Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar has raised objections over the title of the upcoming sequel Chandni Bar Returns, claiming the makers used it without his permission and escalating the matter to the Indian Motion Picture Producers’ Association (IMPPA). The 2001 cult classic, starring Tabu, earned multiple National Awards and established Bhandarkar as a prominent director in Bollywood.
IMPPA, in a letter to producer Sandeep Singh and his banner, highlighted that Chandni Bar is a registered property of Bhandarkar Entertainment. The association warned that any use of the title without prior approval is unauthorised and could attract legal action, advising the producers to stop using it immediately.
In response, Sandeep Singh and Legend Studios clarified that they had acquired all legal rights and trademark clearances from the legitimate owners of the original film, R. Mohan and the late Lata Mohan Iyer. The studio presented the official Government of India Trademark Registry certificate, showing the title registered under Class 41 with the original producers. Co-producer Vishal Gurnani confirmed that Legend Studios holds the option rights from the rightful successors of the original film and that no other banner can legally produce the sequel.
Chandni Bar Returns, directed by Ajay Bahl, is scheduled for a worldwide release on December 3, 2026. The sequel continues the legacy of the original, which depicted the challenging lives of Mumbai bar dancers and became an instant cult classic. With both parties standing firm on their legal positions, the title dispute has sparked significant attention in the film industry.
This sequel is set to bring back the essence of the original while navigating the high-profile controversy surrounding its name.