'Disrespect to music': Bushra Ansari slams Chahat Fateh Ali Khan’s viral hits

Senior actress called out viral culture and overnight stardom; declared viral music 'exploitation of classic songs'

Veteran Pakistani actress Bushra Ansari has expressed her disappointment over the viral fame of social media personality Chahat Fateh Ali Khan, criticising the trend for disrespecting music.

Speaking on the comedy show Hansna Mana Hai with comedian Tabish Hashmi, Ansari voiced her concerns about Pakistan’s growing viral culture, where individuals like Chahat Fateh Ali Khan gain overnight stardom.

Chahat became famous for singing past popular songs in an offbeat style, with his rendition of Madam Noor Jehan's Badobadi becoming a viral hit.

"I am disheartened by how such content goes viral. I don’t understand this viral trend and the mindset behind it," Ansari noted.

She further lamented the state of Pakistan’s music, saying, "It hurts me to see the open disrespect for music. The exploitation of classic songs like this is unbearable for me."

Chahat Fateh Ali Khan’s viral fame has sparked a debate in Pakistan's entertainment industry, with several artists voicing their concerns over the influence of viral trends on the country’s music and culture.

Earlier this year, Khan, a self-proclaimed singer famous for his off-tune songs on social media, had his viral hit 'Bado Badi' deleted from YouTube once again.

The song, which he uploaded on his official YouTube channel during Eid al-Fitr, garnered 28 million views and went viral in both Pakistan and India.

However, YouTube initially took it down due to copyright issues, causing disappointment for him but relief for many prominent Pakistani musicians, anchors, YouTubers, and social media users who celebrated its removal.

Recently, he announced in a video on his YouTube channel that the copyright strike on 'Bado Badi' had been removed, and the song was reinstated.

Chahat Fateh Ali Khan expressed frustration and confusion over why well-known singers, anchors, and YouTubers oppose him.

"I have worked hard for eight years to gain fame and earn my livelihood," he said. "I have invested my own money in my songs without any sponsorship."

He vowed to continue his singing career despite opposition, stating, "To those who want me to quit singing, I say more songs are coming, and I will keep singing."

He also highlighted his unique appeal, claiming he entertains both children and adults with his performances.

"I am the only singer with young fans," he added.

In response to critics, he warned, "If singers, anchors, YouTubers, and models continue to speak against me, I will take them to court. I always stand by my word."

Moreover, Chahat Fateh Ali Khan was served with a legal notice demanding Rs180 million in damages for defaming legendary musician Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

The notice was issued by Mian Muhammad Umair Niaz on behalf of Qaiser Munir Khan and sent to Chahat's residence in the UK.

The notice states that if Chahat fails to respond within 15 days, a defamation lawsuit will be filed in court, Express News reported.

Chahat is accused of tarnishing the name of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, offending the people of Faisalabad, and violating the Copyright Act.

The notice claims Chahat falsely portrayed himself as a relative of the late musician and damaged Nusrat's legacy through his singing.

"Chahat's singing has angered the people of Faisalabad," the notice adds.

The legal notice demands a public apology on social media from Chahat. If he fails to respond or apologise within the 15-day period, legal action and a defamation suit for Rs180 million will be pursued.