Salman Khan’s Disapproval of Kaanta Laga Sparks Controversy

In a candid conversation, filmmakers Radhika Rao and Vinay Sapru opened up about the backlash they faced for their controversial music video Kaanta Laga, which featured Shefali Zariwala in a provocative thong and adult-themed visuals. The song, a remix hit, stirred a storm and drew both public attention and criticism.

While Kaanta Laga became a popular tune, it faced scrutiny from many quarters, including the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), which condemned it for potentially harming the moral fabric of society. In addition to institutional criticism, the filmmakers also received a personal call from Bollywood’s biggest star at the time—Salman Khan.

Salman Khan's Concern

According to Vinay Sapru, Salman Khan took the filmmakers aside and advised them to reconsider making such "sexy" content. During an intimate conversation at Khan's home, the actor conveyed his thoughts on the video’s sexual undertones. Vinay recalled Salman saying, "Main tumhe samjha raha hoon, yeh jo sexy kaam hai, kam kiya karo, acha nahi hota (I'm trying to explain, don’t make such sexy songs, they don’t look good). You both have nice, pure minds."

A Creative Turning Point

The duo explained how their shift towards bold visuals came at a creative crossroads. They were known for producing innocent and sweet songs with artists like Falguni Pathak, Jagjit Singh, and Pankaj Udhas. However, as they sought to break free from the monotony of their earlier work, they ventured into remix culture. This creative change was sparked during a visit to Salman Khan’s house, where the actor was listening to a remix of a Kishore Kumar song. This moment inspired them to experiment, leading to iconic hits like Kaliyon Ka Chaman and Kaanta Laga, songs that blended sensuality with catchy beats, giving rise to India’s remix era.

Current Projects and Future Plans

Despite the controversies surrounding Kaanta Laga, Radhika and Vinay have continued to evolve as filmmakers. Their recent project, a re-release of Sanam Teri Kasam, was well-received, and now they are working on a sequel to the film. However, they have made it clear that Pakistani actor Mawra Hocane will not be part of the cast due to ongoing political tensions between India and Pakistan.

Salman Khan's advice may have been grounded in concern, but it also marked a pivotal moment in the filmmakers' journey toward bold experimentation in Indian music videos, leaving an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.