That’s just not cricket

Hafsa Adil Published November 12, 2009

In the age of stump microphones, slow-motion lip reading, and ICC penal codes for racist slurs on the field, Pakistan’s pioneer sports channel has come up with an unbelievable series promo.

The private sports channel’s teaser for the upcoming India-Sri Lanka cricket series defies belief. As video clips showing Sri Lankan cricketers in action are screened, the soundtrack is provided by an old Hindi film song, the lyrics of which are: ‘Hum kaalay hain toh kya huwa dil walay hain.’ That roughly translates to, ‘so what if we are black, we are hearty sportsmen nonetheless.’

The promo pretty much leaves me speechless. In an age where tolerance, diversity, and respect are the grandest ideals, who in their right minds could go to such an extent? I wonder if the channel’s legal advisers (if there are any) or cricket experts (of which there are plenty) are aware of the marketing department’s latest feat.

For a moment, let’s forget about the ICC rules regarding racism. What impression will this blunder leave on the foreign viewers’ minds (let’s leave aside local viewers, who are probably enjoying it)? What will the Lankan team think if they ever have the misfortune of coming across this channel? Shouldn’t more sensitivity be on the cards given Pakistan’s tainted relationship with this team in particular?

We as a nation should be grateful for international channels such as Star Sports, ESPN, and Super Sport, for they give much less painful alternatives to sports fans in Pakistan. Not all of us are willing to overlook the audacity.

Hafsa Adil is a sports editor at Dawn.com.

Blogs

154

Shahbaz Sheikh

Nov 12, 2009 08:50am

I completely agree with you. These people represent everything that our religion has forbidden. I hope someone takes them to court someday.

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haider shaikh

Nov 12, 2009 10:07am

That shows the approach and mindset of the typical creative people working at the Channel who cant create something decent on their own. They should pull the promo off.

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S. Lakhani

Nov 12, 2009 09:33am

Very true, PEMRA should issue notice to the concerned channel, though I haven't watched the ad but as described above it really sounds offensive. Atleast at such a level and have a viewership of millions around the world this channel should understand the difference between funny anecdotes and making fun of someone.

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Salman

Nov 12, 2009 08:53am

This is outrageous! Yet an other indication of the level of maturity of the Pakistani media! Is there no editorial control for the programs which go on air?

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anuj

Nov 12, 2009 08:54am

Adil is right. These comments tell the truth about how some "elites" look at the rest of those in this sub continent. They feel like foreigners in this sub continent. These are the "Pakistani Whites" who are bent on changing history and geography and whose slip of the tongue in this instance shows their true feelings. For them Sri Lankans are black, Indians(non-muslim) are black, and so on and so forth for others in the sub continent. Thank you for showing the true colors of this elite minority in Pakistan.

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Maki

Nov 12, 2009 08:58am

Absolutely correct and I know which Channel is this. Again this channel showing the world that it has no respect for anyone either People of Pakistan, President of Pakistan, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Parliament, Cricket Teams, Actors, Actress and so on.

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Madiha Sultan

Nov 12, 2009 08:54am

Hey Hafsa, Thank you so much for bringing this up. I was appalled when i saw this ad and still can't figure out why the management of private sports channel let such nonsense slide. I'm so happy that it has been written about in the Dawn. This ad is obviously politically incorrect, racist and offensive. It should be taken off the air immediately and Super should issue an apology as well. For all the censorship in this country, one would hope such offensive and insensitive marketing would be blacked out as well.

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Hamid

Nov 12, 2009 08:55am

Shamefully bad. Humor in our country is quite offensive and crude in every way possible, so it does not surprise me, it just frustrates me. The Pakistani mindset is the very antithesis of progressive.

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Abbas

Nov 12, 2009 09:39am

fully agree with you thats simply not acceptable. Channel you are referring to does this normally not only to sportsmen but any one they consider appropriate.

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Haider Mahmud

Nov 12, 2009 09:29am

This is outrageous although I am not surprised it came from this channel. It is more of a drama channel than sports channel. Most of the time is wasted on talk shows which further encourage our penchant to discuss politics in sports. This leaves no time to promote sports at National level in Pakistan.

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TAUSEEF RAZZAK

Nov 12, 2009 09:13am

I completely agree that this is not right and that too with the team who has always supported us in bad times. This channel should immediately stop this promo.

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Ahmed

Nov 12, 2009 09:18am

Now, what in the name of cricket did they do so outrageous this time people, people, o people, this tv channel network is known to create controversies every now and then, remember when the national flag was shown upside down, when they gave a breaking news about an earthquake hitting areas around I.I.Chundrigar road and etc. Let us all accept, controversy sells like anything these days, and this channel and network is out there to earn some good money (and attention).

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Salim

Nov 12, 2009 09:58am

I would'nt put it past those beings who have no sense of what is ethical, moral or any sense of journalism responsibility.

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Khalil

Nov 12, 2009 09:59am

Here we go. Another blunder from our electronic media. I do not know the channel as I am far away from Pakistan. After reading Hafsa article I could not believe that such a outrageous promo is going on in any Pakistani channel. We people in overseas whenever sitting with other nationals try to clarify the image of Pakistan in their mind but frequently news from home water down on our all efforts. Let us hope that promo does not come in international media. However, that promo also shows the fact how media is run by non-professional but rich people.

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Salahuddin

Nov 12, 2009 10:15am

Hafsa, I think you need to chill don't worry about the Sri Lankans, they wont understand the Hindi lyrics. Keep up the good work!

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Owais

Nov 12, 2009 10:25am

I seriously think the mindset behind such a childish act is nothing more than to attract cheap publicity. A racist and Shallow ad in my books.

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Shehryar

Nov 12, 2009 10:20am

Very unfortunate. My little brother told me to check out this funny tv promo of the series. When i did, I was sort of shocked. Im sure it wasn't meant to offend, but a huge blunder nonetheless. This private sports/news channel is also famous for airing controversial programming. All in all, a very immature and irresponsible thing to do.

