Producer Vashu Bhagnani is currently embroiled in a legal dispute with filmmaker David Dhawan. In a recent virtual press conference, Bhagnani addressed the lawsuit and opened up about the financial losses he suffered from their last collaboration, the 2020 film 'Coolie No. 1', which flopped at the box office. He also revealed that David Dhawan's son, actor Varun Dhawan, never checked on him after the film's failure.
Legal Battle Over 'Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai'
According to an IANS report, the lawsuit filed by Vashu Bhagnani in Katihar, Bihar, revolves around the upcoming Bollywood film 'Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai', starring Varun Dhawan. The producer has sued Tips Industries and associated parties, alleging unauthorized use of intellectual property linked to older hit films like 'Biwi No. 1'. The immediate trigger was the recreated use of the iconic song 'Chunari Chunari' from 'Biwi No. 1'.
Bhagnani's Emotional Statement
Talking to the media, Bhagnani said, "Very honestly, after this case, there is some bitterness in all relationships. But Varun hasn't called me in 2 years anyway. We made 'Coolie No. 1' in 2020 and suffered a loss of INR 27 crore; he never even bothered to ask how I was doing. If he maintains the relationship, fine. If not, that's fine too. I lost a lot of money being with him. He is like my child, children make mistakes. Father and son, so be it."
He further added, "My heart is broken. I am not afraid of anyone in this world, not even my father. I am proud that I have never done wrong to anyone. But I am broken because after doing so much, they are making me out to be the thief, the fool. Varun Dhawan is saying these things. David Ji is saying these things. Ramesh Ji too. There is no need for this."
Bhagnani also mentioned that despite the strained relationship, he remains open to reconciliation: "We had such a good relationship. Even now I am saying, call them on this call, I will settle it in 10 minutes. But if they don't want to, how can it be settled? They were so confident until 3 days ago: 'What can Vashu do to us?'"
Intellectual Property Dispute
Bhagnani claimed that although Tips owned the audio rights, the underlying film-linked intellectual property and recreation permissions still required consent or involvement from his side. This forms the crux of the legal battle.
About 'Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai'
Directed by David Dhawan, the film features Varun Dhawan, Mrunal Thakur, and Pooja Hegde. It is scheduled to release in cinemas on June 5, 2026.
