World ( The cow news digital ) Pakistani singer Abrar-ul-Haq has alleged that Indian filmmaker Karan Johar used his popular song “Nach Punjaban” in a Bollywood production without obtaining legal permission, sparking renewed debate over intellectual property rights and cross-border music usage.
Speaking on a recent podcast appearance, the renowned singer claimed that his track was incorporated into the 2022 Bollywood film Jugjugg Jeeyo, starring Varun Dhawan and produced in part by Karan Johar, without securing authorization from the original rights holder. Abrar-ul-Haq stated that the film was heavily promoted and marketed around the song, which he described as an unfair use of his creative work.
The singer further alleged that there has been a long-standing dispute over ownership rights of several of his songs, including “Billo De Ghar” and “Nach Punjaban.” He claimed that certain individuals in London were involved in transferring or misrepresenting ownership rights of his music catalog to third parties, including entities in India.
Abrar-ul-Haq said he was misled into signing documents under false pretenses, adding that forged paperwork and signatures had been used in attempts to control or reassign his music rights. He stressed that similar issues have reportedly affected other artists as well, indicating a broader problem within the music rights management system.
Regarding “Nach Punjaban,” Abrar-ul-Haq asserted that no formal permission was taken by the filmmakers before using the song in Jugjugg Jeeyo. He said he has taken legal action over the matter, and the case is currently pending in court.
The song, originally released in 2001, became widely popular across South Asia and remained one of Abrar-ul-Haq’s most recognizable hits. Its inclusion in the 2022 Bollywood film brought it renewed attention, introducing it to a younger international audience.
However, the singer maintains that the usage violated his rights and constituted unauthorized exploitation of his intellectual property. He emphasized that artists must be properly compensated and credited when their work is used commercially, particularly in major film productions.
The controversy highlights ongoing concerns in the entertainment industry regarding copyright enforcement, cross-border licensing agreements, and protection of artists’ intellectual property in digital and film media.
As the legal proceedings continue, neither Karan Johar nor the producers of Jugjugg Jeeyo have issued a detailed public response addressing the specific allegations raised by Abrar-ul-Haq.
