Border 2: Sonu Nigam Backs Return of Sandese Aate Hain Amid Javed Akhtar’s Criticism

Singer Sonu Nigam has reacted to lyricist Javed Akhtar’s sharp criticism of recreating classic songs, offering a nuanced defence of the return of Sandese Aate Hain in Border 2. While acknowledging Akhtar’s concerns about originality, Nigam stressed that the song’s emotional and cultural value makes it inseparable from the Border franchise.

Javed Akhtar had earlier revealed that he was approached to write lyrics for Border 2 but declined the offer, calling the practice of reviving old songs a sign of “creative bankruptcy”. According to Akhtar, filmmakers should focus on creating new music rather than revisiting past successes, even in legacy franchises.

Responding to the remarks, Sonu Nigam shared an Instagram video addressing the debate. In his message, the singer made it clear that he respects Akhtar’s creative philosophy while offering his own perspective on why Sandese Aate Hain deserved a place in the sequel.

Nigam said that while Akhtar was correct in principle about avoiding repetition, Sandese Aate Hain holds a unique position within the Border universe. He described the song as an emotional symbol rather than just a musical composition. According to him, if Border represents the spirit of the Indian soldier, Sandese Aate Hain functions as its uniform — an identity that audiences instinctively associate with the film.

The singer added that Border 2 does include new music, pointing out that Mitte Ke Bete has been created as a fresh offering dedicated to Indian soldiers and the nation. He suggested that the inclusion of the iconic song does not undermine creativity but rather preserves continuity while introducing new elements for a new generation.

Reflecting on his long association with the franchise, Nigam shared a personal note about attending the premiere of Border in 1997 and now being present for Border 2 in 2026. He described the journey as deeply emotional and said he never imagined that the connection would span nearly three decades. The singer expressed gratitude for the love audiences have shown him and the song over the years.

The recreated version of Sandese Aate Hain in Border 2 features vocals by Arijit Singh, Diljit Dosanjh and Vishal Mishra, with additional lyrics penned by Manoj Muntashir. Nigam noted that while the composition retains its original soul, the updated version brings new voices and textures to reflect the scale and emotion of the sequel.

Javed Akhtar, however, has remained firm in his stance. In a previous interview, he argued that revisiting older songs reflects a lack of confidence in present-day creativity. He cited examples from earlier war films, noting that even when legendary songs existed, filmmakers chose to create entirely new music rather than rely on nostalgia.

Despite the differing viewpoints, the exchange has sparked a broader conversation within the film industry about originality, legacy and the balance between nostalgia and innovation.

Border 2, directed by Anurag Singh, is set against the backdrop of the 1971 India–Pakistan war and focuses on India’s multi-front military response. The film stars Sunny Deol, Diljit Dosanjh, Ahan Shetty, Mona Singh, Medha Rana, Sonam Bajwa and Anya Singh in key roles. The film released in theatres on January 23, 2026.