After more than ten years, the music competition Pakistan Idol has returned to the screens to entertain audiences.

Although the show is currently in the audition phase, clips of new singers’ performances going viral on social media have already started winning viewers’ appreciation.

While the program is being widely praised for giving new talent a platform and opportunity, it has also sparked several controversies.

The judges’ panel for this competition of melody and rhythm includes Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Zeb Bangash, Bilal Maqsood, and Fawad Khan, and the first controversy surrounding the show arose from objections to this very panel, particularly questioning Fawad Khan’s inclusion.

Despite multiple criticisms, neither the show’s organisers nor the judges themselves have issued any direct statement.

However, several people from the showbiz industry have come forward to show their support, and well-known singer Sahir Ali Bagga also voiced in favour of the show.

Known for his high-pitched and melodious singing style, Sahir took to social media to express his displeasure over the criticism directed at the show.

On Instagram story, he wrote, “Pakistan mei koi music show chal hi para hai to khuda ka wasta usey chalne do, apne apne luch talne band kro or kam kro new songs banao or release karo, wele beth kar Pakistan idol k peechay parr gaye ho 

(If there’s finally a music show running in Pakistan, for God’s sake, let it continue! Stop wasting time with pointless criticism, focus on your own work, make new songs, and release them. You’re sitting idle and have all ganged up against Pakistan Idol).”

A few days back, singer Sajjad Ali revealed that he refused to let organisers use his songs after they couldn’t reach an agreement over the financial terms of a potential deal. He also faced criticism for it.

Earlier, playback singer Humaira Arshad questioned the qualifications of Pakistan Idol’s panel of judges.