Aishwarya Rai Nigam
Music has no borders. There is no rivalry when it comes to music and art. That’s why ‘Pasoori-a Pakistani pop song’ became a smashing hit in Pakistan as well as in India last year. It is sixth song of season-14 (episode two) of Coke Studio, Pakistan. ‘Pasoori’ is a Punjabi word that roughly translates to ‘a complicated mess’. The song blends elements of both raga and reggae, aiming to represent Punjabi culture. Right now, the song is trending once again due to its Bollywood remake. Bollywood is remaking a Pakistani hit song to boost its own movies. Titled ‘Pasoori Nu’, the remake features in the upcoming Bollywood film, starring actors Kartik Aaryan and Kiara Advani in ‘Satyaprem Ki Katha’.
Indian and Pakistani entertainment industry have always been dependent on each other. Indian music industry has always had Pakistani singers. In Pakistan, Indian movies are far more famous than Pakistani movies. Music can transcend boundaries. In the era of digital media and with large digital presence of audience on social media, the listeners can witness how smoothly soulful music finds a place in hearts of music lovers without physically crossing the geographical boundaries.
While the relationship between India and Pakistan has been characterized by tensions and conflicts, music has played a significant role in bridging the divide and bringing people together. India and Pakistan share a rich cultural heritage, including music traditions such as Hindustani classical music, qawwali, and ghazals. These musical forms have deep roots in both countries and have been appreciated and celebrated by people on both sides of the border. By showcasing their shared musical traditions, artists from India and Pakistan have been able to foster a sense of common identity and promote understanding. Bollywood films and music have a massive following in both India and Pakistan. The popularity of Indian films and music in Pakistan and vice versa has created a common cultural thread. People on both sides of the border enjoy the same songs and melodies, and this shared appreciation helps to create a sense of unity and belonging.
Once upon a time, Pakistani Channel ‘Zindagi’ was very popular among the Indians after showcasing various shows like ‘Zindagi Gulzar Hai’, ‘Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam’ But it was scrapped despite its massive popularity. In retaliation, the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) had announced a ban on the Indian channels and banned the screening of Bollywood films from across the nation. The All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA) announced a total ban on Pakistani actors and artists in India in the aftermath of the deadly terror attack in Pulwama.
When people love music and appreciate the art there is no space for animosity and hatred. The debate on whether songs should be remixed and manipulated only to downplay its original essence or not is another question. But the important thing is that art will cross boundaries and the person who appreciates it will never discriminate it on basis of where it originated. Artists and his/her art will triumph even through divides created by some people.
(The writer is student of Post Graduate Diploma in Digital Media Course IIMC, Jammu)
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