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Abdul Azeem Butt

Nov 12, 2009 10:22am

All we need is a regulatory body, or if there is one, which needs to wake up and do it's job properly (as with ALL the other organizations of this country). This is indeed a shame!

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Shahnawaz Hassan,UK

Nov 12, 2009 10:29am

This is outrageous, channel must be discouraged for its racist remarks & should stop airing such things Its against our moral values and the teachings of our religion. The action of this channel will not be very helpful in the friendly relationship with Srilanka. they already suffer because of us in Lahore and this action of channel must be condemned at all levels. One thing is for sure we Pakistani goes in extreme and offensive in everything. But maturity will come with education and professionalism, moral and ethics are the key areas to addressed in our daily life.

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Faisal Khan

Nov 12, 2009 10:36am

Private TV channels has made it a habit of promoting Indian movie culture in Pakistan. Now they might offend the Sri Lankan's, who came over to Pakistan in troubled times and narrowly missed casualties. Initially I thought the TV ad is meant for both Indian's and Sri Lankan's.

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samyak gowda

Nov 12, 2009 10:56am

It is humor. It may be crude, but it is humor. I just fail to understand the fuss about such issue. Come next month, people won't even remember this ad.

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Owais

Nov 12, 2009 10:41am

Goes on to prove that many of the channels are run by uneducated not knowing what is right and what is wrong. Our electronic media needs to be regulated big time. Its good that some of the better advised channels came up with self-censorship in case of terrorism.

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Lalai

Nov 12, 2009 11:02am

I think this channel has crossed all the limits. I think Freedom of Press and speech should have some limits as we can hardly afford any new mafia's.

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Sahar Khan

Nov 12, 2009 11:00am

Such a pathetic move by a channel was something that should be highly discouraged. All appreciation for you Hafsa, who put up such a serious issue! TV channels should reconsider what they on-aired in the light of ideals we stand for today, as mentioned by the writer.

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Omer Emran

Nov 12, 2009 11:27am

I have had the misfortune of working for this particular TV channel for almost a year. There is no such thing as professionalism in our media industry, all that the channels are concerned with is the commercial value that they can drive out or news, talk shows, controversial topics, Indian movies and now sports. There should be regulatory body which should be monitoring the program content in general, though this suggestion of idea would inadvertently bring all the TV channels out screaming and shouting that 'media is being suppressed!' and foul cries like 'there goes freedom of speech'. It is sad to see that this channel is working largely on a different agenda, all they want is to make big bucks. They should stop airing such a ridiculous promo. This is harming our image and bringing a bad name to the media!

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Hassan Muhammad Azeem

Nov 12, 2009 12:43pm

I agree with what Goraya just said. There is no such thing as "Pakistani Whites"... and we certainly do not consider any Non-muslim as any one who has any lesser rights then our own.

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Goraya

Nov 12, 2009 12:08pm

Hello Anuj No body can deny that something wrong has happened through this ad which should not have been there but I disagree with you. There is no such thing like "elite minority" or "Pakistani white". Yes I fully agree with all my colleagues that it is an irresponsible act and only motive could have been to gain cheap popularity. To quote my brother Owais "I seriously think the mindset behind such a childish act is nothing more than to attract cheap publicity" But dont give the ad your own meaning like "elite minority(Pakistani white) in Pakistan consider indian non muslim as black". I am sorry to say this is not the correct interpretation rather reflection of your own thoughts which is more dangerous than this ad.

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naif

Nov 12, 2009 12:03pm

Pemra is more concerned with blocking others which allow valuable info. This is bad to the max extent. Consider this ad being aired on Srilankan TV or sports channel for Pakistan Team, what Then?

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Ali

Nov 12, 2009 11:49am

I havent seen the promo yet but another disappointing act of our media. Why our media is like this?? They never learn.

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BONG

Nov 12, 2009 12:05pm

You all want to protest? Stop watching the channel and start a public campaign around you and your family to stop watching it.

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Asad

Nov 12, 2009 12:32pm

There is nothing wrong in that. If only you think in a positive aspect by realizing that we all are black. And if you are in a complex then you will feel this way otherwise i saw the promo and its quite ok.

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adeel

Nov 12, 2009 12:53pm

Living abroad, I am so embarassed of Pakistani's!

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King

Nov 12, 2009 12:27pm

I think restrictions need to be put on Media at once. The Pakistani media is so powerful now that it can even topple a government. I agree wholeheartedly with General Musharraf's old pemra ordinance. These media people need to be taught a lesson and when you try to stop them they start crying 'oh my freedom where is it'.

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maxh

Nov 12, 2009 12:30pm

what it has to do with Pakistan, why Pakistani tv channel is show ad anyway? It is upcoming India-Sri Lanka cricket series.

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TTiger

Nov 12, 2009 12:58pm

Its a funny ad plus whatever happened to the freedom of speech? You media folk don't have such concerns about decency when talking about the president etc. Why are you suddenly so concerned about inappropriate ads now?

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Prasad

Nov 13, 2009 06:40am

Chill!! Its a cute sweet song that has no racial aspects at all! What's wrong in being proud to be Black? What's wrong in proclaiming that we are 'full of sportsmanship'? The author should get few lessons on what diversity and racial discrimination.

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Siddarth

Nov 13, 2009 06:31am

It's a fact, fair skinned Pakistani's think they're not really South Asian. They have a fantasy that they belong to the Irani's, Afghani's, Arabs, Central Asian peoples. Anything but the darker-skinned people of India! Even in north India, fair skinned Indians exude a superior I-am-better-than-thou attitude. There is no pure race people, we are all mixed and even if there are pure races, it doesn't mean anything to me. truly yours, Siddarth.

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ranvir singh

Nov 13, 2009 07:09am

Well ! media freedom is ok but media should know where to apply self censorship if one is not imposed by Govt. Sadly enough, this sorry state of media should be deplored and rebuked.

