Mic drop: Why Indian Idol creates superstars and Pakistan Idol struggles

While Indian Idol continues to produce playback superstars, Pakistan Idol remains in a struggle to solidify its place in the market. Is the Indian iteration better? The answer is a resounding "yes." With a lead of 14 seasons, the Indian franchise has matured to a point where contestants arrive with significantly higher confidence levels every year.

So, what is Pakistan Idol getting wrong, and what is its neighbor doing right?

The Scale of the Platform

The raw talent on both sides is equal, but the scale of the platform is not. Mentorship is a crucial element. While mentors Shuja Haider and Tanveer Afridi are doing commendable work on vocals, it will take time to see results. More importantly, contestants need holistic grooming to prevent on-stage mishaps and ensure polished performances.

Production Value and Showmanship

A major hurdle is production quality. Despite running for 16 seasons, Indian Idol remains visually fresh, utilizing GoPros and dynamic angles. Conversely, Pakistan Idol relies on static wide shots, where contestants often perform looking solely at the judges rather than engaging the audience. This lack of connection stems from a lack of confidence, a trait clearly visible in contestants like Rohan Abbas, whose exposure in India gave him superior stage presence.

The Art of Hosting

Indian host Aditya Narayan builds massive anticipation through scripted banter, whereas Pakistani host Shafaat’s attempts often fall flat due to a lack of support from judges. The show lacks the catchy one-liners and high-energy segments that drive viewer engagement in India.

Song Selection and Tributes

Ironically, Indian Idol often celebrates Pakistani legends like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan better than the local show does. Pakistan Idol has missed opportunities to create tribute moments, such as failing to properly honor Nazia Hassan or celebrate Farhan Saeed’s entry. Furthermore, the show struggles to connect with Gen Z, sticking to safe genres rather than pushing contestants to be versatile stars.

The Verdict

Despite these criticisms, Pakistan Idol is a welcome addition to the local music scene. It doesn't need to copy its neighbor blindly, but learning from a show that has been successful for nearly two decades is necessary to take the competition to the next level.