Veteran producer Vashu Bhagnani and BJP MP Babul Supriyo hold press meet over ‘Welcome To New York’ controversy

New Delhi: In a packed press conference in Delhi, BJP MP and Minister Babul Supriyo, veteran producer Vashu Bhagnani, music director Shamir Tandon and CEO of Indian Films and Television Producers Council (IFTPC) Suresh Amin were present after a huge controversy broke over legendary singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan singing a song called ‘Ishtehaar’ in the film ‘Welcome To New York’.

Soon after the song released, Babul Supriyo had demanded that the song be banned or have Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s voice removed and replaced in the song.

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At the press conference, Babul Supriyo said, “I am not against any Pakistani artist. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan Sahab is a very accomplished artist. But we believe that currently, given the kind of animosity between India and Pakistan with our soldiers being martyred, it is not appropriate for us to work with Pakistani artists and that is why I asked for the song to be banned.”

Veteran Producer Vashu Bhagnani added, “I have always respected the soldiers. My intention was never to hurt any sentiments but after having spoken to Babulji I promise that we won’t work with Pakistani artists until the relationship between the two countries improve.”

‘Ishtehaar’ from the film ‘Welcome To New York’ which has been sung by singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Dhvani Bhanushali and composed by Shamir Tandon with lyrics penned by Charanjeet Charan.

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Directed by Chakri Toleti and Produced by Pooja Films and Wiz Films with Music by Pooja Music, ‘Welcome To New York’ releases worldwide on February 23rd, 2018.