'Worst virus is a human dehumanising another' - Pakistan actor on Shoaib Akhtar roasting PSL 2021 anthem

In this era of social media, almost everything divides public opinion and the recently-released anthem of the sixth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) is not an exception either. The anthem titled “Aaj Dekhe Ga Crowd Mera Groove TV Pe” was released on February 6 and has received a mixed reaction. While some have praised it, others have been criticizing the song.

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar falls in the second category. The anthem has not gone down well with the outspoken cricketer and he did not shy away from criticizing it. Akhtar, who loves to give opinions on almost everything related to cricket, posted a video on his official YouTube channel where he could be seen mocking the anthem.

In his criticism, Akhtar said that the song was poorly composed and went on to say that the song had “scared my children.” Known for making bold comments, Akhtar went as far as saying that he would file a case against Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the ‘disappointing’ anthem. The bowling legend also mocked the artists in the song during his scathing assessment of the anthem.

“I am about to file a case against PCB. Who came up with this idea? Such an awful composition and anthem. Who was the person at PCB responsible for such a song? Don’t you feel ashamed? You have scared my children. They haven’t been talking to me for the last three days.”

“The woman who is singing won’t even know what groove means. Our music industry is so rich. I have never heard a song that was worst composed than this. No disrespect to the singers, they were asked to sing a song like this. If you can’t find any other singer, I will sing it for you,” said Shoaib Akhtar.

Shoaib Akhtar faces severe criticism

While criticizing something is definitely not wrong, it looks like the choice of words used by Shoaib Akhtar has not gone down well with many in Pakistan. Artists from Pakistan have lashed out at the former cricketer for his remarks over the anthem which were definitely in bad taste. It should be noted that the anthem features legendary Pakistani singer Naseebo Lal, Aima Baig, and rapping duo Young Stunners.

It has been composed by celebrated musician Zulfiqar Jabbar Khan (Xulfi) and Adnan Dhool. Actor Naveed Raza savaged Akhtar for his comment and asked the latter to learn appreciating. Saying that the worst virus is a human being, Naveed also called out Akhtar for ‘dehumanising another human’. On the other hand, singer and actor Farhan Saeed said he respects Akhtar’s opinion but it is a stupid one.

“Learn to appreciate Shoaib Bhai. The worst virus is a human, dehumanising another human. Prevention is better than cure. Groove Mera is a solid stadium feel the song,” said Naveed as quoted by The Express Tribune.

“It’s his opinion, that’s okay! He has the right, but that’s a stupid opinion is what is my opinion. This song will be a winner in the stadiums, mark it! Well done Xulfi, Aima Baig and of course Naseebo Lal. Great effort!” said Farhan.

Actor and composer Haroon Shahid was not impressed with Akhtar’s comments either as he said: “This guy talks about aesthetics! Here’s a guy who commentates in English defining ‘Groove’ for us in musical terms. PS: Groove by any definition does not mean Naali! We all know where this is stemming from. Pathetic to see such pettiness. Still love Shoaib for the bowler he was!”

“Okay, I’m not demeaning Shoaib Akhtar but when he talks about aesthetics then let’s talk about the way he commentates in English. Unfortunately, not a sentence goes by with grammatical errors. How dare he insult those young musicians in that manner! Aiday tussi A R Rahman,” he added.