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Varun Dhawan’s ‘Chunnari Chunnari’ remix divides OGs: Anu Malik defends remake, Abhijeet says, ‘Salman Khan nahi ban sakta’
The recreated version of Chunnari Chunnari from Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai has triggered a heated debate online. While fans remain split over the remix culture in Bollywood, the song’s original creators themselves have landed on opposite sides of the conversation.
Music composer Anu Malik showered praise on Varun Dhawan and the remake, whereas singer Abhijeet Bhattacharya openly criticised the recreated version and compared Varun with Salman Khan.
Related Story: Varun Dhawan’s ‘Chunnari Chunnari’ reboot in Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai sparks backlash, fans demand Bollywood stop remixing classics
Anu Malik Calls Varun a ‘Superstar’
Reacting to the remix, Anu Malik shared an Instagram video expressing excitement over seeing the iconic track return to screens.
He said, “Chunnari Chunnari, Chunnari Chunnari. Guys, itna acha laga bahut dino baad ek superstar, Varun Dhawan ke chehre pe yeh gana dekha.”
Recalling the original success of the song from Biwi No.1, he added, “Earlier, this song was a super hit when it came out with Salman Khan. And Salman Khan took it to a different level.”
The composer further praised Varun’s dance moves and the new presentation of the track.
“And today again, when I saw Varun, I was jumping with joy. What a dance… Pehle bhi gaana super hit tha, aaj bhi super hit aur kal bhi super hit rahega.”
Anu Malik also thanked lyricist Sameer Anjaan and filmmaker David Dhawan while expressing excitement for the film.
Abhijeet Tears Into the Remix
However, the reaction from Abhijeet Bhattacharya was sharply different. During an interview with ANI, the singer dismissed the recreated track and remarked, “When I heard the song, I thought it was a bhajan. Chunnari Chunnari was originally a romantic track, and they have now turned it into a bhajan.”
The playback singer also took a dig at Varun’s film choices and remake-heavy approach.
“The actor (Varun Dhawan) has only done second-hand films… Varun Dhawan iss gaane se Salman Khan nahi ban sakta.”
According to Abhijeet, the original song carried a unique charm that cannot easily be recreated. He revealed that the makers never approached him for the revamped version and admitted he would likely have refused anyway.
“If they had approached me for the remake, I would still have rethought before doing it… I am very happy that I didn’t do the song because it would have been degraded,” he said.
Salman Khan’s Legacy Still Looms Large
Abhijeet also highlighted the cultural impact of the original number, calling it one of Salman Khan’s most iconic songs.
Must Read: Salman Khan is not on my level, I never supported him: Abhijeet Bhattacharya
“Yeh gaana Salman ki life ka biggest song tha… Salman Khan ki life ka sabse bada hit hai ‘Chunnari Chunnari’.”
The recreated track features vocals by IP Singh, Jonita Gandhi, Asees Kaur and Sudhir Yaduvanshi, while the debate around Bollywood remakes continues to dominate social media timelines.
