Unamused: Ayushmann Khurrana covers 'Kahani Suno,' upsetting Kaifi Khalil fans

A recent video of Ayushmann Khurrana has caused a bit of a stir on the internet. The Vicky Donor star was seen singing Kahani Suno, by Pakistan’s favourite indie singer, Kaifi Khalil. He seemed to be hitting every note perfectly, and one would think that fans would appreciate the song going global. Apparently, they did not.  

Khalil's fans were not ecstatic about the ordeal. In fact, they took to social media platforms to express their distaste - and it wasn’t because Khurrana did not do the song justice. One Instagram user wrote, "Please Indians, stop destroying this song. First Jubin and now Ayushmann. Let it be sung by Khalil only. Thank you." Another stated, "Khalil's voice has no replacement."

Khalil initially released the song on YouTube in May of 2022, and the song seemed to find immediate resonance amongst music lovers. In the 11 months since its release, it has garnered 222 million views. The song has become quite widespread, with comparisons being drawn to Atif Aslam's hit tracks as well. Kahani Suno seemed to have earned Khalil the unofficial title of the best emerging artist of 2022.  
 
Khurrana, an Indian actor and singer, is known for his soulful voice in songs such as Pani Da Rang and Nazm Nazm. Taking a liking to the song, he performed his rendition, and while there was criticism, he was also met with some appreciation. One social media user stated, "He's not bad for an untrained singer. Don't be too harsh. Let people enjoy music, sing and be happy. Let them be."

An artist covering another song is not a rare occurrence. In fact, it is a popular tradition, with other examples including Farhan Saeed’s cover of Yeh Jo Halka Halka Suroor Hai, and covers of Ali Sethi and Shae Gill's viral phenomenon Pasoori all over the globe.

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