Music composer Anand Raaj Anand says his return to the Welcome franchise — with a recreated version of his iconic 2007 hit 'Uncha Lamba Kad' featured in Welcome To The Jungle — feels less like a comeback and more like a natural continuation of a journey that never truly paused.

A Song That Became History

In 2007, Anand composed, wrote, and performed 'Uncha Lamba Kad', picturised on Akshay Kumar and Katrina Kaif. Nearly 19 years later, the recreated version features Anand once again, this time alongside singer Rubai. The original track, along with 'Honth Rasiley', went on to become among the most enduring numbers from the franchise.

Anand recalled the circumstances under which those songs were born. 'I still remember receiving an urgent call around midnight from the team behind Welcome. They needed three songs within just 15 days,' he said. 'Those songs eventually became history.'

What the Franchise Means to Him

For Anand, the Welcome name carries a deeply personal resonance. 'The title Welcome itself feels like a signature in my life. It's almost as if people are saying, Anand, you're back. I am overwhelmed by the love I have received. In fact, I am getting much more affection than I had imagined,' he said.

He described the experience of seeing his work embraced by a new generation as 'almost magical.' 'Returning to this franchise feels very special because Welcome has always been associated with some of my most memorable songs. Seeing those songs continue to be loved and now being recreated for a new generation feels almost magical,' he added.

On the 'Comeback' Question

Anand pushed back on the idea that he had ever stepped away from music. 'I don't think I ever went away. I was simply in a creative zone rather than an execution zone. Music never left me, and neither did my passion for it. This phase feels like a natural continuation of my journey,' he said.

He noted the staying power of the original track as particularly gratifying. 'The fact that the song is still being used in reels and continues to resonate with audiences after so many years is incredibly satisfying,' he said, describing the song's longevity as 'a miracle.'

Gratitude for Akshay Kumar and the Team

Anand expressed warm regard for Akshay Kumar and the production team for choosing to revive the number. 'I feel extremely grateful to Akshay Kumar and the entire team for deciding to bring back Uncha Lamba Kad. Their belief in the song and its legacy means a lot to me,' he said.

He attributed the enduring creative chemistry to shared intent. 'Whenever everyone comes together with the intention of creating something entertaining and memorable, magic happens. Seeing Uncha Lamba Kad return in a new avatar while retaining its original flavour brought back so many memories. It felt nostalgic and exciting at the same time,' he said.

With Welcome To The Jungle bringing the franchise back into the spotlight, audiences will be watching to see whether the recreated classic strikes the same chord it did nearly two decades ago.