The search for Pakistan’s next singing sensation is back

After a gap of eleven years Pakistani idol returned to television, positioning itself as a platform for undiscovered talent from across the country and a test of whether a reality show in Pakistan can deliver on merit. The second season brings together contestants from cities like Sukkur, Multan and Karachi, many of whom are taking to the national stage for the first time. For them, the show represents a rare opportunity to be judged alongside peers rather than connections.

The original Pakistani idol aired in 2013 as part of the global Idol franchise, with Zamad Baig emerging victorious. The show then disappeared without a second season, making its return in 2024 a moment watched closely by music audiences. This season’s judging panel includes Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Bilal Maqsood, Zeb Bangash and Fawad Khan, a line-up meant to lend credibility to the competition.

Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has described the show as more than a performance-based competition. According to him, the focus is on education and development and not just TV success. “Pakistan Idol is not just about singing,” he said. “It’s about training artists. We teach them the finer nuances of music.”

Producers say the show is designed to address longstanding concerns about reality TV, particularly allegations of biased scripted eliminations and unreliable voting systems. “Pakistan Idol is 100% organic and unbiased,” said Tanveer Afridi, talent director of the show, speaking to The Express Tribune. “We are not allowed to show favoritism to any contestant. The judges make independent decisions and we cross-check them with the public vote. So far no decision has been biased.”

Despite these assurances, controversy followed the season. Senior singer Humaira Arshad and veteran actor Sangeeta publicly criticized the jury, particularly Fawad Khan. One of the Top 16 contestants M. Abrar Shahid announced on social media that he is withdrawing from the competition. “I was not given a fair chance,” Shahid said in a video post, which he later deleted. The production team rejected these claims, maintaining that the process remains transparent and consistent with the rules of the contest.

Among the contestants who made it to the Top 16 is Waqar Hussain from Korangi area of ​​Karachi. Hussain, who hails from a musical family, has emerged as one of the standout performers this season. Hussain’s father Imdad Hussain is a sitarist while his brother Ashfaq Hussain is associated with Sufi music. “Pakistan Idol brought a major change in my life. This platform not only gave me recognition but also strengthened my belief in my dreams,” he said.

Former first season judge Bushra Ansari commented on the current lineup, praising the quality of voices emerging from different regions. “Pakistan Idol brings good singers forward,” he said. “These guys are tuneful and in tune.” He singled out contestant Hira Qaiser, adding: “I watch these kids on TikTok, they sing beautifully. In Faisalabad, melody is scattered everywhere.”

The auditions held in cities like Sukkur and Multan reportedly attracted thousands of participants, including a large number of young women, which the producers describe as a significant change. “It was incredibly encouraging to see girls coming from cities like Multan and Sukkur,” said Afridi. “Pakistan Idol boosted their confidence.”

As the season progresses, the show’s reception continues to play out on social media platforms, where clips are widely circulated and opinion quickly formed. “We have proven that the flavor of our music is unique,” Afridi said.

With the gala rounds underway, including a wedding season-themed episode that aired last week, Pakistani idol continues its quest to re-establish itself as a national platform for emerging voices.