Cocktail 2's Mashooqa Sparks Debate Over Similarities to Italian Classic

The song 'Mashooqa' from 'Cocktail 2' featuring Kriti Sanon and Shahid Kapoor has stirred debate online due to its perceived similarities to the 1993 Italian song 'Se So Arrubate A Nonna.' While some defend the track as a legitimate sampling, others accuse it of copying. The cultural significance of the original Italian song and the reactions from netizens add layers to this unfolding musical controversy. As the film's release date approaches, the discussions surrounding 'Mashooqa' continue to gain traction.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2026, 15:55 IST

Mashooqa Unveiled

The recently released song Mashooqa from Cocktail 2, featuring Kriti Sanon and Shahid Kapoor, showcases their sizzling chemistry. Composed by Pritam and penned by Amitabh Bhattacharya, the track is performed by Raghav Chaitanya, Mahmood, and Ruaa Kayy, incorporating Italian musical elements. As anticipation builds for the film's trailer, some listeners have pointed out that the song's rhythm bears a resemblance to the 1993 Italian hit Se So Arrubate A Nonna. The film's producers have yet to comment on these claims, but a portion of the online community has come to the song's defense.

Allegations of Copying

Cocktail 2's Mashooqa copied?

A discussion on Reddit suggested that Mashooqa is a derivative work of Se So Arrubate A Nonna, originally by Bibi and Coco, which was part of their 1993 album Le Origini Vol. 2. While the Cocktail 2 track has garnered positive feedback, the Italian original, despite not achieving mainstream success, has retained a dedicated following.

Public Reactions

Netizens react

In defense of Mashooqa, one user remarked, “This is sampling, not theft. It involves taking a song's main beat and adding different instruments and lyrics. This practice is common in the music industry, with artists like Pitbull and Taylor Swift also sampling.” Another user noted, “Sampling is a legal process where the original artist receives royalties based on usage. I wonder if Pritam actually sampled it or simply plagiarized, as he has done in the past.” Others chimed in, stating, “It doesn’t even sound alike,” and “Let us enjoy the song, at least!”

Cultural Significance of Se So Arrubate A Nonna

All you need to know about Se So Arrubate A Nonna

Se So Arrubate A Nonna holds cultural importance as it celebrates Neapolitan comedic folk music, characterized by exaggerated storytelling, catchy rhythms, and humorous lyrics. The title translates to 'They Kidnapped Grandma,' reflecting a playful and theatrical style that was popular in the 1990s. This song is significant for preserving local linguistic identity and folk performance, especially during a time when Italian pop was on the rise.

Details on Mashooqa

More about Mashooqa

Filmed in Sicily, Mashooqa is described by Kriti as a ‘groovy and flirty’ number, while Shahid refers to it as ‘pure summer energy.’

About Cocktail 2

Cocktail 2, directed by Homi Adajania, features Rashmika Mandanna as Diya, Shahid as Kunal, and Kriti as Ally. The film, produced by Maddock Films, is set to hit theaters worldwide on June 19.