Anand Raaj Anand on Nepotism: Talent Matters Most

Veteran singer, composer, and lyricist Anand Raaj Anand has shared his views on the ongoing nepotism debate, offering a different perspective on how the music industry works. While conversations around star kids continue to dominate Bollywood, Anand believes that talent—not connections—ultimately determines success in music.

The celebrated musician, known for several timeless hits, says parental support is completely natural. However, he insists that only genuine talent can build a lasting career.

Music Is Different From Bollywood Films

According to Anand, the music industry operates very differently from the film industry. While actors’ children often follow their parents into cinema, musicians still have to prove themselves through their work.

“If parents recognize genuine talent in their children, they have every right to support them,” he said.

His powerful statement, “Aulad ke liye faulad banna baap ka duty hai” (It’s a father’s duty to be strong for his children), perfectly sums up his belief.

Moreover, Anand says music leaves little room for shortcuts. In the end, listeners remember a great song—not the surname behind it.

His Children Are Following Their Own Dreams

Interestingly, Anand’s own family reflects the values he speaks about.

His younger daughter is pursuing singing, while his son plans to launch his own music label. Instead of becoming a composer, his son wants to focus on the business side of music.

“My son tells me to stay focused on composing while he builds the label,” Anand revealed.

As a result, Anand believes both his children are finding their own place in the industry while using their individual strengths.

Social Media Has Changed the Rules

Meanwhile, Anand admits that the music industry has transformed dramatically.

When songs like “Dil De Diya Hai” became massive hits, artists depended on television, radio, and word-of-mouth. Today, however, social media plays a huge role in building visibility.

“If you’re not visible online, people may simply forget you,” he said.

Still, Anand believes visibility alone isn’t enough.

Content Matters More Than Visibility

Instead of saying, “Jo dikhta hai woh bikta hai,” Anand prefers a different approach.

“Jo dikhta hai woh tikta hai, aur jo tikta hai woh bikta hai.”

In other words, getting noticed is important. However, staying relevant requires strong content. Only meaningful songs can stand the test of time.

Movie Theatres Became His Classroom

Long before entering Bollywood, Anand found inspiration inside cinema halls.

He often skipped school to watch films and carefully observed audience reactions during songs.

He noticed exactly when people stayed seated and when they walked out.

Those observations became his biggest lessons. From then on, he made it his mission to create songs that audiences would never want to miss.

A Journey Built Without Connections

Unlike many in Bollywood, Anand entered Mumbai without industry contacts.

Therefore, he decided to do everything himself—writing lyrics, composing music, and singing.

Looking back, he says fear became his greatest teacher.

Rather than giving up, he kept learning, improving, and creating. Eventually, persistence and a bit of luck helped him build a successful career.

He Still Admires Today’s Songwriters

Even after decades in the industry, Anand continues to appreciate modern lyricists.

He praised Jaani, Kumaar, Irshad Kamil, and Amitabh Bhattacharya for their exceptional writing.

Furthermore, he revealed that he no longer wants to write every song himself. Instead, he looks forward to collaborating with talented lyricists on future projects.

“My Best Is Yet to Come”

Finally, Anand believes his journey is far from over.

As fans rediscover his music through streaming platforms and social media, he feels inspired to create even better work.

With confidence, he says, “Abhi mera maza baaki hai” (My best time is still coming).

For Anand Raaj Anand, the past may be memorable—but he believes the most exciting chapter of his musical career is still ahead.