Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Mar 28: Music composer Amaal Mallik has shed light on the imbalance in royalty distribution within the Indian music industry, revealing how creators often receive only a small share despite a song’s massive success.

Speaking in a recent interview, Mallik explained that the master rights of a song typically remain with the music label, while singers, composers and lyricists earn limited revenue through publishing rights. He noted that although a royalty system was formally implemented in India in 2020, much of the financial control still lies with labels.

Mallik credited veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar for his long-standing efforts in pushing for fair royalty rights for creators. He also pointed out a common misconception in the industry that actors alone drive a song’s success.

“An actor being featured in a song contributes only partially to its popularity. The real creative force includes the lyricist, composer, director and singer,” he said, emphasising that these contributors form the core pillars of any musical work.

Highlighting the disparity, Mallik revealed that he was paid between Rs 75,000 and Rs 1.5 lakh for composing the popular track Sooraj Dooba Hain from the film Roy, starring Ranbir Kapoor. The song, however, has reportedly generated nearly Rs 100 crore in royalties over the years.

He further noted that, unlike in Western music industries where even music producers are entitled to rights, Indian producers often do not receive a share, underlining the need for broader structural reforms.

Mallik’s remarks have once again sparked conversation around fair compensation and recognition for creative professionals in India’s music ecosystem.