Ila Arun, the voice behind many iconic songs, recently opened up about the controversy surrounding the recreated version of Choli Ke Peeche and how she has made peace with it. Despite not singing for Bollywood in over a decade, her songs remain in demand. Last year, two of her famous tracks, Ghagra and Choli Ke Peeche, were remade for the hit heist film Crew, featuring Kareena Kapoor, Tabu, and Kriti Sanon. While she initially raised concerns over the use of her songs without her consent, she has now moved past it.
The Choli Ke Peeche Controversy
Talking about the recreated version, Ila said, “It was wrong, but I sorted it out with Tips Music myself. Just because AI is accessible now, it doesn’t mean artists should be ignored.” While she wasn’t happy with the way her voice was replaced without permission, she was pleased with the financial outcome. “After Diljit Dosanjh’s version of Choli Ke Peeche, I got so much royalty that I actually want him to pick up more of my songs,” she laughed. Diljit not only sang the song for Crew but also performed it at his Dil-Luminati Tour in India and abroad.
Ila’s Daughter Speaks Up
Her daughter, Ishitta Arun, who is also a singer and actor, recently expressed disappointment over Ila not receiving the kind of opportunities she truly deserved. Speaking on the podcast Cyrus Says, Ishitta mentioned that her mother had much more depth than the songs she got to sing in Bollywood. She believed that Ila’s independent tracks, like Reshma, showcased her talent far better than some of the commercial numbers she recorded.
However, Ila sees things differently. “That’s the daughter in her speaking, not the artist. The industry is commercial. Whatever works, stays. If my sad songs had worked, they would have lasted. I have no complaints. I love my industry. It has given me a lot,” she shared.
Theatre and Artistic Freedom
Though Bollywood doesn’t offer her the kind of work she prefers anymore, Ila finds her true artistic satisfaction in theatre. “The roles I want to do, I get in theatre. That’s where I invest my energy,” she explained. Apart from singing, Ila has built a strong career as an actor. She has worked in multiple films, television shows, and stage productions, proving her versatility across different mediums.
Ila Arun’s Autobiography
Adding another feather to her cap, Ila has now turned author with her autobiography Parde Ke Peechhey. The book gives an insight into her journey in the entertainment world, her struggles, her rise to fame, and her views on the industry. It’s expected to be an interesting read for fans who want to know more about her life beyond the limelight.
Looking Ahead
Despite all the ups and downs, Ila remains positive about her musical journey. She may not be as active in Bollywood playback singing today, but her songs continue to entertain audiences. With the royalties rolling in from Choli Ke Peeche, who knows? Maybe more of her classics will find a new life in today’s music scene.
For now, she’s happy with where she stands. “Music is forever. If my voice is still being heard, that’s all that matters.”
