Celebrities
Waris Baig Reflects on Mahesh Bhatt’s Apology and Music Copyright Issues
Waris Baig stands out as one of the most iconic voices in the Pakistani music scene over the last few decades. His extensive discography includes hundreds of songs for films, resonating deeply with millions due to his unique vocal tone and the distinctive vibe of his music. Known for his live performances, Baig has also received numerous accolades throughout his career, solidifying his status in the industry.
A notable incident in Baig’s career involves filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, who, according to the singer, incorporated one of his songs into the Bollywood film “Murder” without initially realizing its origin. In a candid moment during an interview with Wasi Shah, Baig recounted how Bhatt later apologized publicly, clarifying that he had been given the song by a Pakistani artist and was unaware it belonged to Baig. This incident is just one of many where his work has been replicated in Bollywood, a situation that has occurred throughout his career.
Despite the instances of his songs being copied, Baig expressed that he harbors no resentment towards those who have used his music without permission. He noted that the music landscape has evolved, particularly with platforms like YouTube now enforcing stricter regulations against copyright infringement, a contrast to the past when such protections were absent. This evolution reflects the changing dynamics of the music industry, where artists are increasingly recognized for their original contributions. Waris Baig’s journey illustrates both the challenges and triumphs of an artist who continues to inspire through his enduring legacy.