ISLAMABAD: Pakistani artist and singer Ali Zafar’s latest music video release, ‘Yaar Di Akh’, has not only garnered 1.8 million views instantly but has also sparked a heated debate on social media regarding its portrayal of gender roles and clothing selections.
The music video, featuring the captivating model Aneesa Sheikh alongside Ali Zafar, has been praised for its artistic vision, with lyrics and composition by Hassan Badshah. However, it quickly became the focal point of controversy as viewers voiced concerns over perceived gender disparities in clothing choices.
Critics pointed out what they saw as a dichotomy in attire, where Aneesa Sheikh appeared in revealing clothing on a beach setting, contrasting sharply with Ali Zafar’s more covered appearance in a trench coat.
One viewer, commenting on social media, questioned whether the video reduced Aneesa Sheikh to a mere symbol while Ali Zafar was portrayed more comfortably in his clothing.
In response to the growing criticism, Ali Zafar took to social media to address the concerns directly. “These are two different beaches on two different continents, captured at different moments in time.
He clarified that the locations of filming for himself and Aneesa Sheikh were different due to weather conditions, with him being in Sydney and Aneesa Sheikh in Los Angeles. “I was in Sydney, while Aneesa Sheikh was in Los Angeles.
He emphasized that each wore what was appropriate given their respective environments and asserted that the video aimed to celebrate individuality and refrain from judgment. “This video is meant to reflect the beauty of connection across distances where each of us wore what we felt.
Ali Zafar responded to queries about his trench coat attire on the beach, humorously stating, “It was cold :)” “I value your comment but I say let’s cultivate a world where we celebrate individuality and refrain from judging others, especially women, for their choices in self-expression.
Despite Ali Zafar’s explanation, the debate continued among viewers and followers, highlighting ongoing sensitivities towards gender representation in media and the perceived objectification of women.
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