Shah Rukh Khan’s 'King' Gets New Music Team as Anirudh Steps Away

Shah Rukh Khan’s upcoming film 'King' has a new musical line-up, with composer Anirudh Ravichander reportedly stepping away from the project due to scheduling commitments. Composer duo Sachin-Jigar will now handle the film’s songs and background score, although Anirudh’s contribution will remain part of the film through a theme track he has reportedly created for the superstar.

According to a report by Bollywood Hungama, Anirudh and the film’s makers mutually agreed to part ways after his commitments in the South made it difficult for him to devote sufficient time to the project.

With Shah Rukh Khan and director Siddharth Anand keen to release King in cinemas this Christmas without delays, the makers reportedly decided to bring in Sachin-Jigar to take charge of the music.

Anirudh Gives Shah Rukh Khan a Theme Track

Despite his exit, Anirudh is said to have composed a theme track for King as a mark of respect for Shah Rukh Khan. The track will remain part of the film, while Sachin-Jigar will reportedly rework it for the background score.

A source quoted by Bollywood Hungama said Anirudh had been juggling several commitments in the South, leaving him with limited time for a film of this scale.

The composer is also reportedly preparing for his wedding to Sunrisers Hyderabad CEO Kavya Maran, which is said to be scheduled for November.

Sachin-Jigar’s Tu Mil Jaaye Marks King’s Musical Debut

The change in the music team comes just as King has begun unveiling its soundtrack. Shah Rukh Khan marked his birthday on November 2 with the midnight release of Tu Mil Jaaye, the film’s first song, featuring him alongside Deepika Padukone.

Composed by Sachin-Jigar, the romantic track features vocals by Arijit Singh and Madhubanti Bagchi, along with an English rap by Ed Sheeran.

The song has received mixed reactions from listeners. While Arijit’s vocals, the melody and the chemistry between Shah Rukh and Deepika have drawn praise, some have questioned its familiar sound, visuals, editing and styling. Sheeran’s rap has also sparked comparisons with songs from Siddharth Anand’s earlier films, including Pathaan.

Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone Reunite for King

King marks another on-screen collaboration between Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, who have previously worked together in films such as Om Shanti Om, Chennai Express, Happy New Year and Pathaan.

The film also reunites Shah Rukh with director Siddharth Anand after Pathaan. Produced by Red Chillies Entertainment and Marflix Pictures, King features Suhana Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Jaideep Ahlawat and Raghav Juyal in key roles.

The film is scheduled for a worldwide theatrical release on December 24.