA). He claims the makers of the sequel are using his registered title without proper consent.

The 2001 drama, which won multiple National Awards and established Bhandarkar’s name in Indian cinema, remains one of his most acclaimed works. In his complaint, he alleged that the title *Chandni Bar* belongs to him, and that Singh and Bahl have proceeded without authorisation.

Following Bhandarkar’s grievance, IMPPA has reportedly instructed the makers to halt the use of the title until the dispute is resolved.

### Producers Respond with Legal Clarification

In response, Sandeep Singh’s Legend Studios issued an official statement countering Bhandarkar’s claims. The studio asserted that they hold all necessary rights to proceed with the project.

Legend Studios clarified that they acquired the option rights to the title from the original producers of *Chandni Bar*, represented by the late R. Mohan’s wife, Lata Mohan Iyer. She is listed as the proprietor in the Government of India’s Trademark Registry.

Co-producer Vishal Gurnani stated:
“Sandeep Singh’s Legend Studios has acquired the Option Rights of the said title from the Original Producers, who are also the owners of the Registered Trademark and IP rights of the original cult classic *Chandni Bar* (2001). We want to state that no other banner can legally make the said film. Our IP lawyers are replying to the concerned trade associations and are taking all necessary steps to validate and protect our legal rights.”

Additionally, the studio shared the official trademark certificate (Application Number 1662053, Class 41), listing Lata Mohan Iyer as the proprietor, substantiating their claim to the title.

### The Road Ahead for *Chandni Bar Returns*

Despite Bhandarkar’s objection, Legend Studios has confirmed that the sequel is moving forward. Directed by Ajay Bahl, *Chandni Bar Returns* is slated for a worldwide release on December 3, 2026.

The makers describe the film as a reimagined sequel that will retain the essence of the original while presenting a modern, gritty narrative tailored for contemporary audiences. Legend Studios emphasizes its commitment to honoring the legacy of the 2001 classic while ensuring that the production of *Chandni Bar Returns* remains legally compliant and respectful of the original’s cultural impact.

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**Also Read:**
[Ankita Lokhande turns producer with Chandni Bar sequel; says she wants to pave the way for newcomers]

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**More Pages:**
– Chandni Bar Box Office Collection
– Bollywood News Live Updates
https://www.bollywoodhungama.com/news/bollywood/madhur-bhandarkar-objects-chandni-bar-returns-producers-claim-legal-rights-secured/

Tag: filmmaker

Thamma director Aditya Sarpotdar defends use of item songs: “They’re marketing assets, but my story unfolds through them”

Madhur Bhandarkar objects to Chandni Bar Returns; producers claim legal rights secured