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Naveed

Nov 13, 2009 08:40am

Was this Rafi song ever perceived derogatory towards blacks? I don't think so. This bias does not exist in cricket anyways. If the article was triggered from the wrongly perceived inappropriate nature of the word "black/kalay" then one needs a bit of a lesson in film history; only positive representation of darker complexion is communicated in the song. I wish the focus, thus, was on 'dil walay hain' as Sri Lanka has proven the mettle several time hence the slogan "black and proud" which is what what the song communicates

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Naveed Kirmani

Nov 13, 2009 09:37am

What a bunch of people are they, whoever produced this seems to be totally senseless. The kind of turmoil the country is going through especially when no team is interested in coming to Pakistan, what message they will get. This particular TV network has played important role in conspiracies weather its sports or politics.

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Salman Tariq

Nov 13, 2009 09:00am

I do agree with the fact that white-black racial slurs are basically a western thing, and in South Asia discrimination is usually not on basis of color. Nevertheless, the promo is insulting beyond doubt, and has nothing to do with cricket. The News network is a factory of cheap laughs, and this is just another episode in a long series. The bottom line is simple, our news networks will continue to generate cheap laughs as long as there's an audience which wants cheap laughs. It's our job to stand up and make our voices count. Down with mediocrity!

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Salahuddin

Nov 13, 2009 09:39am

For all the Pakistani's living abroad who are ashamed of their nationality and wish they were Indian Muslims-you are more than welcome to go to India, we don't need you. Once you're treated like a third-class citizen by the Hindu population and the authorities, than you will realize.

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Hassaan Bin Haider

Nov 13, 2009 09:52am

Hi guys, I have to agree with u that the teaser surely highlights the color of Sri Lankans, but I m pretty sure that it is not intended in this manner. We, in Pakistan, used to call West Indian team "Kali Aandhi" or "Black Storm", again the color was highlighted but there was no racial discrimination element involved in it. You can find lots of Pakistani who were admirers of Viv Richards, Walsh, Ambrose, Lara and plenty more. Similarly, I can easily say that the biggest fan-base of Sri Lanka is Pakistan after their own country. We really admire Jayasuriya, Muralitharan, Aravinda de Silva, Vaas.

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Ali Bilal

Nov 13, 2009 10:26am

It's a shame that the very team which was the victim of a brutal attack in Lahore yet never said a bad word for the country is being taunted in such a manner! Any attempt at literal translations would not do away with the fact that the Sri Lankan players are being ridiculed on the basis of the color of their skin. I am embarrassed as a Pakistani by the channel's total lack of ethics.

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shivkumar

Nov 13, 2009 12:07pm

Thank you Ms.Hafsa Adil for making us aware about the sad way of advertising the India-Sri Lanka series by a Pakistani channel. Concerned channel should immediately withdraw the offending ad. And offer apologies to the Sri Lankan's in particular and the viewers at large.

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izaz haque

Nov 13, 2009 11:55am

I'd like to add my voice to condemn this insensitive racism. The more people express themselves, the more likely positive change happens.

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Raheel

Nov 13, 2009 11:13am

I couldn

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sultana

Nov 13, 2009 11:26am

Hafsa, Thank you so much for writing about this. I was outraged when I first saw it at a friend's place (fortunately I don't have a TV and so didn't have to see it again). Just yesterday I was telling a foreign journalist how we as a nation are the most racist people in the world. what a disgrace, and then we have the nerve to call ourselves fair and practicing Muslims. shame on us.

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Asit Ghosh

Nov 13, 2009 11:30am

This promo shameful. More shameful is the fact that some people in Pakistan are finding it funny and within the the rights of a free media. One should know 'how far and no further' when it comes to being funny.

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MANSOOR

Nov 13, 2009 11:33am

As Hassan Bin Haider has quiet rightly pointed out that during the hay days of the West Indies they were dubbed as Kali Aandhi, but since no one made a fuss about it and it was pun intended.

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Khavar

Nov 13, 2009 12:12pm

Let's not kid ourselves. We are a racist society and this promo doesn't surprise me at all. It is deep rooted and may not be on the basis of colour of the skin but is certainly there on the basis of ethnicity. We are quick to condemn the West but need to take a peek at our own souls.

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Zain

Nov 13, 2009 12:59pm

All I want to say is please get a sense of humor.

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Charu Khopkar

Nov 13, 2009 01:12pm

I know the song and I've seen the movie (it's an oldie - Gumraah?) where the late Mehmood mimes this song as a defiant refrain of a jilted lover. In fact I love the statement - you can adapt it to anything, eg. ham mote hai to kya hua, dil wale hai - basically saying I'm proud of who I am and I don't care what you think.

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Ali Khan

Nov 13, 2009 01:29pm

Well done Hafsa. Very pertinent point made by Hafsa, indeed! It is shameful for us Pakistanis that we do not realize how racist we are. That translates to how disrespectful we are especially towards colored/black people. We are so uncivilized in this respect that we publicly manifest the dark skin color as a sign of ugliness. How ugly our souls are. Our tv dramas, some very hit ones to our nation's delight provided them entertainment by consistently ridiculing a "Bahoo" (aka Bride) by making barbing remarks about her dark skin. It is about time our so-called thinkers uttered some words of wisdom against this highly objectionable discriminatory trend in the Pakistani society.

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Lionel

Nov 13, 2009 01:43pm

I haven't seen the promo yet, but if it just the song playing in background, then why this fuss. The promo is meant for Indians and Pakistanis who know this song and can relate to this song! It is not insulting any one. No one questioned Mehmood or Mohd. Rafi for the original song. Then why this fuss now? We are all the same people. Surprising is we talk of different cultures. How can cultures be different or did they change after partition? Lets be progressive, productive and positive in our thoughts and deeds..

