Filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has criticized music label T-Series, led by Bhushan Kumar, for underpaying him for the music of his films like Dev D, Gangs of Wasseypur, and Gulaal.
He claimed they lack good taste in music and only focus on big stars rather than quality content. According to Kashyap, T-Series didn’t value the music unless the film featured major celebrities.
He highlighted that Bombay Velvet, despite not doing well at the box office, received the highest payment for its music because it starred well-known actors.
Kashyap pointed out the irony that the label ignored better music in his other films simply because they didn’t have big names.
He also stated that T-Series pushes only a particular type of music that suits their commercial goals.
However, it’s important to understand that the audio business, like filmmaking, is ultimately a business driven by commercial viability.
Not just T-Series, but most major audio labels base their decisions on marketability, star power, and return on investment.
Paying higher for bigger names is a standard practice, not a reflection of musical taste, because even the people recognize star studded music than otherwise. Kashyap’s criticism overlooks the commercial realities of the industry.
At times, Anurag Kashyap’s remarks come across as self-pitying and overly preachy.
As he grows older, his statements increasingly showing a sense of complaining rather than practical understanding, raising questions about his evolving outlook on the industry.
Kashyap is now gearing up for his new film Nishaanchi, releasing in September 2025. He will also appear in the gangster drama Dacoit later this year.
