Renowned Pakistani singer and music legend Sajjad Ali has clarified his stance regarding the ongoing debate over the use of his popular song Ravi in an Indian reality show.
Recently, two young singers performed Sajjad Ali’s famous song Ravi on an Indian Punjabi singing reality show, prompting social media users to question why the singer had previously objected to the use of his songs on Pakistan Idol but appeared silent over its use in the Indian show.
In a statement shared on Instagram, Sajjad Ali made it clear that he had not granted permission to the Indian reality show to use his song. According to him, the song was performed as a cover without his authorization. However, he praised the talent of the two young singers and said his team would review the matter from a legal perspective.
He further stated that copyright laws around the world require proper permission and fair compensation for the use of any artist’s creative work. Sajjad Ali said his position regarding Pakistan Idol had always been the same: major television shows and corporate organizations should respect artists’ rights and pay them for using their work.
The singer also rejected the impression that he prevents Pakistani artists from singing his songs. He said his struggle is solely for the protection of his legal and creative rights, not to discourage emerging singers.
Sajjad Ali added that many Indian singers admire his work, but such positive acknowledgements rarely receive the same attention as controversies.
His statement has been widely appreciated by members of the entertainment industry and fans alike. Director Ehteshamuddin described it as the “best response” to critics, while many fans said every artist deserves fair compensation and respect for the use of their creative work.
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