Singer-composer Amaal Malik has once again stirred conversation across the Hindi film industry and among fans after posting a deeply personal note on Instagram, alleging systematic exclusion from projects over the last several years. In a candid statement addressed directly to his fanbase, whom he calls “AMAALIANS,” the composer claimed that “powerful positions” and industry politics have cost him more than 60 projects since 2019. The revelation has triggered fresh debate around gatekeeping, creative camps, and the increasingly visible divide between mainstream film music and the independent music ecosystem.
The post reads:
“My Dear AMAALIANS, 2019 to 2026, the big boys in powerful positions have got me out of more than 60 odd projects. 20 films toh maine khud hi mana kar diye, as it was beneath me to work in those setups. The musician in me wouldn’t be able to respect himself. I still did my bit and will always do my best to put music and shoot videos whenever possible for my fans, with or without the movies. No regrets at all, it’s their loss :)”
Amaal further acknowledged the impact this has had on listeners who have often questioned why his output in mainstream cinema has reduced in recent years.
“But somehow it becomes a loss to my listeners & fans, and I’m sorry for that, but I need to make it clear to all of you. I’m trying my best for the last 8 years, with utmost sincerity & obviously some respectful terms & conditions of working, but sadly it doesn’t work for this place.”
The composer also hinted at deeper industry power structures, claiming the resistance against him goes beyond music labels.
“There are some very powerful sets of people that don’t want me to be part of their films or any film, for a matter of fact, and it’s not just LABELS, it’s beyond that, NOW, it’s a mixed syndicate of egoistic humans.”
While he stopped short of naming individuals or banners, Amaal’s remarks are likely to reignite conversations around lobbying and factionalism within Bollywood’s music and film business. Trade circles have long discussed how composer-director-actor camps influence soundtrack deals, especially in an era where streaming numbers, social media visibility, and label alliances increasingly shape opportunities.
Interestingly, Amaal framed his stance less as a professional complaint and more as an artistic refusal to compromise. He suggested that some projects did not align with his creative self-respect, even admitting he voluntarily stepped away from around 20 films.
The most pointed section of his note came when addressing industry politics and nepotism, subjects that continue to remain sensitive talking points in Hindi cinema.
“All of them are playing award-worthy politics for almost 8 years now, and that’s why you hear less of my music in films. I can’t be part of a clout, a power setup, or be part of petty groupism. Even the NEPOTISM isn’t working.”
For audiences, however, the message ended on a hopeful note. Rather than positioning this as a retreat from music, Amaal used the post to push listeners toward his independent work, signalling a stronger focus on non-film music moving forward.
“SO MUJHE MAAF KARO…MERA INDIE MUSIC SUNO…IF A FILM SONG COMES GREAT, IF NOT THEN DON’T FRET.”
The statement arrives at a time when many composers and singers are increasingly balancing film assignments with independent releases, where artists enjoy greater ownership and creative freedom. For fans of Amaal Malik’s melodic style, the message is clear: even if Bollywood projects become fewer, the music is not stopping anytime soon.