Bollywood Recycles Pakistani Hit Without Credit
Bollywood has once again come under criticism for reproducing a popular Pakistani song without permission or acknowledgement. The song in question is “Bol Kaffara“, originally composed for a Pakistani television drama. The track, set in the traditional qawwali style, gained widespread popularity in both Pakistan and India when it was first released.
In its latest form, Indian playback singer Neha Kakkar has performed the song for the film Ek Diwane Ki Deewaniyat, starring Sonam Bajwa and Harshvardhan Rane. However, no credit was given to the original Pakistani creators.
This is not the first time Bollywood has borrowed the same track. Previously, singer Jubin Nautiyal re-recorded “Bol Kaffara” for an Indian audience, also without recognition of its origins.
The Song’s Origins and Popularity
“Bol Kaffara” was first introduced as the official soundtrack (OST) of the Pakistani drama Parlour Wali Larki. The composition blends qawwali rhythms with contemporary arrangements, making it stand out among drama soundtracks. Its heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery resonated strongly with audiences across South Asia.
The song quickly went viral on streaming platforms and social media, amassing millions of views on YouTube. Its popularity transcended borders, attracting fans in both Pakistan and India, where qawwali has deep cultural roots.
Social Media Reaction: Accusations of Cultural Theft
The release of Neha Kakkar’s version has sparked strong criticism online. On platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, users accused Bollywood of cultural theft and exploiting Pakistani creativity without offering due credit.
One user wrote, “Bollywood needs to respect intellectual property. Pakistani artists deserve recognition for their work.” Another commented, “This is the second time the same song has been lifted. Isn’t one theft enough?”
The criticism reflects broader frustrations that Indian cinema often borrows from Pakistani music while sidelining the original creators.
Broader Debate on Copyright and Recognition
The controversy highlights a recurring issue in South Asia’s entertainment industries: the lack of enforcement of copyright laws across borders. While both India and Pakistan have vibrant music traditions, political tensions and weak intellectual property agreements often prevent proper recognition.
Music plagiarism is not new to Bollywood. Over the years, the industry has faced multiple allegations of reproducing songs from Pakistan, the Middle East, and even Western artists. Critics argue that this practice not only undermines originality but also discourages collaboration between artists across borders.
Call for Fairness and Collaboration
Many fans and industry observers believe this controversy should serve as a wake-up call. They argue that Bollywood, with its global reach, has a responsibility to acknowledge the contributions of regional artists. Proper licensing, royalties, and credit could not only prevent disputes but also foster healthier cultural exchange between the two countries.
Some voices on social media have even suggested that Pakistani musicians should pursue legal action or push for stronger regional copyright protections. Others, however, see the viral debate as proof of the enduring influence of Pakistani music, which continues to inspire audiences far beyond its borders.
A Reflection of Shared Musical Heritage
Despite the criticism, the popularity of “Bol Kaffara” in India shows how music often transcends political boundaries. Qawwali, with its devotional roots and rich tradition, has long been cherished across South Asia. The controversy therefore reflects both the tensions and the deep cultural connections between neighboring countries.
As one commentator put it online, “If Bollywood loves Pakistani music so much, it should collaborate with Pakistani artists instead of stealing from them.”
