Javed Akhtar Laments Music’s Decline: “India Is a Country of Singers, Not Just Listeners”

At NDTV’s Creators Manch on June 27, 2025, legendary lyricist Javed Akhtar offered a candid critique of India’s current music landscape, contrasting it with the country’s rich vocal tradition. “In the West, music is made to be heard. But India is a country of singers,” he said, lamenting that today’s music often lacks soul and purpose.

Quoting the late Lata Mangeshkar, Akhtar remarked, “Earlier, music was made to give singers some rest. Now, music itself is resting.” He expressed concern that contemporary compositions are forgettable, noting how children on singing shows still prefer to perform 40-year-old classics over recent releases.

Akhtar also addressed the controversy surrounding Diljit Dosanjh casting Pakistani actress Hania Amir in Sardaar Ji 3, defending the actor by stating the film was shot before diplomatic tensions escalated. “Laws can’t be applied retrospectively,” he urged, calling for a more empathetic stance from the Censor Board.

Key Highlights:
Akhtar’s critique: Modern music lacks depth and recall value

Cultural insight: India’s tradition is rooted in participatory singing

Quote: “Music is resting” in today’s era

On Diljit row: Defends casting decision; urges retrospective leniency

Source: Sakshi Post – Javed Akhtar on Present-Day Music