Shaan Shahid’s comments on Qawwali and music’s religious status trigger mixed reactions from fans and critics online.
Shaan Shahid has sparked a heated debate after his recent remarks about music and Qawwali during a film event celebrating the success of his Punjabi film Bhullah.
The actor also compared Pakistani music with Indian productions, asserting that while India produces a large volume of music, it often lacks the lasting emotional impact found in traditional Pakistani genres like Qawwali.
Speaking at the event, Shaan Shahid addressed the ongoing discourse around music’s religious permissibility. He stated that before debating whether music is halal or haram, Qawwali should be recognized as halal and appreciated as a vital part of Pakistan’s cultural heritage. He emphasized that the country is fortunate to possess such a rich musical tradition and urged the government to promote Qawwali globally through cultural initiatives.
However, his comments quickly drew criticism on social media. Many users disagreed with his stance, arguing that Qawwali involves musical instruments and therefore cannot be classified as halal. Some commenters questioned his authority to make religious claims, while others accused him of oversimplifying a sensitive theological issue.
Despite the backlash, some supporters defended Shaan Shahid, stating that his remarks were intended to highlight cultural appreciation rather than issue religious rulings.
The debate underscores the ongoing tension between cultural expression and religious interpretation in Pakistan’s entertainment landscape.


