Rahat Fateh Ali Khan says the performance followed his family’s century-old Qawali tradition and insists he remained respectful at Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s grave.
Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has defended his decision to perform Qawali at the grave of legendary Qawali singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan on his death anniversary, saying the act was part of his family’s longstanding tradition.
The performance drew significant criticism on social media, prompting Rahat Fateh Ali Khan to address the controversy during an appearance on Naeem Hanif’s YouTube show on RNN.
Rahat said criticism from some netizens was also a form of affection, while dismissing comments from people he believes do not understand Qawali traditions.
“I would like to say that netizens criticize out of love; it is their way of showing love,” Rahat said. He added that his family had followed the tradition for about 100 years and that he did not regret continuing it.
“Whatever I did was part of my family tradition, and I don’t regret that,” he said.
Rahat also explained that he and the other performers did not stand inside the grave while reciting Qawalis. According to the singer, they remained around the edges of the grave and maintained a respectful posture throughout the performance.
“One thing I want to say is that, as we were standing on the edges of the grave, we recited at the edges of the grave. We didn’t stand inside it, and I was very respectful,” he said.
He said his body language during the performance also reflected his respect for Nusrat, whom he regarded as a beloved family member.
Rahat further said that Quran Khuwani and prayers were held before the Qawali performance, adding that the religious observances preceded the musical tribute.
The controversy has sparked renewed discussion online about traditional Qawali practices at the graves of revered Sufi and Qawali figures. Rahat, however, maintained that his actions were rooted in his family’s established tradition and that he had no regrets about the tribute.
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