Salman Ahmad speaks out on the ban put on Pakistani artists in India

Even though it has been quite some time to the Uri attacks, the ban imposed on Pakistani artists in India sees no sign of being lifted up. In fact, things have been getting worse than ever. After Babul Supriyo recently called out for a ban on Pakistani singers in Indian films, a new order has been issued by the Federation Of Western India Cine Employs.

Following this development, Salman Ahmad spoke out on the ban put on Pakistani Artists in India, while talking to fellow Pakistani musicians, namely Atif Aslam, Arieb Azhar, Haroon & Faakhir of Awaaz amongst others, on a music forum; “Pakistani artists have always had big hearts and a vision for peace in the region, while the Indian Hindutva supporters in government and media have always seen Pakistani artists as a threat to their hegemony”, which seems to be truth as they don’t want to develop peaceful relations with the neighboring country.

Salman Ahmad further stated, ”It’s been a fact that many of our artists seek for better livelihood and fame by working in India, and India doesn’t speak well for our country.”

Which, if taken in its core essence, is the bitter reality. Talking about how the aforementioned situations be remedied,  Salman Ahmad said, ”We must put pressure on our media to promote our music and art. There’s not a single music channel anymore except for ARY Music. The Music that’s been bought by Coke Studio, has been amazing. We also need to promote more and more public concerts in public spaces with affordable ticket prices because that could prove to be a game changer for our music industry.”

“We have to rectify this situation for Art and Culture at home, and not promote bans for artists anywhere. During the Zia era several of our artist associations sold out to the prevalent fascist mindset of the state, the same they are doing today in Modi’s era in India. Our war is against mindsets, not countries,” shared Salman Ahmad, artist associated with Junoon & Vital Signs, doctor & a Goodwill Ambassador for Rotary international.

Junoon’s reunion being planned after 25 years, Salman Ahmed confirms!

As Salman Ahmed puts it, our focus should be on building up on our own industry.  Speaking of his mind, he says that it’s time to focus on building Unity & Hope in Pakistan with creative excellence.

”The rest of the world will recognize the true cultural strength of Pakistan, when the artists come together as ONE”, exclaimed Salman Ahmad.