From ‘Sarke Chunar’ to ‘DK Bose’: Hindi songs that sparked outrage over lyrics

The recently released track “Sarke Chunar” from the Kannada film “KD – The Devil” has triggered debate over its explicit wording, but controversies around Hindi film songs are nothing new. Over the decades, several tracks have faced criticism, protests, or even bans for suggestive or double-meaning lyrics. Here’s a look at some notable examples:

“Tateeree”
Rapper Badshah’s recent release was pulled down after listeners objected to lyrics they felt demeaned women. The artist later issued an apology, stating no offence was intended.

“Fevicol Se” (2012)
Featured in Dabangg 2 and performed by Kareena Kapoor Khan, this item song drew flak for its overtly suggestive lines. Sung by Mamta Sharma and composed by Sajid-Wajid, it remains widely discussed for its portrayal of women.

“Munni Badnaam Hui” (2010)

A chartbuster from Dabangg starring Malaika Arora, the song ran into trouble not just for its lyrics but also for referencing the brand “Zandu Balm,” which led to legal concerns.
“Sheila Ki Jawani” (2010)
Katrina Kaif’s hit number from Tees Maar Khan became popular but also attracted criticism for its suggestive tone, reflecting a phase when item songs dominated Bollywood soundtracks. “Chikni Chameli” (2011)
From Agneepath, this Katrina Kaif dance number faced backlash for objectification. Singer Shreya Ghoshal later expressed discomfort over children dancing to such songs.

“Choli Ke Peeche Kya Hai” (1993)
This Khalnayak track stirred major controversy upon release due to its double entendre lyrics, despite becoming hugely popular.

Interestingly, actor Nora Fatehi said she agreed to “Sarke Chunar” believing it was linked to “Nayak Nahi Khalnayak Hoon Main”, another iconic song from the same film featuring Sanjay Dutt.

“Sexy Sexy Mujhe Log Bole” (1994)
From Khuddar, the word “sexy” sparked protests, forcing makers to replace it with “baby” in the final version.

“Sarkai Lo Khatiya” (1994)
This Govinda-Karisma Kapoor track from Raja Babu was deemed too suggestive and reportedly banned by All India Radio, though it remained popular among audiences.

“Khada Hai” (1994)
From Andaz, the song’s suggestive lyrics and choreography drew criticism, with reports suggesting discomfort among those involved in filming.

“Bhaag DK Bose” (2011)
From Delhi Belly, the cleverly worded title hid a Hindi expletive, leading to outrage even as the song gained widespread popularity.

Across eras, these songs show how Hindi cinema has repeatedly walked the line between mass appeal and controversy—often blurring it.