Filmmaker Aditya Sarpotdar, who is 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 universe, responded to the debate in an interview with SCREEN, explaining his creative reasoning and how such songs play a functional role in modern storytelling and marketing. 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. 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.
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Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar has raised objections to the use of the title Chandni Bar Returns by producer Sandeep Singh and director Ajay Bahl. The director, who helmed the original Chandni Bar (2001) starring Tabu, has complained with the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA), claiming that the makers of the sequel are using his registered title without consent. The 2001 drama, which won multiple National Awards and cemented Bhandarkars place in Indian cinema, remains one of his most acclaimed works. In his complaint, Bhandarkar alleged that the title Chandni Bar belongs to him and that Singh and Bahl have proceeded without proper authorisation. Following his grievance, IMPPA has reportedly instructed the makers to stop using the title until the matter is resolved. Producers Respond With Legal Clarification In response, Sandeep Singhs Legend Studios has issued an official statement, countering Bhandarkars claims and asserting that they hold all necessary rights to proceed with the project. The studio clarified that they acquired the option rights to the title from the original producers of Chandni Bar, represented by the late R. Mohans wife, Lata Mohan Iyer, who is listed as the proprietor in the Government of Indias 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 owner 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. The studio also shared the official trademark certificate (Application Number 1662053, Class 41), which lists Lata Mohan Iyer as the proprietor, thereby substantiating its claim to the title. The Road Ahead for Chandni Bar Returns Despite Bhandarkars objection, Legend Studios has confirmed that the sequel is moving forward. The film, directed by Ajay Bahl, is slated for a worldwide release on December 3, 2026. The makers describe the project as a reimagined sequel that will retain the essence of the original while presenting a modern, gritty narrative for contemporary audiences. Legend Studios maintains that it is committed to honoring the legacy of the 2001 classic while ensuring that the production of Chandni Bar Returns remains legally compliant and respectful of its predecessors cultural impact. Also Read: Ankita Lokhande turns producer with Chandni Bar sequel; says she wants to pave the way for newcomers.