Amaal Mallik Opens Up On His One-Year Break From Film Music, Says ‘I Got Tired of Proving My Worth’

Composer and singer Amaal Mallik has opened up about his decision to step away from the film music industry for a year, citing his physical and mental health, as well as his experiences within the Hindi film-music ecosystem.

Mallik recently announced his break from film music, following the release of Yeh Awarapan from Awarapan 2. In a recent conversation with The Times of India, he explained that the decision came after years of feeling that his contribution and creative value were not being adequately recognised.

“I’ve been tired of showing film music my worth,” Mallik said, adding that artists expect self-worth and appreciation for their work. He also argued that music in India is often treated as a subset of the film industry, rather than as an independent creative industry.

Mallik also reflected on an earlier break in 2019, which he said followed a personal loss and the end of a seven-year relationship. He recalled working on Kabir Singh during that period and alleged that the blueprint he had created for its soundtrack was subsequently used by other composers. He said he chose not to speak about the episode at the time because of the emotional circumstances he was dealing with.

Amaal Mallik on lost film opportunities

The composer claimed that he has been removed from around 60 films, while he personally declined 15–20 projects. He linked some of these decisions to his stance on remixes and his preference for original music.

Mallik said he follows a principle of accepting a remix only when an original song has already been locked, rather than making a remix a condition for securing an original composition. He cited declining remix opportunities involving songs such as Aashiq Banaya Aapne and Masakali.

According to Mallik, these creative and professional choices have sometimes affected his opportunities in the film industry. He said he wants younger composers to understand the importance of protecting their rights and carefully considering contracts.

‘Yeh Awarapan’ brought renewed confidence

The response to Yeh Awarapan, the title track from Awarapan 2, has also marked a significant moment for Mallik. He said the song helped restore his confidence and generated renewed interest from filmmakers.

Mallik revealed that following the track’s release, he received offers for 15 films, of which he has signed three. He chose not to disclose details about the projects at this stage.

Mallik on credits and recognition

Mallik has also spoken publicly about the importance of proper credits for composers and lyricists. He recalled raising an issue after a social media post celebrating 11 years of Hero did not mention him as the composer of Main Hoon Hero Tera or lyricist Kumaar.

He clarified that his concern was about recognition for the creators behind the song, rather than directed at Salman Khan. Mallik said the issue subsequently prompted several labels to add appropriate credits.

His latest comments come amid his broader criticism of how composers and music creators are treated within the Hindi film industry. In an earlier statement, Mallik had also claimed that industry politics had contributed to him missing out on more than 60 projects between 2019 and 2026.

Meanwhile, his father Daboo Malik has publicly backed his decision to step away, saying that his priority is Amaal’s health and wellbeing and that he will support his son even if he chooses not to make music in the future.