Bushra Ansari drops truth bombs in new rap song about Indo-Pak tensions

Actress and sister Asma Abbas are seen spitting hilarious verses, cooking away in kitchens on each side of the border

KARACHI: Bushra Ansari has released a peaceful rap anthem amidst burgeoning tensions between Pakistan and India.

The hip-hop song titled Hamsaaye Maa Jaye is a collaborative family effort with sister, Asma Abbas singing the duet, penned by the third sister sister, Neelum Ahmed Bashir.

PHOTO: SCREENGRAB

The Punjabi rap song is arranged like a tappa with references to vernacular poetry and allegories.

Ansari drops colourful truth bombs in a witty fashion that calls attention to the local men and women who are done with the economic, political, cultural, and social upheaval caused by increasing tensions between the two nations.

Ansari plays a Hindu woman from an Indian village who shares a border wall with her Muslim neighbour in Pakistan, portrayed by Asma Abbas. Both are seen spitting catchy rap verses while cooking away in their kitchen.

PHOTO: SCREENGRAB

Here’s a deeper look at the song

Ansari and Abbas are seen lamenting over the poor condition of both their countries; (We share similar everyday problems of food, water, and electricity) (Your kids go hungry and so do mine)

PHOTO: SCREENGRAB

They also hint towards the negative role of TV channels on both sides of the border that often distort facts and mislead the audience.

(I have heard on TV that you are my enemy) (I have also heard that you hate me terribly)

In a fascinating plot twist, the sister-duo exchange their chunnies (cloth worn by women to cover chest and shoulders) when they realise they cannot climb the border wall that’s covered with spiked glass wedges.

PHOTO: SCREENGRAB

They decide to forget all ill towards each other and instead focus on singing and dancing their hearts out to iconic music produced by both the nations. They hope that their voices and peaceful anthem is louder than the sounds of the destruction caused by atomic bombs that both countries possess.

(Let’s just throw the bombs in the fire and dance, whirl twirl smile and giggle)

PHOTO: SCREENGRAB

This is a very clever and shrewd way of celebrating the power of art which has the ability to change perspectives and the potential to unite people across borders, regardless of the race or nationality.

The bigger picture

The veteran actress, singer, and accomplished comedian is one of the many Pakistani artists that have shared their peaceful sentiments amidst the war-mongering politics riling up Indian and Pakistani politicians and a majority of Bollywood artists.

'Baarishein' is just another Atif Aslam song

The large majority of the locals just want their government to provide basic necessities like food and clean water while dancing away to each other’s tunes.


Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.