Ranveer Singh and Aditya Dhar's upcoming film, 'Dhurandhar,' is generating significant buzz, and not just for its action-packed sequences and stellar cast. The film revisits a classic qawwali, "Yeh Ishq Ishq Hai" (also known as "Na Toh Karwaan Ki Talaash Hai"), which has struck a chord with audiences and critics alike after its appearance in the movie's trailer.
The trailer for 'Dhurandhar' which was launched on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, is filled with gore and violence but ends on a nostalgic note, as director Aditya Dhar brings back a familiar tune. The song appears during the end credits, with the lyrics "Na toh karwaan ki talaash hai". The incorporation of this legendary qawwali in the trailer has especially resonated with viewers. As Ranveer Singh is seen in action mode, the qawwali plays in the background.
Originally composed by Roshan (grandfather of actor Hrithik Roshan) and penned by Sahir Ludhianvi, the qawwali "Yeh Ishq Ishq Hai" featured in the 1960 film 'Barsaat Ki Raat'. The original song was sung by renowned singers including Mohammed Rafi, Asha Bhosle, Manna Dey, S.D. Batish, and Sudha Malhotra. 'Barsaat Ki Raat,' directed by P.L. Santoshi, was a major success and became the second-highest-grossing film of the year, following 'Mughal-e-Azam'.
The re-introduction of this qawwali aims to connect with a younger generation of listeners. The song's theme of love and surrender maintains its relevance even 65 years after its initial release.
The song, however, has a controversial past. According to reports, producer R. Chandra initially wanted composer Khayyam to create a qawwali based on the Pakistani qawwali, "Na Tu Butkade Ki Talab Mujhe," created by Ustad Mubarak Ali Khan and Ustad Fateh Ali Khan. Khayyam declined, but Roshan agreed to take on the project, which resulted in "Yeh Ishq Ishq Hai".
The decision to include the qawwali in 'Dhurandhar' has been praised by many, including filmmaker Sujoy Ghosh, who lauded the trailer and the song's usage. He said that it was good that they brought a song from 'Barsaat Ki Raat' out there.
The film 'Dhurandhar', directed by Aditya Dhar, features an ensemble cast including Ranveer Singh, R. Madhavan, Arjun Rampal, Akshaye Khanna, and Sanjay Dutt. It is based on true events, revolving around Operation Lyari, a Pakistani covert operation. 'Dhurandhar' is slated to release on December 5, 2025.
