KARACHI: A newly released Bollywood track has ignited a heated debate online, with many viewers pointing out that Danger, a song from the upcoming film Param Sundari, bears a striking resemblance to Laal Suit, the popular track from the Pakistani drama Mannat Murad. The discussion has largely focused less on which version is superior and more on whether Bollywood has once again drawn heavily from Pakistan’s creative music pool.
Laal Suit, featured in Geo Entertainment’s romantic drama Mannat Murad starring Iqra Aziz and Talha Chahour, quickly became a fan favourite due to its upbeat melody and playful, vibrant feel. The track’s catchy tune and lively rhythm made it one of the most celebrated highlights of the drama, earning widespread acclaim from viewers.
Danger, released on 21st August as part of the Bollywood film Param Sundari, starring Sidharth Malhotra and Janhvi Kapoor, has sparked the controversy.
While the song carries its own production elements, listeners immediately noticed its similar beat and overall tune, along with the repeated mention of a “red outfit,” which closely mirrors the theme and style of Laal Suit. This resemblance has caused a wave of reactions on social media, with users posting side-by-side clips of both tracks and debating just how “inspired” Bollywood might have been by the Pakistani original.
The debate has brought attention to recurring issues regarding Bollywood’s adaptation of Pakistani hits. Over the years, several Pakistani songs have appeared in Indian films in altered forms, often drawing criticism and ridicule online. One notable example is the 2022 film JugJugg Jeeyo, which featured The Punjaabban Song, widely regarded as a copy of Abrar ul Haq’s classic Nach Punjaban, a move that was publicly criticized by the singer himself.
Beyond these controversies, the situation highlights the strength and creativity of Pakistan’s music industry. From ghazals to modern pop, Pakistan has produced songs that resonate deeply with listeners across the globe.
While Bollywood has struggled in recent years to produce music with the same lasting impact it once had between 2000 and 2020, Pakistan continues to set trends and produce memorable hits.
Even Indian singer Shilpa Rao has acknowledged the impact of Pakistan’s music, calling Coke Studio Pakistan a defining platform. However, Pakistan’s musical talent is not limited to one platform; the country’s drama OSTs and other contemporary songs have repeatedly become household favourites, emphasizing the depth and diversity of its creative music industry.
The controversy surrounding Danger and Laal Suit has once again underscored Pakistan’s influential role in shaping South Asian music and the persistent admiration for its vibrant musical talent across borders.
