Daboo Malik reacts to the response he received on his book Never Too Late

With the release of Never Too Late, music director, composer and former actor Daboo Malik returns to the spotlight in a deeply personal way. His new book charts not only his own journey but also that of a multi-generational creative family — including composer-father Sardar Malik, singer-composer brother Anu Malik, and musician sons Amaal and Armaan Malik. “I never expected this response,” admits Daboo. “I’m a first-time writer. It’s not a typical autobiography or storybook. It’s a collective memoir — something very simple but heartfelt.”

Daboo Malik

Reflecting on his acting years, he says, “I began with Swashbuckler (1986) and then did Mahabharata (1988–90), Bhagavad Gita (early 1990s), and Tarantaka (early 1990s). But eventually, I wasn’t getting roles that excited me. I didn’t want to be just another face for 20 years.” He also appeared in films, including Tirangaa (1993), Baazigar (1993), and Beta Ho To Aisa (1994). The turning point in his life came after a transformative meeting with screenwriter Salim Khan. “He told stories from his life that changed mine. That’s when I realised I had something more meaningful to offer.” Despite his family’s musical legacy, Daboo never considered himself a trained musician. “I was a naturalist. But slowly, I started composing. Salim uncle loved a few of my songs, and that gave me the push.” In his career as a composer, he has contributed more than 200 songs to films.

Then the music stopped. Daboo went silent. He confesses he battled depression. “I was in a dark place. I had disappeared from everything — no acting, no music. I wasn’t functioning. I used to just sit in one place. But when I found the light again, I told myself that this is a rebirth.” With his book — which germinated during a dinner table conversation — Daboo wants his sons to know his story, one that he has never spoken about. “My father never wrote his story. I wanted my kids to have something to hold on to. No cribbing. No criticism. Just our journey,” he signs off.

Compositions by Daboo Malik

1999: ‘Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi’ (Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi)
2002: ‘Thoda Sa Pyaar Hua Hai’ (Maine Dil Tujhko Diya)
2002: ‘Tera Chehra’ (Tera Chehra)
2003: ‘Ishq Hota Nahi Sabhi Ke Liye’ (Joggers’ Park)
2009: ‘Kasam Se Tere Naina’ (Kissan)