The Indian government has banned a five-year-old song by Sikh singer Zara Gill, titled “Asi Murdabad Nahi Keh Sakde, Bhul Ke Vi Pakistan Nu” (“We cannot ever curse Pakistan, not even by mistake”), for its pro-Pakistan lyrics.
Despite the ban, the song’s message of love, spirituality, and cross-border unity continues to resonate with listeners. Zara Gill and her powerful vocals and emotional lyrics have created a stir on social media. Thousands are sharing the song and praising its heartfelt expression of gratitude and spiritual kinship with the land of Pakistan.
The ban has only served to amplify the song’s impact, with many viewing it as an attempt to silence cultural expressions. Such cultural expressions which promote unity and challenge Modi’s narrative. As the song’s popularity continues to soar, it has become a symbol of peace against cultural censorship and a testament to the power of music to bridge divides.
Karatarpur’s Relevance To The Song Of Zara Gill
Notably, the song was released after Pakistan opened the Kartarpur Corridor. The initiative aimed at allowing Indian Sikh pilgrims to visit one of their holiest sites in Pakistan without needing a visa. Sikhism’s founder Baba Guru Nanak was born in a city of Pakistan, Nanakana Sahib, while Karatarpur is his final resting place.
The song expresses the Sikh community’s love for Pakistan, recognizing it as the homeland of their spiritual leader, Baba Guru Nanak.
The ban on Zara Gill’s song highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage and traditions. Culture and traditions are the fabric that binds communities together, fostering understanding, empathy, and peace. By attempting to suppress cultural expressions, the Modi government is undermining the very foundations of India’s diverse and vibrant cultural landscape.
Critics argue that the ban is a blatant attempt to stifle artistic freedom and perpetuate a narrow, nationalist agenda. By targeting a song that promotes cross-border unity and love, the Modi government is revealing its deep-seated intolerance for dissenting voices and alternative narratives.
As the world watches, it is clear that the ban on Zara Gill’s song has only served to amplify its message of love and unity.