Atif Aslam Opens Up On India Ban, Asks Fans Not To Feel 'Sad': 'I Miss You Guys'

Atif Aslam has opened up about being banned in India. In a recent conversation with Kris Fade, the Pakistani singer shared that he respects the Indian government’s decision and claimed that despite the ban, his fans listen to his music via VPN.

“It’s been almost 10 years since I was banned in India. That was the decision of the Indian government; they decided to ban artistes from Pakistan. Indian artistes are also banned in Pakistan now,” he said, as quoted by The Indian Express.

“For the past 10 years, I haven’t done a song there. My fans are listening over VPN and they burn the CDs and give them to people. Not that I appreciate piracy, but music will reach wherever it has to reach,” the singer continued.

“That is how my first single got out.

Nobody knew who the guy was. The song became famous; it became a huge success all over radio, CDs and cassettes,” he added.

Atif Aslam further asked his fans not to feel sad and stated, “It’s alright that there are certain artistes you get to hear, but I bet if you love me enough, you will know where to find me. If you love my music, you know where to find me. My music will definitely reach you.”

“Don’t feel bad about it, don’t feel sad about it. I always wanted to tell you that I miss you guys. I don’t miss working over there, but I miss you guys.”

Atif Aslam also mentioned that the ban made him focus on his independent music. “I have learnt a lot from playback singing and if this ban didn’t happen, I think I would be unable to make my own music. So I thank you guys for that as well,” he said. “I thank those who have banned me as well, otherwise I wouldn’t be able to explore myself,” the singer concluded.

For the unversed, Atif Aslam has had a hugely successful musical journey in India. After beginning his career with the Pakistani band Jal and the hit song Aadat, he launched his solo album Jal Pari in 2004. His Bollywood debut came in 2005 with ‘Woh Lamhe’ from Zeher, which became an instant favourite. He went on to lend his distinctive voice to films including Kalyug, Bas Ek Pal, Race, Kismat Konnection, Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani, Prince, Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya and Baaghi 2.