KD The Devil director Prem breaks silence on Sarke Chunar controversy: 'Didn't understand Hindi words'

Director Prem, a still from Sarke Chunar song

The director of KD: The Devil, Prem, has addressed the backlash and controversy surrounding the song Sarke Chunar from the film. He revealed that while he wrote the Kannada lyrics of the song, he didn't fully understand the Hindi version. He also stated how at a time when important issues like the Iran-Israel-US war and LPG shortage, there's no need to turn song into a controversy.

Prem breaks his silence on Sarke Chunar row

During an interview with Hindustan Times, Prem reacted to speculation that the outrage and controversy were a publicity stunt for the film. He dismissed the claim, saying, "I don't want any controversy. Mine is an emotional film, and the song is meant to be something people dance to at parties. It's been well received in Karnataka and Kerala. Why would I want controversy?"

Further talking about the lyrics of the song, Prem explains that while he wrote the original Kannada lyrics, the Hindi version was translated by lyricist Raqueeb Alam. He confessed that he was unaware of the specific words that later drew criticism. "Everything went smoothly with the Kannada original. I didn't understand the Hindi words used in translation, as I am not fluent in the language. I come from a village where phrases like ‘neeche mat gira, uthao' are part of everyday speech, it's Janapada," he shared.

The filmmaker says the contentious lines have now been changed and the updated version will be sent to the Censor Board soon. He also expressed regret, saying, "If anyone is hurt, I am very sorry. Our big film faced a small lyrics issue, but it has been blown out of proportion. There are so many larger problems in the world, war hai, LPG gas ki problem hai toh kyun ek gaane pe itni badi controversy kar di?"

About the Sarke Chunar controversy

The song Sarke Chunar Teri Sarke, featuring Sanjay Dutt and Nora Fatehi, sparked a controversy for its objectionable lyrics and choreography. The backlash led to the removal of the song from YouTube and other streaming platforms. It even backfired as a reported fatwa was issued against Nora.

On the other hand, the National Commission for Women had also issued summons to Nora and Sanjay in connection with the controversy by taking a suo motu cognisance of the issue. Meanwhile, Nora Fatehi addressed the row, saying she had no idea about the Hindi version and had not allowed permission for her image to be used in it.