“My unpaid PR team… NOT NICE!” Furious Pritam snaps after Cocktail 2's Mashooqa copy claims explode

The internet is once again divided over a Bollywood song, and this time, the spotlight has fallen on the Cocktail 2 track Mashooqa. Ever since the romantic dance number featuring Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon dropped online, social media users have been busy drawing comparisons between its tune and a 1993 Italian song. While fans praised the sizzling chemistry and stylish visuals, another conversation quickly took over the internet, allegations that the song sounds strikingly similar to an old Italian track.

Internet Compares Mashooqa To 1993 Italian Song

The chatter began after clips from Mashooqa started circulating on X, Instagram and Reddit. Several users claimed that parts of the melody resembled Se So Arrubate A Nonna, a comic Neapolitan song released in 1993 by Italian duo Bibi & Coco. The track, though not globally mainstream, has maintained a niche cult fanbase over the years.

As comparison videos spread rapidly online, many listeners pointed at similarities in the rhythm and composition style. Some users accused the makers of lifting the tune, while others argued that musical inspiration and overlapping sounds are common in the industry.

The song has been composed by Pritam, with lyrics by Amitabh Bhattacharya. Vocals have been provided by Raghav Chaitanya and Mahmood Ruaa Kayy, who also reportedly wrote and performed the Italian portions featured in the track.

Pritam Reacts To The Backlash

As the criticism gained momentum online, Pritam addressed the controversy through a sharply worded Instagram Story. Without directly naming the Italian song, the composer mocked what he called “self-appointed music detectives” who, according to him, search for similarities every time one of his songs releases.

He sarcastically referred to them as his “unpaid PR team” and expressed frustration over repeated “inspired by” accusations attached to his work. His statement quickly went viral, with fans and critics both weighing in on the issue.

Interestingly, this is far from the first time Pritam’s music has landed in the middle of such debates. Over the years, the hit composer has often been accused online of taking inspiration from international tracks, especially during the early phase of his career. Despite the repeated controversies, he continues to remain one of Bollywood’s biggest music names with successful albums like Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Barfi!, Ae Dil Hai Mushkil and others under his belt.

Cocktail 2 Already Creating Buzz Before Release

Directed by Homi Adajania, Cocktail 2 stars Shahid Kapoor, Kriti Sanon and Rashmika Mandanna in lead roles. The film is being promoted as a spiritual follow-up to the 2012 hit Cocktail, which featured Saif Ali Khan, Deepika Padukone and Diana Penty.

Even before its release, the film has managed to stay in headlines, whether for its fresh pairing, glamorous songs or now, the music controversy surrounding Mashooqa.