Lyricist-poet AM Turaj, who has been working with Sanjay Leela Bhansali for years, has given many wonderful songs. The lyricist has counted himself among the veteran artists by writing popular songs like Padmaavat’s song Khalibali, Binte Dil, Heeramandi’s song Azadi, Tilsmi Baahen. But even after doing great work, AM Turaj did not get that recognition in the industry. In a special conversation with Live Hindustan, he talked about the status of lyricists in the industry. The lyricist also told how actors are paid fees in crores and they are not even counted in thousands.
Our question: Do lyricists get fair wages and work? Your opinion on the status of lyricists in the film industry?
AM Turaj Answer-no way! Only the actors who appear on the screen get recognition. I get less work so I am fighting this battle. Writers and lyricists have less respect in the industry. They are not given a platform. No one calls creators like us. When it comes to promotion, only actors are called. Why are the people who are going to see them on screen shown in promotions again and again? How to tell the actor how a scene or song was prepared? No one to talk about in the background. People who work hard should be among the public. The actor is being thrown into every vegetable like a potato. Actors are paid fees in crores. Us in thousands.
Our question – Who should come forward to give recognition to lyricists and get them their rightful income?
AM Turaj Answer- The writer is his own pain. Actors should take initiative to give them recognition. They should come forward and bring forward working artists. Publishers and film makers should come forward. Writers are not getting respect and that is why there is a lack of good content. Movies of big superstars are flopping.
