Fawad Khan gets criticised for being judge in Pakistan Idol Season 2, here’s why he is selected
While Fawad’s role as a judge on Pakistan Idol has sparked a heated debate, the controversy reflects a generational divide; While younger fans are more familiar with Fawad’s acting career, older fans remember his musical roots.
Fawad Khan, who was a judge on Pakistan Idol Season 2, along with Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Bilal Maqsood and Zeb Bangash, are targeted to judge aspiring singers without formal musical training. The younger crowd, including former playback singer Humaira Arsha, who were not familiar with her work as a lead singer, were criticizing the Pakistani actor for being a judge on the reality show.
Why was Fawad Khan selected as a judge on Pakistan Idol Season 2?
Not many people know, but before becoming an actor, Fawad was the lead vocalist of the popular rock band Entity Paradigm (EP). His band was part of Pakistan’s rock revolution in the 2000s and won the first season of Pepsi Battle of the Bands. The songs ‘Waqt’, ‘Hamesha’ and ‘Kahan Hai Tu’ became particularly popular among Pakistani youth. During his time with the EP, Khan performed in over 250 shows across the country. Even after acting, he continues to lend his voice to music projects.
While Fawad’s role as a judge on Pakistan Idol has sparked a heated debate, the controversy reflects a generational divide; While younger fans are more familiar with Fawad’s acting career, older fans remember his musical roots. Many fans, especially millennials, defend him and point out his successful music career as the lead vocalist of prominent Pakistani rock band Entity Paradigm. Some have argued that his experience as an artist and celebrity offers valuable insight for contestants as they learn to navigate not only technical musical skill but also fame and artistic growth.
Additionally, Fawad’s global appeal attracts a wider audience, with his casting generating significant publicity and online discussion. He balances the judging panel with his unique blend of musical and acting experience.
Criticism of Fawad Khan’s decision on Pakistan Idol
Earlier, Humaira Arshad weighed in on online criticism of Khan, arguing that people without formal music training should not be judges. “Assessing musical talent requires years of training and a deep understanding of vocals and technique,” Arshad said. “If a contestant had asked them to perform a classical taan, they wouldn’t be able to do it. How can someone who can’t sing judge those who can?” he added.
