Himesh Reshammiya, renowned for his musical prowess in Bollywood, had garnered a vast following with hits like ‘Tera Suroor’ and ‘Aashiq Banaya Aapne.’ Unbeknownst to him, the release of ‘Jhalak Dikhla Ja’ would prove to be a double-edged sword, propelling the talented composer into the midst of a gripping controversy.
The controversy began when reports surfaced of the song linked to paranormal activities. According to an article published in Hindustan Times, the lyrics of ‘Jhalak Dikhla Ja’ allegedly believed to serve as a medium for supernatural entities to make their presence felt. This startling revelation sent shockwaves through the industry and ignited a fervent debate over the song’s influence and potential dangers.
The village of Bhalej became the epicenter of this controversy when the song banned within its confines. The decision prompted by an incident involving a young man named Firoz Thakor, who, as the story goes, fell under the sway of an evil force while singing ‘Jhalak Dikhla Ja’ one evening. Firoz’s bizarre behavior, coupled with his subsequent return to normalcy after consulting a local Maulana (priest), fueled fears and led to the banishment of the song from the village.
The ban on ‘Jhalak Dikhla Ja’ met with mixed reactions. Some believed it was a necessary precaution to protect individuals from potential spiritual harm, while others dismissed the claims as baseless superstition. Isamiya Master, a retired schoolteacher residing in Thakor Mohalla, recounted numerous incidents of possession allegedly linked to the song’s lyrics. His account added weight to the argument that the words “Aaja Aaja” in the song invited malevolent spirits.
The controversy surrounding ‘Jhalak Dikhla Ja’ bore an uncanny resemblance to the storyline of the popular film ‘Stree,’ starring Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor. In the movie, villagers employ protective measures to ward off a ghostly presence. The similarity between fiction and reality only served to heighten the intrigue and intensify discussions surrounding the song’s supernatural associations.
Amidst the controversy, ‘Jhalak Dikhla Ja’ still managed to achieve significant success, with its infectious beats and memorable lyrics captivating audiences across the nation. Regardless of whether the claims of supernatural influence were valid or not, the controversy stirred a storm within the industry and ignited passionate debates among fans. This unforgettable chapter in the history of Bollywood music serves as a testament to the enduring impact of ‘Jhalak Dikhla Ja’ and the powerful emotions music can evoke.
