AR Rahman Agrees to Credit Dhrupad Masters in 'Veera Raja Veera' Song After Court Order

Mumbai. World-renowned musician AR Rahman has agreed to add the names of Indian classical music maestros 'Junior Dagar Brothers' to the popular song 'Veera Raja Veera' from the film 'Ponniyin Selvan-II'. Following the order and suggestion of the Indian Supreme Court, Rahman decided to acknowledge the contribution of musicians from the Dagar tradition in the official credit list of the song.

The bench, led by Chief Justice Suryakant, has directed Rahman and the film producers to place the revised credit details on all social media and OTT platforms within the next five weeks.

This dispute began in 2023 when Ustad Faiyaz Wasifuddin Dagar claimed that his family's ancestral Dhrupad composition 'Shiva Stuti' was used in Rahman's song without permission. He alleged that the rhythm, melody, and sentiment of the song were identical to the original tune recorded by his father, Ustad Nasir Faiyazuddin Dagar, and uncle, Ustad Nasir Zahiruddin Dagar.

Initially, Rahman and the filmmakers claimed the music was their original and independent creation, but they relented after the court insisted on respecting the heritage of classical music.

Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, arguing for Rahman, clarified in court that this agreement was made only 'without prejudice' and would not affect other aspects of the main copyright case. The court also stated that the Dagarwani Dhrupad tradition is a priceless stream of Indian classical music and its uniqueness must be recognized.