Don’t like the remake culture: Sheema Kermani says there is no need to redo hit songs like ‘Pasoori’

Dancer and activist also shared how Ali Sethi convinced her to appear in the music video

Renowned dancer Sheema Kermani shared her perspective on the remake of the iconic song Pasoori and expressed her thoughts on the trend of remakes. Speaking with AajTak, she reflected on her experience as part of the original song and disregarded the need for remakes of any song – whether it is a classic or a global hit.

Recalling the shooting of Pasoori, Kermani reminisced, "Shooting for the song was a lot of fun. The preparation of those youths was amazing, and the work was completed with a lot of dedication. The shooting of the song was done in a studio located on a set. The set was grand as well as very beautiful."

Kermani also shared an intriguing story on how Ali Sethi convinced her to dance in his music video for the Coke Studio number. She shared that she initially hesitated to participate, being a staunch advocate of pure classical dance and had reservations about appearing in a music video. However, Sethi, whom she had known since childhood, persistently pursued her.

Kermani explained, "He just got adamant and kept following me for a long time. Ali said that you have to do it. Then he sent music, which was beyond my understanding. That song was in Punjabi, and I liked its tune very much. He also got me talking to the producer and director. When the concept was explained to me, then I agreed."

When asked about the immense popularity of the original song, Kermani admitted that she had no idea that it would resonate with people so much. "No, I had no idea at all that the popularity of this song would skyrocket to such an extent." While she had concerns about its presentation, she now feels proud to have been part of the project. She attributed the song's appeal to its visually appealing nature, stating, "There is definitely a special charm to it. That's probably why people have liked it a lot."

Expressing her views on the remake culture, particularly the Indian remake of Pasoori, Kermani confessed that she hadn't seen it, and hence, cannot offer a specific opinion. However, she has mixed feelings about remakes in general. "The toppers that are popular are remade. First of all, my reaction is that no brother, the original, is the best. The composition is so beautiful, so what is the need to remake it? I don't like remake culture too much."

Reflecting on her personal journey as a dancer and activist, Kermani discussed the challenges she faced given the societal resistance to dance and theater in Pakistan. However, despite the lack of auditoriums and platforms, she is not giving up anytime soon. "As long as I am alive, I will be living in this country, till then I will keep dancing. The struggle is still going on,” she concluded.

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