David Dhawan’s upcoming comedy film Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, starring Varun Dhawan, Pooja Hegde and Mrunal Thakur, is already creating a lot of buzz before its release on June 5. However, the film has also landed in controversy because of remake rumours and the remix version of the popular song Chunnari Chunnari from Biwi No. 1.
Recently, several reports claimed that the film could be inspired by or connected to older hit films made by David Dhawan. Because of this, production company Tips Industries released an official public statement to clear the confusion. The company said that Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai is a completely original film with a fresh story and screenplay. They also said that the makers have worked very hard on the project and are excited to bring a fun family entertainer to theatres.
At the same time, the film is also facing legal issues linked to the use of songs and intellectual property from older films. Recently, the court gave interim protection to Pooja Entertainment in a case against Tips. The dispute is connected to several old Bollywood films including Coolie No. 1, Hero No. 1, Biwi No. 1, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, Tera Jadoo Chal Gayaa and Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai. The case also directly affects the release and promotion of Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai.
Tips responded by saying they legally own the music rights and have valid agreements supporting their claim. According to the company, they have been using these rights openly and legally for nearly 30 years.
Producer Vashu Bhagnani also shared his side of the story in an interview. He said that years ago he had asked for the rights of the music back, but later the company asked him to take the music rights from them. He also revealed that when discussions about remaking old films were happening, he was assured that no remake of Biwi No. 1 was being made.
However, he was shocked when the remix version of Chunnari Chunnari was released featuring Varun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur and Pooja Hegde. He said the situation hurt him personally. He also claimed that actor Varun Dhawan assured him that the new film was not connected to any of their old movies.
For those unaware, Biwi No. 1 was released in 1999 and directed by David Dhawan. The film starred Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor, Tabu and Sushmita Sen, and became one of the biggest comedy hits of its time.