Pasoori, the sensational song by Ali Sethi and Shae Gill, captivated the hearts of millions when it was released on Coke Studio, becoming the most googled song of 2022. However, recently it found itself in the midst of controversy as Bollywood decided to remake it for the movie SatyaPrem Katha. The public’s reaction to this rendition has been nothing short of interesting, to say the least.

photo by Dawn Images

Amongst the Pakistani audience, the response to the remake leaned more towards the negative side. While some initially felt a sense of pride that the song had reached such heights that it caught the attention of Bollywood filmmakers, the release of the remake shattered that initial excitement. The essence and originality of the song seemed to have been stripped away, leaving behind a mere “item song” agenda. Disillusioned, even those who were initially proud took to social media platforms to express their disappointment and criticize the remake.

 

photo by The Express Tribune

 

Despite the angelic voice of Arijit Singh, who can make anything sound melodious, the song failed to tug at the heartstrings like the original did. The original Pasoori, with its soulful rendition by Ali Sethi and Shae Gill, had the power to mesmerize audiences in every setting, from concerts to intimate gatherings. The duo truly captivated the world with their vocal prowess.

photo by Fashion Collection Pakistan

Sheema Kirmani, a renowned dancer and social activist who featured in the original music video, stands against the trend of remaking songs, firmly believing that originals should remain untouched. On the other hand, Shae Gill, one of the original artists, urged her fans not to spread hatred and to view music as an artistic form of expression.

photo by Aaj English TV

Pasoori was undeniably one of the mega-hit songs of its time, showcasing the remarkable talent of Ali Sethi, an established singer and artist, while also introducing the world to the captivating voice of Shae Gill.

 

Music has always transcended boundaries, connecting people from different cultures and backgrounds. However, the question remains: Was this remake truly worth it? The clash between originality and adaptation raises an ongoing debate within the music industry. While remakes can introduce a song to a wider audience, they often struggle to capture the essence and magic of the original, leaving fans disappointed and longing for the authenticity they fell in love with.

 

In the end, whether the controversy surrounding the Pasoori remake subsides or lingers, one thing is certain: Music will continue to evolve and inspire. While remakes may serve as tributes or adaptations, it is vital to appreciate and preserve the artistry of the original compositions that touched our souls. Only then can we truly appreciate the power of music in its purest form.