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maz

Nov 13, 2009 01:58pm

You can talk about diversity, tolerance, racism and what not but its true HUM KAALAY HAIN TU KYA HUA why u making a fuss. I think your racist because most people are not taking it as seriously, if at all, as you.

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Bindu Rama Rao

Nov 13, 2009 02:10pm

Do you ever wonder why "fair and lovely" creams are being sold in India and other parts of Asia - we collectively believe it is better to be fair skinned. This despite our historical ancestors who were extolled as being dark and handsome - Rama and Krishna were both dark and handsome. Clearly, being invaded over the centuries by "fair skinned" Central Asians and later by the Europeans, our erstwhile lower status has changed our mindset.

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Sohail

Nov 13, 2009 02:31pm

Hafsa and dawn deserve credit for condemning racist promo of a private TV channel. Islam and ethics both forbid making fun out of a human's color. Srilankans are one the few friends left of Pakistani's in the world. Pathetic gestures like these can damage our relationship. Unconditional apology must be made.

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Shiraz

Nov 13, 2009 02:38pm

It is very sad that for the sake of ratings and viewership, the channels are lowering their standards like the channels in the west. Although it is very sad, I also would like to make a comment on the comments left by some readers about the Pakistani Media picking up this story. A bad story or a bad judgement call is exactly that "BAD" no matter who mentions it. If Pakistani Media picked up the story that should not leave out the fact that it happened, doesn't matter where. And it should not. Now I ask the question; Where do we as a society draw the line? What happened to our tradional values and ethics? We ourselves have emerged from oppression, may that be India or Pakistan or Bangladesh or Sri Lanka... Kiya Hindu, Kiya Sikh, Kiya Issai Agar Samjho to sub hai bhai bhai

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syed makki shah

Nov 13, 2009 02:56pm

Sri Lanka was the only team willing to tour Pakistan, that of all the South Asian countries, Bangladesh included, we have excellent ties with Sri Lanka and that 'Sri Lankans' have alot of respect for Pakistan. These bigoted, bleach cleaned should be ashamed of themselves.

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Suresh

Nov 13, 2009 03:12pm

The song would have been appropriate had the Sri Lankan themselves used it in their own promo. A couple of decades back, India too went through these feelings, but silently without any debate or protest, people realised and stopped using it in circumstances that may hurt others sentiments.

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Kashif jamil

Nov 13, 2009 03:16pm

I am ashamed. Are the people at the helm of affairs of that particular channel that careless or do they subscribe to the idea of racism.

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Nov 13, 2009 03:18pm

So you mean we are not racist you cant be serious. We love to divide each and every molecule based on its religion, caste, creed, status and whatever you name it. Though we seriously need to grow up and act like mature human beings.

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Nikla Tapla

Nov 13, 2009 03:19pm

The song wasn't offensive in the movie , but certainly is in the context . However the Sri Lankans are very racist as any Tamil in SL will testify .

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Hasan

Nov 13, 2009 03:27pm

First of all we did not raise any voice 15 years ago against West Indies because we did not know better. Now we do. I am sorry to say but Pakistanis are the most racist people in the world. I can sit here and give many examples but that would take too long. I agree with the author that everyone should be ashamed. But what else do you expect from a Pakistani TV Channel.

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Wamiq Ansari

Nov 13, 2009 03:43pm

In this politically correct age, the media has added responsibility to be aware of global social sensitivities. Pakistani media should be a role model for the rest to follow.

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atif

Nov 13, 2009 04:13pm

Disgraceful! Anyone remember Anwar Maqsood's showtime parody of Nazia Hasan's 'disco deewane'? It was sung by Benjamin Sisters targeted at West Indian Cricket team. It was called 'kaaloo deewane'. Coming from an intellectual like Anwar Maqsood, even more shaamful.

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Krishnan Unni Madathil

Nov 13, 2009 04:21pm

The ad was probably made with the pun in mind, and it is to be taken lightly I guess. If being 'fair' (which in fact they are technically not South Asians are classed, in all countries, are non-whites!) makes the makers of this ad and all those who drew cheap laughs from it happy, then so be it. They are good for little else. Sri Lanka is still a good team with a strong record. I'm sure there are a few Taliban jokes making the rounds in Sri Lanka - only they have the temerity to not bring it onto live TV. You expect a respectable TV channel to be a little more professional. Or maybe the jokes been taken far too seriously. Pakistan today is not exactly a nation where international sports of any kind can be conducted anyways. These ads helps. Pun intended.

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Amit

Nov 13, 2009 04:28pm

Excellent piece of writing. I really enjoyed it after a long time. However, let's not be over sensitive about such issues.

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Khalid

Nov 14, 2009 01:30pm

I am at a loss, I don't know what to say. What Bijoy Jose is trying to say is unacceptable. Accepting other is one thing and letting some make fun of another on the basis of color is another. His remarks sound great, but what actually he is trying to say is let them make fun of them, whats the harm. Well why not you ask the opinion of the persons who are the part of this joke. The problem lies in us, we think white skin is better than dark, we are raised thinking that a fair colored person is a better one, its our prejudice and unfortunately for some, its just a matter of laugh.

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Adeel

Nov 13, 2009 05:00pm

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Alam

Nov 13, 2009 05:02pm

I once attended a Sri Lanka and Holland match (the world cup Sri Lanka won) at Gadaffi Stadium where our own supporters were singing "Ye Chhottay Chhottay...Haey Haey...Ye Kaalay Kaalay Hae hae" to a group of sri lankan supporters a couple of seats in front. This will come as no shock to anyone so I wouldn't worry too much about Sri Lankan players/officials/viewers being offended by such things coming from our side, insults hurled, bottles thrown during matches, grenades thrown at team buses etc etc.

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A Khan

Nov 13, 2009 05:07pm

This Pakistani channel should be shut down for such a cheap and disrespectful campaign. We are peace loving people and Sri Lankans are our friends. I am ashamed at how we are treating our friends!

