New Delhi, Aug. 18 -- With music composer Tanishk Bagchi recently claiming he is yet to receive royalties for his work on Yash Raj Films' musical hit Saiyaara, released over a year ago, experts said the Bollywood royalty debate highlights a gap between what the law intended to protect and what artists ultimately receive.

The Copyright Act provides meaningful safeguards to authors and composers, but legal rights are only as effective as the contracts that implement them. Many musicians, particularly at the beginning of their careers, are inclined to prioritize visibility and association with major banners over negotiating long-term revenue participation. Deals are finalized long before a song becomes a commercial phenomenon.

"The real is...