Veteran Pakistani actress Bushra Ansari has expressed deep dismay over the viral rise of social media personality Chahat Fateh Ali Khan, criticising the trend for trivialising and disrespecting Pakistan’s musical heritage.
Speaking on the comedy show Hansna Mana Hai with comedian Tabish Hashmi, Ansari voiced her concerns about the nation’s growing viral culture, where individuals like Khan gain instant fame.
Chahat Fateh Ali Khan became an online sensation for his unconventional renditions of classic songs, including a widely mocked version of Madam Noor Jehan’s Bado Badi, which went viral. “I am disheartened by how such content goes viral. I don’t understand this trend and the mindset behind it,” Ansari stated. The Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum actress further lamented the impact on Pakistan’s music industry, adding, “It hurts me to see the open disrespect for music. The exploitation of classic songs like this is unbearable for me.”
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Legal battles and industry backlash as Chahat responds to critics
Chahat Fateh Ali Khan’s viral fame has sparked controversy within Pakistan’s entertainment industry, with many artists expressing concerns over the influence of such trends on the country’s cultural values.
His offbeat rendition of Bado Badi garnered over 28 million views on YouTube before being removed due to copyright violations. While the removal was celebrated by many musicians, anchors, and YouTubers, the video has since been reinstated after a copyright strike was lifted.
Despite the backlash, Khan has vowed to continue his singing career. In a recent video, he defended his work, saying, “I have worked hard for eight years to gain fame and earn my livelihood. I’ve invested my own money in my songs without any sponsorship.” He also warned his critics, saying, “If singers, anchors, YouTubers, and models continue to speak against me, I will take them to court.”
Chahat is also facing legal challenges. He was served with a legal notice demanding Rs180 million in damages for allegedly defaming legendary musician Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. The notice, issued by Qaiser Munir Khan on behalf of Mian Muhammad Umair Niaz, accuses Chahat of falsely portraying himself as a relative of the iconic singer and tarnishing his legacy.
The notice demands a public apology, warning that failure to comply within 15 days will result in a defamation lawsuit.