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saaheb

Nov 13, 2009 05:12pm

So you guys from Pakistan think you are 'white' or something..?? I still do not understand on what basis this promo is making fun of the players.

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Haider

Nov 13, 2009 05:53pm

Its a matter of perspective. I didn't find it offensive.

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Hussain.D

Nov 13, 2009 05:57pm

It is sad to be able to laugh at some one's race, colour, creed or indeed disability. Only people with less than ordinary morality could do it. Education and progress changes many things, but alas, the mindset remains the same.

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Pratap

Nov 13, 2009 06:10pm

Frankly I was not too outraged by this ad, but I am surprised by the comments from many people who are trying to explain the logic and striking it down as only pun intended. What happened to this logical brains when the danish cartoons were published? Why did you not take it as pun intended?? I condemn those cartoons and also this ad. Heights of hypocrisy, when its your sensitivities, no one can make fun, but others sensitivities, you find all the logic in this world. These hypocrites are both in Hindus and Muslims and to @ Salahuddin, The fact that some of your people wish to be Indians, shows how we treat our own people. In India if 10 people attack Muslims, 10,000 people stand up to defend them.

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nasir am

Nov 13, 2009 06:37pm

Wish my father was around to read this condemnation. Utilizing cricketer

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Javed Ashraf

Nov 13, 2009 06:49pm

One can make comments about dark skinned individuals and depending upon the context, be offensive or otherwise. The great heavyweight boxer, Muhammad Ali was sometimes called "The Black Superman." This was not intended to denigrate him. The West Indian cricket team, once called "Kali Andhi" was not being denigrated. However, there is little that is redeeming about the title being used for the Sri Lanka team. Not only is it offensive. It reflects the small-mindedness of those who created the video.

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Faiz Hanif

Nov 13, 2009 07:12pm

I wonder how will Pakistani's react when Australia runs a promo for Aussie Paki test series as clash between Aussies and brownies?

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Ammaar Ahmad

Nov 13, 2009 12:25pm

To the lady living in New Zealand. I think you should go to India and see for yourself the level of discrimination the Muslims face. Indian Muslim in Amsterdam

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sjk

Nov 13, 2009 12:34pm

It's very sad but to be frank what this private tv ad is saying out loud and blatantly others are saying same thing in different manners.

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usman

Nov 13, 2009 12:28pm

Apart from this particular issue, we in Pakistan have been exposed to some poor sense of humor already by some channels, who are bent to be funny. I think it may have been done without a racist undertone but it sounds so ill-mannered, out of place. Please stop this promo.

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habib

Nov 13, 2009 12:29pm

Yes. Its a bad concept. One that we grew up with. One that is repeated every day of our lives. Lets see it within the appropriate cultural context. We've all seen worse adds on television. We are as racist as any nation is to be. And blissfully ignorant of the fact. True Muslim style.

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KKNIAZI

Nov 12, 2009 08:02pm

Its preposterous.

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Fran

Nov 12, 2009 08:02pm

True, from its description the ad sounds racist (I have not seen it, though I can guess which channel it is). But, having lived away from Pakistan for a while, I find that Pakistani's (and Indians, for that matter) are sort of casually racist. I am quite amazed at some of things I hear from supposedly educated people.

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desihungama

Nov 12, 2009 08:31pm

Um. I thought that song had already been dedicated to West Indies cricketers. hehehe

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Awais

Nov 13, 2009 10:30am

I think it was just meant to be light hearted fun the idea of playing that song its awesome hehe, just makes me laugh. I really don't understand the serious reaction shown in this column.

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hari

Nov 13, 2009 10:25am

I am an Indian(South Indian), and I am Black. I don't see anything wrong with this song/Promo. Its just my personal view, we already have lots of hatred between India and Pakistan, and I don't want to contribute in that. But I feel the Pakistani mindset is really very antithesis.

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hamad

Nov 12, 2009 09:49pm

We as Pakistani's cant even respect each other, how can we expect to respect other races? shame that all I can say.

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Imran

Nov 12, 2009 10:18pm

My goodness was it a funny commercial.

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Haroon

Nov 13, 2009 07:58pm

I think this ad is ridiculous and shameful. With all the people questioning "what is wrong with this song?". I'll tell you what is wrong. You are calling brown people black in a land where white would be the color of choice if you were given the choice. If you have not understood the lyrics of the song then you need to listen the song again. It is essentially saying 'what if I am black (as if being black was a weak point), but I have a big heart (that weakness is covered by virtue of having a big heart). You don't think there is any thing derogatory in this skin color wise. Think again.

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unknown

Nov 12, 2009 10:44pm

Well, its true this ad's background music is a strange choice.

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Mohsin Rashid

Nov 13, 2009 12:36am

Very Unfortunate, I think the electronic Media should understand its responsibilities and restrain itself from such racist and immature acts.

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Shakil

Nov 13, 2009 01:35am

Making fun of traits that really aren't in someones control is ignorant, un-Islmaic and really low. For example, color of skin, height, some disability... etc. But, Pakistani culture is full of these ignorant people.

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Khaleel Jebran

Nov 13, 2009 01:36am

Living in New Zealand for a couple of years now I feel embarrassed to tell people I am a Pakistani. I am frustrated with our country men's cheap mindset and behaviour. Just think guys, why is it only we have all the problems in the world and such a bad name globally?, Why cant we be nice and peaceful like other countries?. Today I am really ashamed to call myself a Pakistani. Indian muslims are living a far better life than us.

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zeeshan

Nov 13, 2009 06:49am

I had already mailed this issue to the TV channel and i also send texts to their online programs but they are not talking any action. What do u expect from Pakistani's.

