By Ahmad Uzair
Any sort of competition between Pakistan and India has always got an
extra appeal to it. Pakistan and India have fought more than 3 wars in
past half a century which truly justifies the hype surrounding any
affair of the two nations. The cricket rivalry among the two nations is
considered to be one of the most strained one in any sport around the
world. But at the end of the day, Pakistani stars have their own
charisma and demand in the Indian crowd and there is no anomaly to it
when it comes to the singing arena.
For the past few years, Pakistani singers are making inroads in to
Bollywood and virtually conquering it at times. But this time around its
singing battle ‘Sur Kshetra
’ which is gaining its momentum, all thanks to the show’s format which
include teams from India and Pakistan who are contesting for the glory
of SUR at a neutral venue, Dubai.
The set-up of the show is unique in a way that it’s the first time we
have seen the contestants from both sides of the border running against
each other in teams. The Indian team is captained by Himesh Reshamiya
where as the Pakistani singers are spearheaded by Atif Aslam, who marks his debut as a full time mentor in any of the reality shows till date.
Just like their singing styles and personal aura, there is so much
contradicting to both of these superstars which is definitely a fun
element to watch during the show. Firstly it’s Himesh, who with his ever
famous gallant opinions really keep the show alive. He doesn’t miss out
any of the chances to defend his team mate which rather looks a bit
fabricated from both of the team captains as they never point out any of
the mistakes of their own team players and hardly praise their
counterparts.
On the other hand, this is totally a new venture for Atif Aslam
specially against Himesh who is known to be the ‘king’ of these reality
singing shows. In past, Atif was quoted, saying that he does not like
going to Reality shows as they all were ‘scripted’
so it was kind of surprise move from the super star himself but one
would say that Atif Aslam is doing a pretty decent job when it comes to
making comments and keeping his head cool and calm in response to the
emotional remarks of his counterparts.
Then there is that highly honourable judges panel consisting of Abida Parveen,
Runa Laila and Asha Bhosle. Once again Asha Bhosle is a regular
attendee of judge’s panel in various shows and is one of the most
respected personalities in singing circles. But this is kind of really
hilarious and interesting to see Asha Bhosle sharing stage with Atif.
Asha ji clearly stated at more than one occasions in past that
Atif Aslam simply doesn’t qualify for the singing criteria. But it gives
you immense pleasure and pride as a Pakistani; to see her singing duets
with Atif Aslam who she was not even ready to accept as a singer.
Surely the Money speaks! Not the Sur’s.
The contestants from both the sides are spirited and upbeat to win
the battle for their respective countries. This is sort of a game show
which has got all of its typical elements, the drama, the emotion, the
clashes and last but not the least this Indo-Pak idea is conceived by
Gajendera Singh who is widely regarded as the master of this art.
Another notable thing is the inclusion of Sara Raza
in the Pakistani squad. I don’t know about the Indian lineup but Sara
Raza is quite an accomplished and professional singer now after her
successful stint at another reality show in the past. Her inclusion is a
bit surprising as to how a professional singer can compete in an
amateur’s game show.
And not to forget the charming and gorgeous looking Ayesha Takia
who is hosting the show and despite being an actor and having no prior
experience of hosting, she really makes her presence being felt with her
witty and timely one-liners. Earlier there were rumours that Annie
Khalid was approached for this job but seeing Annie’s little grip on
Urdu, one would say that Miss Takia is in fact doing a pretty fine job
and with her ever smiling persona she certainly adds up an extra spice
to the show.
All in all, this show provides you with some great entertainment.
Although at times those little fights among judges seems to be all
made-up but then this is how its done in a ‘Reality show ’and may be
it’s the requirement of the format to keep the tension level high to
acquire ratings. With the show moving ahead towards the final stages
there is surely a lot more drama and excitement coming your.
Via KM
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