Spotlight: Rahat and all things Pakistani
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan considers Karachi an important venue for his performances, and he makes it a point to perform in the city frequently. On his visit to the city last week, he got in touch with Images on Sunday for a thorough update.
The biggest music story of this year is inarguably Rahat’s performance to a packed house at the United Nations General Assembly hall on the eve of Pakistan Day. The concert entitled Sufi Night — Music of Peace was aimed at spreading the message of international peace and harmony on the world stage.
“It was a wonderful experience. Firstly, it was Pakistan Day, which is an important day for every Pakistani, including myself. I could literally feel the spirit of patriotism coursing through me as I performed in front of the packed audience. Secondly, the attendees were so well-reputed. The concert was attended by diplomats, UN officials and representatives of civil society, media and others. It was a great feeling to be able to represent Pakistan on such a platform. Thirdly, I thoroughly enjoyed the performance as an artist. As Dama Dam Mast Qalandar was played out, the entire hall rose up and started singing in unison. I don’t think there has ever been a bigger moment of pride for any artist.”
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan makes Pakistan proud by performing at the United Nations General Assembly on Pakistan Day!
The performance proves that our music plays a vital role in the promotion of a positive image of Pakistan in the global arena. Rahat seconds this notion. “The late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan performed at various international festivals. All such performances project the creative and positive side of Pakistan. Here, I would specially like to request our government to support the cause of music by facilitating musicians to attend various festivals where they can perform free of cost.”