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S H

Nov 13, 2009 06:15am

flash back 15 years or so and we used to hear on PTV "kalay deewanay bowling na jaanay" for West Indies? I mean why no one raised a voice at that time and now all this thing look so glorifying and mischievous. The thing is viewpoint. We are not westerners and never look into this light humor the way they do, the intention was obviously not bad and so as far as the audience targeted is Pakistani, i think its fine... The writer tried to imposed a single sided viewpoint from a single perspective irrelevant of the way Pakistani feel, we may be ethically divided but we never distinguish anyone through the color of their skin, even 80% don't even know in Pakistan what racism is? So the intention of ad was not wrong.

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Muhammed Ali Khan Niazi

Nov 13, 2009 03:37am

@TTiger This advertisement is appalling, shameless and a disgrace for the Pakistani Media. All people in Pakistan who think that this advertisement is funny, not inappropriate or that this add shows the free speech in media should understand that free speech is nothing but an ideology which media should respect and not abuse. When the controversial cartoons of beloved Holy Prophet (PBHU) were released the Muslims especially Pakistanis around the globe were protesting that the western countries free speech laws does not give their media the right to humiliate any one. Today our shameless media have done exactly the same. We should not only boycott watching this channel, we should also be guiding our youngsters to understand what

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SYED ALI SHIKOH

Nov 13, 2009 03:45am

Shame on the person who made this ad.

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Noman Ansari

Nov 13, 2009 06:15am

Basically the song says, "So what if we are black? Our hearts are strong." If you don't see what is offensive about that, then you need to sit down and think again. What the statement essentially says is *what if our skin color is dark? The strength of our heart makes up for our black skin* That is absolutely ridiculous.

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Abbas

Nov 13, 2009 04:24am

Hold on every one, What's the fuss about, this song is meant to say that there is nothing wrong in saying that one is proud to be black. & am I hearing some people say pemra, well they are the representatives of true elite class. This is the class which is truly afraid of the free media, because media is exposing all there sins like sugar mafia that's why taking every opportunity to criticise the media on even the smallest of mistakes. I think the free media is the best thing which has happened to Pakistan since its independence.

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Ali Pirzada

Nov 13, 2009 04:48am

I'm glad that someone wrote about this and showed her concerns. It shows the level of humor which these private channels seem to enjoy and air, just to attract the viewers.

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taemoor

Nov 13, 2009 04:51am

Well I want to make my point as a Muslim. Any discrimination based on color, race, religion, social status, nationality and other such characteristics is not only a condemned but also a crime and a sin. I think we have pretty much clear teaching about it. The Great Last Sermon by The Holy Prophet should be our charter in this regard. How can I condemn racist act of others against me if my own people are doing the same thing against some other people, which, ironically, are in the same so called category as we are. its a shame.

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asad

Nov 13, 2009 04:53am

Thank God someone else thinks the same way as well. The Sri Lankan embassy should seriously consider some action against the sad television channel/network. There is hardly any control in any of the news networks where their are free to write, produce and air whatever they feel like doing. The promo is a bad taste and its shameful. Sad state of affairs!

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Hassan Muhammad Azeem

Nov 13, 2009 04:54am

No personal offense meant to my friend 'adeel' but if your embarrassed by being recognized as a pakistani while living abroad then maybe you should stop identifying yourself as one. There's no point in keeping an identity if your embarrased of it.

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vilas

Nov 13, 2009 05:23am

Sir, In world other than Indian sub continant, "BLACK" is equated as a race as against in Indian sub "Black" is use as the skin color and no racism is involved and this article seems to be written for the sake of writing. We should be careful about others sentiments but we should not be so blind that we should forget our own culture and make it a fashion to find faults when there are none. I fail to understand why the article was written and more over published. A sensational article lacking any understanding as to what constitutes racism.

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MMS

Nov 13, 2009 04:59am

Very regrettable and embarrassing. More surprising is the fact that some people think it is alright in the name of humour and freedom of speech. What kind of humor is this? Freedom of speech does not mean to start commenting on someone skin colour.

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Ali Mehdi

Nov 13, 2009 04:59am

The Indian movies show clear hatred against our country. It is just one ad in which they tried to be funny. It could be termed a mistake in understanding our viewers. By quoting Indian movies example I am not trying to justify the contents of the ad. If they are doing something let them do it may be they don't have anything good to give us.

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Ozy3

Nov 13, 2009 04:59am

I'm not sure I understand the premise of racism here. First of all: Does the song glorify white supremacy? I don't think so - it reflects pride in one's race despite not being white. In short, it reflects post-colonial pride in one's ethnicity despite lingering global perceptions of white colonial masters. The implication that "we" are worthy despite being non-white is hardly a racist slur upon others. I think we're all rushing to judgment without taking the context into account. How can we insult someone by saying that they're like us? Seems their is some identity crisis issues with the writer.

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Nadeem Sheikh

Nov 13, 2009 09:55pm

This promo is just one example. Just check out the other program on this channel. Free Media but illiterate people to run it. Let's face it, we can not handle media freedom. Who would allow such promo? only unqualified people.

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ahsan bodla

Nov 13, 2009 10:17pm

I watched that promo. That's really ridiculous. But it was not much surprising for me, cause its very common for this channel to do such things. I think they should learn something now.

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Curious

Nov 13, 2009 10:46pm

Salman Tariq I couldn't agree with you more on what you've written. But I disagree somewhat to what you've stated : "The bottom line is simple, our news networks will continue to generate cheap laughs as long as there

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gautam

Nov 13, 2009 11:35pm

Ms. Hafsa, "Dil walay hain" should be translated as sportsmen "with a heart' not " hearty sportsmen". The two mean completely different things in English.

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Ali

Nov 14, 2009 01:26am

This might not be deliberate act of racism, Pakistani's cannot be racist, Definition of a Racist = a person with a prejudiced belief that one race is superior to others. Racism is a thing which someone from very civilized world would not do. But it gives a very nice picture of Pakistan's irresponsible and unprofessional media and also Pakistan as a 'nation'. I am glad something like this came up so that people of Pakistan themselves realize the fact that they are very immature and way behind the rest of the world. Whether it be loud speakers of 'Madarassas' or the 'Media' it has always been very easy to get Pakistani's to follow some ideology like sheep's.

