In a recent statement, Abhijeet Sawant, the inaugural winner of Indian Idol, has ignited a debate about the treatment of singers in the Bollywood music industry. Sawant's remarks come amidst Arijit Singh's decision to step back from film singing, adding fuel to the ongoing discussion regarding the conditions and compensation of singers in the industry.

Sawant voiced his concerns on a YouTube channel, asserting that the Bollywood system is structured in a way that prevents singers from attaining a level of fame that surpasses the films they contribute to. He highlighted the issue of limited financial compensation for singers and musicians, emphasizing the lack of royalty payments for film songs, a practice common in Western music industries. He pointed out that even established singers and musicians often do not receive royalties for their work in film music. According to Sawant, this disparity exists because the industry prioritizes the film's success over the recognition and financial well-being of the artists involved.

To illustrate the royalty issue, Sawant referenced Biddu, a music producer who, despite creating only a few songs in the West, earns enough in royalties to sustain himself for life. This comparison underscores the significant difference in how musicians are compensated in different music industries.

Sawant also placed some responsibility on the singers themselves, suggesting that their eagerness for opportunities sometimes leads to exploitation. He noted that many singers prioritize the chance to have their song featured in a film with a prominent star, believing it will lead to future opportunities such as shows and concerts. This desire for exposure, according to Sawant, often leads singers to accept lower payments, as they fear being replaced by someone else willing to work for less. "Singers themselves don't want money, because they just want to sing the song or work with a certain producer. We accept whatever amount we get, because if we don't do it, someone else will. We get exploited a lot".

Sawant's comments shed light on the power dynamics within the Bollywood music industry, where singers often find themselves in a vulnerable position. The lack of royalty payments and the pressure to accept lower compensation contribute to a system where singers are often undervalued and underpaid. This situation raises questions about the sustainability and fairness of the current model, particularly in comparison to Western music industries where royalty payments provide a more stable and equitable income for artists. The conversation sparked by Sawant's statement is likely to continue, with potential implications for the future of singer compensation and recognition in Bollywood.