Akhtar Chanal Zahri, the renowned Balochi folk artist, has talked about his popular hits, emerging Balochi musicians, and the controversy surrounding his song ‘Afghan Jalebi,’ during the 35-day international cultural fair organized in collaboration with Geo Digital and the Karachi Arts Council. The fair features performances by artists from 40 countries, and Pakistani folk artists are making a mark with their unique styles.
His popular song ‘Dane Pe Dana’ is the one that catapulted him to fame. However, he changed the song after hearing it from a fakir and first performed it for a local news network.
He said, “I had gone to Qalat, where I heard a fakir singing this song in a beautiful style. I changed it, and when I sang the song, I was amazed by the love and affection I received from people. It was a miraculous song that eventually made it to Coke Studio.”
“Currently, I am upset with the Coke Studio people, for several reasons which I will explain later,” he added.
Regarding the song ‘Afghan Jalebi,’ which is from an Indian movie and sung by Pakistani musician Asrar Shah, Akhtar Chanal was asked about his connection to the song and whether he knew the film’s story was anti-Pakistan.
In response, he said, “I got a call that an Indian film was being made, and they wanted me to sing a song in it. I said okay, send the song. The lyrics sounded very inappropriate; the song had a very tapori style. I said, sir, I am a folk artist—I can’t sing these lyrics.”
He further explained, “They kept following up with me and asked me to sing. Then they said, ‘Akhtar Bhai, if you don’t like the lyrics, you can change the words.’ So I sang the song. My original version was released online, but the version in the film was sung by Pakistani musician Asrar.”
Regarding the film, he added, “I did not know that Katrina Kaif and Saif Ali Khan were in it, but later I realized the film had an anti-Pakistan storyline, so I decided to step away from it.”
He also congratulated new and emerging Baloch artists including Kafi Khalil, Wahab Bugti, and Eva B, for the popularity of ‘Kanha Yaari’ and their role in promoting Balochi music.
Balochi music is very popular in the Middle East, and Akhtar Chanal explained the reason behind its appeal.
“This style of music has an attraction that draws listeners to it. Despite language differences, people are becoming fans of Balochi music after hearing it.”
He also congratulated the President of the Karachi Arts Council, Ahmed Shah, and Jang and Geo News for organizing the International Cultural Fair. He said, “I have dedicated myself to those who know the value of art and music. The arrival of international artists in Pakistan helps present a positive image of the country. Such fairs should continue to be held.”
