Yash Raj Films has not paid my royalties: Salim Merchant
What's the story
Singer Salim Merchant, part of popular Bollywood score composer duo Salim-Sulaiman, has claimed that renowned production banner Yash Raj Films (YRF) has not paid his dues in royalties, despite having collected it on his behalf. He also accused Bhushan Kumar's T-Series of not clearing his dues. The comments have come after an FIR was recently lodged against YRF over non-payment of royalties to artists.
Details
YRF and T-Series have not been paying, alleged Salim
Speaking about the issue, Salim told The Quint, "Yash Raj has been collecting money on behalf of the composer(s) and lyricist(s), that much I know, but I don't know whether they have paid anyone. They have certainly not paid me and Sulaiman." "It's Yash Raj Films and T-Series, these two companies have not been paying," he further added.
History
YRF has allegedly pocketed Rs. 100 crore in royalties
Notably, on Wednesday, an FIR was filed against Yash Raj Films for allegedly pocketing a whopping Rs. 100 crore in royalties, that actually belong to the members of the Indian Performing Rights Society (IPRS), which comprises various singers, lyricists, and singers. The FIR mentioned names of company directors Aditya and Uday Chopra. Now, a case under IPC Sections 409 and 34 has been registered.
Comment
Javed Akhtar has also not been paid, said Salim
Salim added that noted lyricist and chairperson of the IPRS, Javed Akhtar has also not been paid by YRF. "I know Javed Akhtar 'sahib' has not been paid, for sure. Because my last meeting with him... You know, he's not been paid," he said. However, there has been no comment from YRF in the matter, so far.
Work
Salim-Sulaiman have been composing for YRF since a long time
It should be noted that Salim-Sulaiman have been associated with YRF for a long time now. They have composed music for various YRF films like Ladies vs Ricky Bahl, Band Baaja Baarat, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Mardaani, and Chak De! India, among others. Reportedly, the duo is now focusing on composing singles, and performing at concerts.