Bollywood loyalists are sure to feel gutted as they browse through their Spotify playlists starting today, courtesy of the streaming giant’s new decision: removal of some of India’s biggest blockbusters, after reportedly being unable to renew an agreement with the owners (of the tracks).

In a statement previously released by Spotify to Billboard, the streaming giant stated: “Throughout these negotiations, Spotify has tried to find creative ways to strike a deal with Zee Music and will continue our good faith negotiations in hopes of finding a mutually agreeable solution soon.” Zee Entertainment Enterprises has yet to comment on the new developments.

Soundtracks like Malhari from Bajirao Mastani, Kala Chashma from Baar Baar Dekho, Namo Namo from Kedarnath, and Apna Banaa Le from Bhediya are no longer available for streaming on Spotify.

Needless to say, Twitterati is far from amused by how things have progressed, and here’s how they’ve reacted :

History repeats itself for Zee Music, as a similar incident occurred in 2022, where the licensing agreement with Gaana failed to materialize. Up until March, popular tracks like Maiyya Mainu from Jersey, Makhna from Drive, and Zaalima from Raaes were constants on the top 200 daily streaming songs lists on the platform. Additionally, it is now speculated that a volley of songs from its sister company, Zee Studios— gems from Gully Boy and Veere Di Wedding among many others—will soon be unavailable.

While many may resort to YouTube for time being, experts have predicted a surge in user traffic on rival apps like Apple Music and Jio Saavn.

Lead Image: Eros International