Vasay Chaudhry disapproves item songs, bold scenes in movies

Prominent film writer, TV host, and actor Vasay Chaudhry asserted that the Pakistani film industry originally evolved as an extension of Indian showbiz. In the early days, when there was only one country, those involved in filmmaking were the same people who later migrated to Pakistan.

Chaudhry recently appeared in a podcast, where he openly shared his views on various topics, including his stance against incorporating item songs in movies.

“While item songs have been a part of Pakistani films in the past, I do not support their inclusion in films,” he said.

During the podcast, the host added that the term 'item song' was initially referred to as a 'special song' but acquired the name 'item' in the Indian film industry.

The ‘Dolly Ki Ayegi Baraat Actor’ pointed out that “Pakistan adopted the same terminology without exploring alternative terms We have become accustomed to taking the easy way out.”

Chaudhry also expressed disapproval of an excessive display of bold romantic scenes in movies. According to him, “showcasing intense romantic moments merely for sensationalising content is unnecessary, when the same emotions can be conveyed through simpler gestures like hugging.”

He proposed the idea that, "while depicting the romance between the hero and the heroine, incorporating a romantic song by Atif Aslam as a background melody, accompanied by a visual of them holding hands, eliminates the necessity for an excess of bold scenes."

When asked about allegations of replicating Indian films in 'Jawaani Phir Nahi Aani' and other projects, Vasay dismissed such inquiries as futile to address.

Discussing the resemblance between Pakistani and Indian films, Vasay Chaudhry contended that “Pakistan's film industry is, in essence, an extension of India's. Before partition, when there was only one country, individuals in the showbiz industry were the same on both sides.”

The ‘London Nahi Jaunga’ actor emphasised that post-partition, Pakistan's film industry seamlessly continued the legacy of the Indian showbiz industry.

He pointed out, “Pakistan's first film, 'Teri Yaad,' released in 1948, mirrored the style of Indian films from that era. This, was because, prior to partition, the people of India and Pakistan shared a common identity, and their approaches to thinking and working were indistinguishable.”

Highlighting the cultural and stylistic similarities, Vasay observed, “In the past, icons like Waheed Murad and Nadeem used to dance around trees trope similar to to Indian actors.”

Responding to the question of allowing Indian films in Pakistani cinemas, he asserted, “Allowing Indian films in Pakistani cinemas could foster a mutually beneficial exchange.”

He also revealed that until 2018, Pakistan stood as the fourth-largest market for Indian movies.