The Untold Story Behind 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai's Iconic Lyrics
Karan Johar's directorial debut 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' has achieved legendary status over the decades, cherished for its memorable moments, timeless songs, and nostalgic appeal. However, few know the fascinating backstory involving veteran screenwriter Javed Akhtar's initial involvement and subsequent departure from the project.
Javed Akhtar's Warning and Departure
In a recent interview with Bollywood Hungama, lyricist Sameer Anjaan revealed that he contacted Javed Akhtar before accepting the film out of deep respect. "He is like a father figure to me," Sameer stated. "I told him, 'Javed sahab, I hope you don't feel bad, because you are senior to me. I came to know that you were supposed to write for this film. I wish to take your permission—are you writing for it or aren't you?'"
Akhtar's response was surprising. "He said, 'I am not writing it, and I would advise you not to write for it either because the director is weird and adamant and he doesn't listen.'" Sameer persisted, asking for confirmation about Akhtar's involvement, to which Akhtar firmly replied, "No, I am not at all doing it, Sameer."
Why Javed Akhtar Really Rejected the Film
In an earlier interaction with The Lallantop, Sameer explained the core reason for Akhtar's departure. "Javed sahab was supposed to write the songs for this film. However, he quit because he didn't like the title. He asked Karan Johar to change it, and only then would he work on it. He liked the story but felt the title was vulgar."
Javed Akhtar himself has confirmed this in multiple interviews. Speaking with comedian Sapan Verma, he said, "I avoid films that, in any way, had lyrics I found absurd or vulgar. This principle led me to turn down a very successful film, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. I had written the first song for it, but when Karan decided on the title, I refused to work on a film with that name. I thought, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai… kya hota hai? I regret it now, but at that time, I refused."
Sameer Anjaan's Decision to Join Despite Warnings
Despite Akhtar's cautionary advice, Sameer decided to proceed after hearing Karan Johar's narration. "Then I heard the story and liked it a lot. I didn't find anything wrong with the title. The story was brilliant. When I connected with the director's thought process during the two-and-a-half or three-hour narration, I was very impressed. I felt I should do this film. The star cast was great," he elaborated.
Yash Chopra's Crucial Role in Sameer's Selection
Sameer clarified that the opportunity came through legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra, not directly from Karan Johar. "Yash ji was also supporting him. Half of the time, Karan grew up at Yash ji's place. He also did a small role in Aditya Chopra's Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge," Sameer noted.
He continued, "I was called for the film by Yash Chopra, not by Karan Johar. He said that since Javed sahab isn't writing it, he only has two lyricists, Bakshi sahab and me, and Karan didn't want to work with an older writer. He asked for a younger writer. Yashji then suggested my name, and Karan readily agreed to meet me. That's how I got the film."
The Legacy of 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai's Music
Sameer expressed pride in his work on the film, despite the initial controversies. "I tried my best to do good work. The music was declared the best of the century. It's a blessing from God," he said. The soundtrack, featuring hits like "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" and "Ladki Badi Anjani Hai," remains iconic, contributing significantly to the film's enduring popularity.
This revelation highlights the unpredictable nature of Bollywood collaborations and how creative differences can lead to unexpected opportunities. Javed Akhtar's principled stand and Sameer Anjaan's subsequent involvement created a cinematic milestone that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide.
