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Indian Lyricists Slam Vulgarity in Modern Film Songs
20 Mar
Summary
- Veteran lyricists express concern over declining lyrical standards.
- Explicit song lyrics are seen as crossing all boundaries of decency.
- Concern is raised over hyper-masculine trends belittling women.
Several prominent Indian lyricists have recently expressed deep concern regarding the perceived decline in the quality and decency of lyrics featured in modern film music. Stalwarts like Gulzar noted a departure from traditional aesthetics, where vulgarity and double meanings were avoided, contrasting it with current trends focused on sensationalism.
Javed Akhtar directly criticized a specific song, 'Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke,' from the Kannada film KD: The Devil, deeming its lyrics to be far beyond the bounds of decency. He recounted his own strictness with lyrics, even turning down a film title he found uncomfortable.
Swanand Kirkire offered a more nuanced perspective, highlighting worries about hyper-masculine trends that demean women, while affirming that eroticism can be handled with beauty and sensitivity. Manoj Muntashir stressed that poetry should not devolve into vulgarity or disrespect. He urged filmmakers and lyricists to recognize their societal responsibility. Muntashir further emphasized that the pressure to achieve success and remain relevant should not come at the cost of cultural erosion. He concluded by stating that the art celebrated today shapes future societal values, underscoring the importance of conscious creative choices.
