After a seven-year break, Pakistani singer-musician Atif Aslam is returning to Bollywood with a song in the upcoming movie Love Story of 90’S (LSO’90). Director Amit Kasaria provided insights into securing Atif Aslam’s involvement when the Indian government lifted its ban on Pakistani artists in October 2023.
LSO’90, according to Kasaria, is a conventional family drama reminiscent of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, aiming to evoke nostalgia and heartfelt emotions. Despite anticipating potential backlash, Kasaria felt compelled to take the initiative in bringing love to the forefront. He was aware that he would probably come under fire, but he was passionate about doing it.
Director Amit Kasaria talks on Atif Aslam’s return to Bollywood in LSO’90s
In an exclusive interview, the director said that after searching for a standout song for the movie, they decided that Atif Aslam would be the best fit for the romantic duet. He continued, “It’s about this man who yearns for a simple, innocent life and desires to experience love.”
As per Kasaria’s statement, Aslam would not have pursued their collaboration if he hadn’t connected with the concept. “I emailed him to say that it is a friendship issue between the two nations. Atif conducted his investigation. He must have thought the song was good since he spoke to me. I informed him that I didn’t have much time left to shoot,” Kasaria said.
He continued saying, “Atif flew all the way to another city to record the song despite being unwell. It was a beautiful gesture.” The song, composed by music director Rahul Nair, features lead actors Adhyayan Suman and Divita Rai, and was filmed in the picturesque setting of Shimla.
Atif Aslam’s latest venture into Bollywood constitutes his first artistic input since earlier songs featured in notable films such as Hum Chaar and Namaste England were highly esteemed by audiences alike. Furthermore, his return signals significant strides made towards overcoming prohibitives enforced by India on Pakistani artists including actors and musicians – barriers carrying over onto lyricists or technicians involved behind-the-scenes.