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Hugo Boss

Nov 14, 2009 07:51am

Good to know that India-Sri Lanka Match will be telecast in Pakistan.

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Ali

Nov 14, 2009 02:03am

Watching such a major T.V channel broadcast this promo makes me believe that it is going to take very long time for us to even think of becoming like our many fellow human beings. Now you may disagree with that, but that's my opinion.

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hasan

Nov 14, 2009 08:01am

There are many posters here who seem to think the ad is all in good fun. They have the view, 'hey this is just humor,nothing rude so, enjoy it!' I would like to ask them this: We are touring New Zealand later this month. Suppose in New Zealand's TV Channels, they show the picture of our captain and then the voice in background says, "I might not look what I am, but I am the Pakistan Cricket Captain ! Come and play ball with me!" Then what would be your reaction?

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Ayil Ali

Nov 14, 2009 02:53am

Why is black considered a bad thing? the debate should start from there, instead of already assuming that black is bad. That sort of post Colonial complex should stop.

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iqbal

Nov 14, 2009 04:08am

How come no one came with the suggestion that its a conspiracy by others??

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Jehangir

Nov 14, 2009 04:27am

I look at the issue differently from those who felt it emotionally. Colors are all good, varieties of colors make things beautiful. Why blacks should feel they are inferior to whites? Moreover those who have produced this ads are themselves black. Are Pakistani's or Indian's whites? So all these three people have more or less the same complexion. But this is not the first and the only case of our media mostly dominated by urdu speakings that they have mocked a people. They have frequently been mocking Urdu of Pathan's in their TV programs. Has any one of us raised any objection to such insults. But instead we enjoy them with big smiles on our faces. It is natural that people enjoy slight insults of others but that should not be taken seriously. All human beings belong to a large family and as it is common in every society in every small family members specially brothers and sisters sometimes call each others with ugly names just for the sake of enjoyment.

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Tariq Niazi

Nov 14, 2009 07:18am

Really shameful act by this channel. Our so called media even didn't take notice only except Dawn. Why we are forgetting manners. Well Done.

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momna gull

Nov 14, 2009 06:51am

The channel which you are talking about is not promoting cricket but it promoting itself by using Masala song no matter it would cause any serious issue.

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ajah

Nov 14, 2009 05:26am

Shameful for us, Why because people who lost their respect in their own eyes can not give respect to others.

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Faraz Shah

Nov 14, 2009 05:29am

The song mentioned does not hint racism. Its a very famous song and originally sung for us, by us, the subcontinent people. We often sing this song referring to ourself and its by no means derogatory. However I do agree that it might offend those who do not know the history of this famous song and I agree that the marketing and branding team of an international sports channel should never make such negligent errors which score criticism.

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Osama Malik

Nov 14, 2009 06:07am

Dear all, Firstly great service by the author. Truly its only by becoming aware we can achieve the harmony and peace in our society, what fascinates me is the types of people that run such channels or in fact that they are actually allowed to do so, shows an imminent need of overhauling such aspects of our society. Something that is not only condemned by Islam but was specially mentioned in the "Khutba-e-hijatul widaa" by the prophet. Honestly I am hating how our society is stuck between wither the liberal fascists or the extremists, where is the true us, the moderates by both culture and religion! Anyway, thanks again...

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Ali

Nov 14, 2009 07:20am

Even if the song is famous, even if we think its alright, its not about us its about the people this song is directed to. We cant be completly sure that they will like this promo because this song is famous and it does not mean we talk about other people the way we want too, we should put other people's culture into consideration.

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Naveed Iqbal

Nov 14, 2009 07:53am

I don't think this song portrays any racist issues. You have to listen to the whole song in order to understand it's true meaning. We as South Asians have always had this brown skin inferiority complex for some reason. The people with fairer complexions in Europe envy us as we look more attractive, we age less and do not catch sun that easy. A growing number of dark skin models are representing top Designers these days. So we shouldn't have this Brown or dark skin complex at all. Yes provided the racial sensitivity these days, this news channel should have been more thoughtful in their selection of the song. Sorry to say this Miss Hafsa, but you can't take two words out of the whole song and write an article about it. You have to consider the whole context and background of this song.

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Ali

Nov 14, 2009 09:40am

Some posters are not differentiating between racism and responsibility. The Author is not complaining about the song being racist or brown people being inferior, its not about the color of the skin, Its about how a major media channel could not put things into consideration before making such step. I wonder if they have a policy which states "to make sure not to offend people from any race, culture or religion"

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Mrityunjay Tripathi

Nov 14, 2009 09:30am

It's an issue of 'political correctness'. Moreover its not a personal or family thing. It's being broadcast on TV. Some comment are humorous or offending, can only be decided by the the person on the receiving end. At home, it can be finished by saying 'sorry', but on TV? We Indians and Pakistanis start protesting even on slightest racist insinuation in The West, but in our own countries, we have little regard for the sensitivities.

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Faramerz

Nov 14, 2009 09:31am

Kudos to the author and DAWN news for pointing this out. The song itself could be light hearted with no racial under tone intended, but in the context in which it is played, it is surely leaves an unsavoury taste in ones mouth.

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Khalid

Nov 14, 2009 10:39am

"The promo pretty much leaves me speechless" that's what she say. It is the understatement of the century. It left me pretty much fuming. Can in this day and age, any one can be so senseless. I always had a very low opinion about that particular news group. It seems insulting some one is the best way of grabbing attention.

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Bijoy Jose

Nov 14, 2009 11:39am

Hey, I have a high regard for most of them who have commented on this article, although I feel sorry for the person who presented the article. To truly understand and respect others views or actions one needs to start by accepting and respecting oneself. Unless we start focusing inwards on ourselves and developing ourselves we will never truly grow as a nation. Our focus is likely to be on bringing down others and the consequences of which can be seen in our country now.

