'Akhiyaan De Kol’ remake gets criticized for disrespecting original

The recent release of 'Akhiyaan De Kol', a remake of legendary Pakistani singer Reshma's classic, has sparked intense reactions across the entertainment industry. The song, featured in the upcoming Bollywood film 'Do Patti', has garnered attention for its controversial treatment of the original song.

Originally sung by Reshma and written by Sehrai Gurdas Puri, Shilpa Rao delivers the vocals in this new version, with lyrics penned by Kausar Munir. The music video, featuring Kriti Sanon, has drawn comparisons to typical Bollywood item numbers for its flashy and provocative style.

Although the music company acquired the rights to the song from EMI Pakistan, several prominent Pakistani celebrities feel that Bollywood has disrespected the essence and cultural legacy of the original.

Pakistani actor Adnan Siddiqui expressed his disapproval on Instagram, stating, "Imitation can be flattering, but not when it means tearing apart a classic by a legend. Please show some respect for Reshma Jee and the legacy she left behind. Her music deserves to be treated with the dignity it commands, not reduced to just another sordid ripoff."

Adnan Siddiqui's TweetScreenshot from X

Actress Mishi Khan echoed these sentiments on her Instagram, saying, "Shame on them for shooting a legendary song in such a crass manner."

Mishi Khan's criticism Screenshot from Instagram

The remake has drawn a mix of appreciation and backlash from audiences. While Bollywood fans appreciate Shilpa Rao’s vocals, many criticize the choreography for its lack of originality.

Indian fans criticizes the song's choreographyScreenshot Instagram

Bollywood has a history of adapting Reshma’s songs and music, including a version of this song, which was part of Raj Kapoor’s Bobby as Lata Mangeshkar's ‘Ankhyon Ko Rehne De Ankhyon Ke Aas Pass. Director Subhash Ghai featured her voice in the film Hero, which included one of her most famous songs, 'Lambi Judai'.

In 2004, her song 'Ashkan Di Gali Vich Mukaam De Gaya', was used in the Bollywood film Woh Tera Naam Tha, marking her last cross-border collaboration before her passing in 2013. However, many Pakistani singers continue to cover her songs without disrespecting the original.

The controversy has sparked thousands of comments on social media, with users expressing diverse opinions about the treatment of the legendary song. As the debate over the remake rages on, it underscores the delicate balance between creative adaptation and cultural preservation