The highly anticipated sequel to the 1997 war film Border, titled Border 2, is generating buzz, but not without stirring some controversy. Veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar, who penned the memorable songs for the original Border, has declined to write for the sequel, sparking debate about creative integrity versus nostalgia in the film industry.
Akhtar, in a recent interview, revealed that the makers of Border 2 approached him, but he refused the offer. The reason behind his decision is his belief that relying on recreating old songs indicates "intellectual and creative bankruptcy". He argued that filmmakers should either create new, original songs or acknowledge their inability to surpass the quality of the original soundtrack.
"You have an old song that did well, and you want to put it out again by adding something?" Akhtar stated. "Make new songs or else accept that you cannot do the same level of work". He emphasized the importance of moving forward and creating fresh content instead of depending on past successes. Akhtar referenced the 1964 film Haqeeqat, noting that despite its brilliant songs, the filmmakers chose to create new ones for that film, a decision he feels should be emulated. He questioned why filmmakers are depending on the past, suggesting it's an acceptance that they "can't do it" and are choosing to "live with the past glory".
Border 2 features reimagined versions of iconic tracks from the original film, including "Sandese Aate Hain," now appearing as "Ghar Kab Aaoge," and "Ae Jaate Hue Lamhon," reimagined as "Jaate Hue Lamhon". "Ghar Kab Aaoge" features the voices of Sonu Nigam, Arijit Singh, Diljit Dosanjh, and Vishal Mishra. While these recreations aim to evoke nostalgia, they have divided listeners, with some feeling the songs retain the soul of the original while others express disappointment.
Bhushan Kumar, the producer of Border 2, addressed the criticism surrounding the recreation of "Sandese Aate Hain". He clarified that retaining the song was "non-negotiable" for the sequel, alongside the title Border and Sunny Deol. Kumar explained that the updated lyrics, penned by Manoj Muntashir, reflect the new narrative, which portrays different stories linked to the 1971 war and other soldiers' lives.
Directed by Anurag Singh and produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, J.P. Dutta, and Nidhi Dutta, Border 2 stars Sunny Deol, Varun Dhawan, Ahan Shetty, and Diljit Dosanjh. The film is scheduled to release on January 23. It remains to be seen whether Border 2's blend of nostalgia and new elements will resonate with audiences and critics, especially in light of the debate sparked by Javed Akhtar's comments.
