The professional relationship between filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and music composer Ismail Darbar, known for the iconic scores in "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam" and "Devdas," has been a topic of much discussion, particularly regarding their creative clashes and eventual fallout. Now, Awez Darbar, Ismail's son, has shed more light on the dynamic between the two, describing it as a "Tom and Jerry-like relationship" characterized by ego clashes and frequent disagreements.

In a recent interview, Awez Darbar discussed the pattern of his father and Bhansali collaborating, creating music, and then falling out, a cycle that has repeated itself over the years. He suggested that Bhansali, himself a composer, may have felt insecure about the recognition Ismail Darbar received for his musical contributions.

Ismail Darbar has also spoken candidly about the tensions that arose during their collaborations. He stated that a breaking point was reached after a media article highlighted Darbar as the "backbone" of Bhansali's web series, "Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar," emphasizing the strength of his music despite the show's ensemble cast. Darbar claimed Bhansali believed that Darbar had orchestrated the article, leading to a rift between them. Darbar recalled being summoned to Bhansali's office and confronted about the article.

Darbar stated that he left "Heeramandi" before Bhansali could push him out. Reflecting on his work with Bhansali, Darbar asserted his significant role in the success of "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam" and "Devdas," stating that his PR team had highlighted his contributions at the time. He believes that Bhansali's ego and fear of Darbar taking credit for his work contributed to their strained relationship.

In an earlier interview, Ismail Darbar stated he would refuse to work with Sanjay Leela Bhansali again, even for a substantial sum of ₹100 crore, emphasizing the depth of their fallout. He described Bhansali as "egoistic" and recalled arguments during "Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam" that later escalated.

Despite past reports in 2014 suggesting a reconciliation after Darbar chose Subhash Ghai's "Kisna" over Bhansali's "Bajirao Mastani" in 2005, the relationship appears to have deteriorated significantly. At the time, Darbar had called Bhansali his "godfather," acknowledging Bhansali's early support for his music. He also noted that their differences were purely creative and not personal. However, current sentiments suggest a more profound and irreparable rift. Darbar even admitted to watching "Heeramandi" but not being impressed, confidently asserting that his music would have elevated the series to "immortal" status.

Awez Darbar's recent comments further illustrate the complex and often turbulent nature of Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Ismail Darbar's professional relationship, marked by creative brilliance, ego clashes, and ultimately, a significant fallout.