Atif Aslam: Singer and actor Atif Aslam is considered one of the most influential figures in the Pakistani entertainment industry and is thus widely admired. Recently, a statement allegedly made by the ‘Tera Hone Laga Hoon’ singer won applause from all corners. It was reported that Atif denied performing in Saudi Arabia due to the close proximity to religious sites.
Several media houses and artists shared that Atif refused, citing the reason, “My heart does not accept performing songs near holy places.” Fans, impressed by the decision, massively shared the post, making it go viral.
However, Atif has now clarified that no such statement was issued by him, and one should verify the news’ authenticity before circulating it on social media. While talking to journalist Maliha Rehman, Atif said, “It is funny and strange that statements that I have never made get connected with me. Media and the artiste community have the responsibility to check the validity of a statement before reporting it and making comments on it. We have performed in the past in Riyadh- perhaps this is the best way of proving our opinion on the topic at hand.”
Posting the same, Maliha wrote, “There have been reports all over social media that artist #AtifAslam has declared that he would not perform near holy places which is why he doesn’t perform in Saudi Arabia. It turns out that the statement was never made … and Atif and his band have already performed in the past in Riyadh!”
The clarification did not land well with the audience. People took to the comment section and criticised him for disrespecting religious sentiments and not understanding the gravity of the situation. “Jo insan tohin wale alfaaz gane ga sakta hai uske liye Saudi Arab mein perform karna kaun si Badi baat hai,” wrote one person. (If someone can sing songs with objectionable language, then performing in Saudi Arabia shouldn’t be a significant issue for them)
Old Video Regarding Riyadh Concert Goes Viral
After the news went viral, an old video from 2019, where Atif is seen announcing his Riyadh tour, has resurfaced on social media. Introducing himself in the video, he said, “Hi, this is Atif Aslam and I am very excited to perform for the very first time in Saudi Arabia on Friday, 25th of October, 2019, in Riyadh. Book your tickets right now.”
"Hello my friends, I'm happy to tell you that i will be performing in Saudi Arabia for the first time on Friday October 25 2019 in Riyadh at the international stage during the Riyadh Season. Tickets available at https://t.co/knRzee8DAu – see you there!"#atifaslam #Riyadh #KSA pic.twitter.com/eENnGjV6po
— Atif Aslam (@itsaadee) October 23, 2019
About Atif Aslam
Atif Aslam is a well-known name not just in Pakistan but worldwide, including India. He has worked extensively with Indian filmmakers and music composers, producing hits like ‘Pehli Nazar Mein’, ‘Beinteha’, ‘Jaane De’, and ‘Oo Saathi’.
Atif Aslam’s Coke Studio renditions have also been extremely popular among fans, with standout performances including ‘Taajdar-e-Haram’, ‘Charkha Nolakha’, and ‘Tu Kuja Man Kuja’
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