The internet is currently buzzing over an AI-generated version of the song "Saiyaara," originally sung by Faheem Abdullah, in the style of the legendary Kishore Kumar. This unique rendition, created by musicians RJ Kisna and Anshuman Sharma, has captured the hearts of millions, sparking a wave of nostalgia and appreciation for both the classic voice and modern technology.
The original song "Saiyaara," written by Irshad Kamil and sung by Faheem Abdullah, has already achieved significant success. It became the first Bollywood song to enter Spotify's Global Top 50, resonating particularly with Gen Z as an anthem of love and longing. The film "Saiyaara" itself, directed by Mohit Suri and starring Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, has been a box office hit, earning ₹266 crore.
However, the AI-generated version has taken the song's popularity to another level. RJ Kisna and Anshuman Sharma used artificial intelligence to simulate Kishore Kumar's voice, blending it seamlessly with the modern romantic tune. The result is a captivating and emotional experience that has resonated deeply with listeners.
Fans have flooded social media with heartfelt reactions, praising the rendition as "surreal" and a "heartfelt tribute" to Kishore Kumar's timeless legacy. Many have commented on how the AI version evokes a sense of nostalgia, transporting them back to the golden era of Hindi music. Some fans have even gone as far as saying that the AI version is "better than the original" and "more soulful". One user commented, "This song speaks the language of our soul," while another added, "Omg, far better than the original". The video posted by Sharma on Instagram with the caption, “If Saiyaara was a Kishore da song!” has gone viral.
The success of the AI cover has sparked discussions about the ethics of using AI to recreate the voices of deceased artists. While some view it as a respectful homage and a way to keep their legacy alive, others question whether it constitutes an overreach. One user said, “It's like eating chicken biryani on a plastic plate. The voice is too grand for the song,” while another fan quipped, “Using AI the right way — this is magic”.
Regardless of the ethical considerations, the AI-generated "Saiyaara" has undoubtedly struck a chord with a wide audience. It has not only revitalized the song's presence but also introduced Kishore Kumar's iconic voice to a new generation. The overwhelming positive response has led to demands for a full version of the AI cover, as well as requests for similar renditions featuring other legendary singers like Mohammad Rafi. Some fans are requesting Spotify releases of the song.
The phenomenon highlights the power of AI in music and its potential to bridge the gap between different eras. It also demonstrates the enduring appeal of Kishore Kumar's voice, which continues to captivate music lovers even decades after his passing. The "Saiyaara" AI cover serves as a testament to the power of music to evoke emotions, transcend generations, and spark conversations about the intersection of technology and art. Mohit Suri's 'Saiyaara' is a massive hit, earning ₹217.25 crore in 9 days.