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Muhammad Tahir Mazari

Nov 14, 2009 11:47am

Indeed. The author has a very strong point there and the remarks are quite telling. Media in Pakistan is still struggling to grow out of its childhood and it will take it some time to do so. I can recollect a number of such incidents reflecting the irresponsible attitude of our independent channels. They better behave before people start losing confidence in them. I lost mine a long time ago.

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Malik

Nov 14, 2009 03:23pm

The electronic media, it seems, is working without the institution of Editor. And that is why you have such blunders when there is nobody to decide about such things. Unfortunately over the last 15 years, the owners of the newspapers have taken over the responsibility of editors, having editors but only in the name. In the past Pakistani journalism had strong editors whose word was final. The media houses' owners need to withdraw and give back competent professional journalists the role of editor. Only then we will have better monitor and sensible coverage. Otherwise this will continue.

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Fahad

Nov 14, 2009 04:03pm

This is so unbelievable and shameful. We are heading towards social and moral decay at light-speed almost.

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K Hussain

Nov 14, 2009 04:17pm

As I mentioned in my earlier post the standard of education in Pakistan leaves a lot to be desired. This is evident in all fields, this is one example of intellect from the broadcasting community. I recently watched a comedy show where one character rated another's ugliness using the "sari sri lanka ki team" as a benchmark. Being a Pakistani myself, I am ashamed and disappointed at the direction my countrymen are heading.

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Saad

Nov 14, 2009 05:01pm

Really, the point here isn't that this song is "for us, by us" or that it helps rid of the inferiority complex created by skin colour, but the fact that *this* particular song is used and the butt(hit or push) of this really insensitive "joke" is really obvious when played as the background to the Sri Lankan team montage. I'm sure this song may have meant something in the original context, but it doesn't take many smarts to realize the point behind this application. Any apologetics are quite useless in trying to explain how this song is not discriminatory in this context.

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KJB

Nov 16, 2009 12:50pm

@ Arshid ZAidi I second your views. Some channels seem bent upon to dictate the populace about the Highly appreciable role they are playing.

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Sajid

Nov 14, 2009 07:27pm

Author has said "In an age where tolerance, diversity, and respect" so have tolerance towards this song and it's context as well. Just hear it, laugh, and move along.

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Hassan

Nov 14, 2009 07:29pm

The Srilankans are very nice to us, that is not the way to respect some one who respects you. Firstly that a very bad promo, secondly the pemra who ever is in charge should keep an eye on our sports channel and last this is racism, not funny in any sense. Sad.

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Nov 14, 2009 09:59pm

Seriously, what is wrong with the media?

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Shahid

Nov 14, 2009 10:22pm

Since both team are from sub-continent, racism does not play a role here. If West Indies were part of the series, then one can say racism is playing a role. In any event any conspiracies should be avoided, leave cricket game for entertainment and not politics or racism.

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Subiyyal

Nov 15, 2009 02:03am

Some would think this is a good issue. But its not an issue if you want it to be. I thought we were all past that.

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sultan virani

Nov 15, 2009 02:07am

The author needs to chill. There is nothing wrong with either being kalay or dil waley. You can call me either or both anytime.

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Nov 15, 2009 04:12am

People who did this have no understanding of the difference between humor and racism. We are in debt of the people of Srilanka. They always come to our help in times of great need. I guess the people of this sports channel should ponder on this age old saying " A friend in need is a friend indeed".

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Zia Jafri

Nov 15, 2009 04:35am

Whatever the pioneer sports channel did express, showed the policy of the TV Network. To be noticed its just not in the grounds of cricket or whatever, but these feelings are sorted on all the other channels being run by the Network. Anyhow the majority of the Nation took it as a matter of humor or fun!

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Karim S

Nov 15, 2009 06:53am

For those who feel that it's all in jest and perfectly okay, Imagine the scenario if a promo were to air in the US for a visiting Pakistani soccer team: "Yes, we're Muslims, but we can play football!" would you go "ha ha what a joke guys!"? perhaps not.

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Saeed Nizamani

Nov 15, 2009 07:27am

I think writer is bit too emotional. Please don't split the hair.

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Malik

Nov 15, 2009 08:50am

Very right. Our media is so irresponsible and we can see lot of examples these days. Just take the example of Meera marriage scandal and also English. How they can telecast the clip (when she does not know that Camera is ON). MEDIA is becoming God in our country now. Now if Govt tries to do something then they just boycott everything. Do they have right to take photos of anybody walking on the road? I saw many photos of Students in IIU (during suicide attack) even with their exposed body parts.

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Fauzia Ahmad

Nov 15, 2009 08:53am

I want to comment on Yousuf who has just been appointed captain. I will not be surprised if Yousuf will start the match first by reciting few holy verses on the pitch, fasting on the day of the match and perhaps inviting Daniel Vetori towards Islam.... I do hope he will treat cricket as a game and will not start projecting his personal beliefs like Inzimam did and attracted so much criticism from all around the globe. Yousuf, please remember religion is your personal matter, please don

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Arshad Zaidi

Nov 15, 2009 09:52am

We all know this channel as well as other channels of this media company. Truly they are champions of all sort of negative propaganda. I am delighted to write that channels of this group are under password protection at my home. I don

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Aurangzeb

Nov 17, 2009 02:27pm

Some times they don't understand the difference between foolishness and light humor. Look at 'Meera episode', they crossed every ethical line in humiliating her, I feel pity for her. And how they use playback songs on different events, is there any decency in it??

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Anil Kumar

Nov 17, 2009 08:02pm

Why this sudden outburst of revulsion over color slur in Pakistan. I am yet to see even single drama by popular comedian where he doesn't make fun of the dark color of Bengali's and Srilankans. Color joke is the common on Pakistani comedy show. Even the cast slur is used profusely and one of Pakistan comedian found himself in trouble for using the word bhangi on Indian channels. Apparently this news channel is not doing anything different.

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