Amit Jadhav Accuses Saiyaara of Copying His 2019 Short Film Khwaabon
A viral Instagram video posted by singer-filmmaker Amit Jadhav has ignited a significant controversy surrounding the upcoming Bollywood film Saiyaara, starring Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda. Jadhav has publicly alleged that the storyline of the 2025 movie bears a striking resemblance to the plot of his own 2019 YouTube short film titled Khwaabon.
Similar Plotlines Spark Accusations
In his detailed statement, Jadhav pointed out that both narratives center on a couple whose lives are dramatically altered when the female lead develops a memory loss condition and subsequently goes missing. The male protagonist, portrayed as a musician in both stories, embarks on a heartfelt quest to find her, using a song as a crucial element in his search.
"I had received a message from YRF Talent in 2022," Jadhav revealed, recounting his initial interactions with the production giant Yash Raj Films. He explained that he had attempted to address the issue previously, noting an unexpected direct message on Instagram from YRF Talent two years prior.
"I asked them which project they were reaching out to me for, but they didn't answer. I didn't know anyone there, and neither had I given any audition for them to contact me," he elaborated, expressing his confusion at the time.
Realization After Film Release
According to Jadhav, the full extent of the similarities only became apparent after Saiyaara was released. "A week after Saiyaara's release, my friends called me and said, 'tera toh story same tha'. I was shocked," he shared. Despite his efforts to reach out to the production house, including visiting their office, he claims he received no response or acknowledgment.
While some online discussions had previously suggested that Saiyaara might be inspired by the 2004 Korean film A Moment to Remember, Jadhav firmly believes the Bollywood version is much closer to his own creation. He emphasized that his short film also heavily incorporates music and a musician's journey to reconnect with his partner, strengthening the perceived resemblance.
Emotional Toll and Personal Struggles
The filmmaker opened up about the profound emotional impact this situation has had on his life. Jadhad had been actively working to expand Khwaabon into a full-length feature film, a dream that now feels jeopardized.
"One day I almost committed suicide," he confessed, describing a low point where he felt the world was against his success. "I was sloshed, my parents saw me and that's how I got saved. I felt like the world doesn't want me to succeed. I was not called for any auditions."
He further disclosed that he had already begun developing a feature script based on the story and had secured producers, with plans to shoot in 2025. However, the release of Saiyaara has thrown these plans into disarray, leaving his project in limbo.
Seeking Acknowledgement and Resolution
When questioned about formal registration of his story, Jadhav clarified that although he is a member of the Screenwriters Association, he did not register the script in 2019 because the short film was already publicly available as proof of his work.
He also mentioned attempting to contact the production house again after the film's release, sending emails that referenced the earlier Instagram message and highlighted the similarities. "I mailed twice but got no answer," he stated.
For now, Jadhav's demands are modest. "I should get some credit. Or I can be cast in some role at least in some project. That's all I am seeking," he expressed, hoping for some form of recognition from the industry.
As of now, neither director Mohit Suri nor Yash Raj Films have issued any official response to these serious allegations. The entertainment community awaits their statement as this plagiarism debate continues to unfold.
