The upcoming feature film 'The One: Force of the Forest', starring Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia, has run into a major copyright dispute immediately following its promotional launch. Independent vocalist Sargam Vaish publicly accused the filmmakers of incorporating his original track 'Ayi Giri Nandini' into the official trailer without obtaining consent or securing a valid license. Through a video message shared on his social media platform, the artist expressed deep disappointment and presented a firm ultimatum, stating that failure to remove the music will lead to legal action.
Allegations of Unauthorized Music Usage
Sargam Vaish explained that he discovered his creative work in the promotional footage only after viewing the trailer online. He stated that he never granted permission for his music to be utilized for the film or its promotional campaign. The vocalist highlighted that this unauthorized addition creates a sensitive professional challenge for his career, as the exclusive rights to the song were already committed under a formal contract with a major music label.
Impact on Existing Artist Contracts
Elaborating on the fallout, Sargam Vaish emphasized that the unregulated commercial exposure of the track could harm his ongoing contractual standing with his label partners. He argued that the creative output of every artist deserves institutional respect, stressing that someone's hard work cannot simply be appropriated without permission. The singer asked the film's production team to contact him directly and provide proof if they possess any genuine licensing agreement authorizing the composition's usage.
Ultimatum and Potential Court Proceedings
Issuing an uncompromising demand to the production unit, Sargam stated,
My song must be removed from The One immediately.He made it clear that if the team behind 'The One' fails to withdraw the track from promotional materials promptly, his legal counsel will pursue formal litigation in court. Sargam also appealed to listeners and digital audiences to stand behind independent creators who seek protection for their artistic ownership.
Cast, Directors and Production Details
Marking their first cinematic collaboration as a lead pair, Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia headline 'The One: Force of the Forest'. The project is set against the backdrop of dense, mythical, and enigmatic woodlands of Central India, weaving elements deeply rooted in regional Indian folklore. Direction is helmed jointly by Deepak Kumar Mishra, known for 'Panchayat', and Arunabh Kumar. The film is a collaborative venture produced by Balaji Motion Pictures alongside The Viral Fever, with its theatrical debut scheduled for September 25.
