Javed Akhtar questioned the need to recreate old elements and said that if filmmakers can make a new movie, they can create new songs for it as well.
Javed Akhtar, who wrote the lyrics for the 1997 film Border, shared that the team behind Border 2 had approached him to be part of the upcoming project. However, in an interview with India Today, he said he turned down the offer, calling the move a sign of “intellectual and creative bankruptcy.”
Why Javed Akhtar chose not to be part of Border 2
As songs from Border 2 are released, many listeners have noticed that several tracks are revamped versions of the original film’s music. This led some social media users to question why lyricist Javed Akhtar and composer Anu Malik—both associated with the 1997 classic Border—are not involved in the sequel.
Addressing this, Javed Akhtar revealed that he was approached to write for Border 2 but declined the offer. He said revisiting old songs by slightly modifying them reflects a lack of creative originality. According to him, filmmakers should either compose entirely new music or admit that recreating the same standard of work is not possible.
On creating new songs for sequels
Javed Akhtar also spoke about the importance of moving forward creatively. He questioned the need to reuse or recreate past work when a new film is being made. Citing Haqeeqat (1964) as an example, he explained that despite its memorable songs, the makers of Border chose not to reuse them and instead created fresh music—which audiences appreciated. He emphasized that relying on past glory suggests an acceptance that the same creative excellence can no longer be achieved.
About Border 2
Scheduled for release in 2026, Border 2 is among the most awaited films of the year. Directed by Anurag Singh, the sequel stars Sunny Deol in the lead role, alongside Varun Dhawan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Ahan Shetty. Inspired by the 1971 India–Pakistan war, the film is produced by Gulshan Kumar and T-Series in collaboration with JP Dutta’s JP Films. The movie is set to release in cinemas on January 23, ahead of Republic Day, and also features Mona Singh, Medha Rana, Sonam Bajwa, and Diljit Dosanjh in pivotal roles.
