Actress Huma Qureshi has found herself at the center of a social media storm after releasing a modern rendition of the iconic song 'Ishq Kameena' from the 1998 Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai starrer 'Duplicate'. The remake, part of the film 'Karma Calling', has drawn sharp criticism from fans of the original stars, who accuse Qureshi of tarnishing a beloved classic.
Fan Outrage Over Remake
Within hours of the song's release, social media platforms were flooded with negative reactions. Many fans expressed disappointment, stating that the new version lacks the charm and energy of the original. One user tweeted, "How dare they touch 'Ishq Kameena'? This is a slap to SRK and Aishwarya fans." Another commented, "Huma Qureshi should stick to her own songs instead of ruining classics." The backlash has been so intense that the song's YouTube comments section has been disabled, according to reports.
Details of the Remake
The new 'Ishq Kameena' features Huma Qureshi and is choreographed by the original song's choreographer, Saroj Khan, who passed away in 2020. The track retains the original tune but features updated lyrics and a contemporary music arrangement. The song is from Qureshi's upcoming film 'Karma Calling', directed by Anurag Kashyap, though Kashyap has not commented on the controversy.
Comparison with the Original
The original 'Ishq Kameena' was a high-energy dance number featuring Shah Rukh Khan and Aishwarya Rai, with the latter in a iconic black outfit. The song was a massive hit and remains a fan favorite. In contrast, Qureshi's version has been criticized for its lackluster choreography and subdued performance. Many fans feel that the remake fails to capture the essence of the original, with one fan stating, "It's like watching a shadow of the original. No offense to Huma, but this just doesn't work."
Industry Reactions
While neither Shah Rukh Khan nor Aishwarya Rai has publicly commented on the remake, industry insiders suggest that the backlash could have been avoided if the filmmakers had sought permission or collaborated with the original stars. A source close to the production told a leading daily, "The team didn't expect such a strong reaction. They thought fans would appreciate the tribute." However, the overwhelming negative response indicates that fans are protective of their favorite songs and stars.
Impact on 'Karma Calling'
The controversy has cast a shadow over 'Karma Calling', which is yet to announce a release date. While some argue that any publicity is good publicity, the negative sentiment could affect the film's reception. Qureshi, known for her roles in films like 'Gangs of Wasseypur' and 'Dedh Ishqiya', has not responded to the backlash on social media. It remains to be seen whether the controversy will die down or escalate as the film's release approaches.
