Ghazal maestro Ghulam Ali is a revered and renowned personality, both in India and Pakistan. The ghazal maestro made headlines late last year after Indian extremist group Shiv Sena threatened him against performing in Mumbai and Lucknow. Ghulam Ali’s concerts were canceled by organisers owing to the Shiv Sena threats. Ghulam Ali recently said he was also mindful of how some of his supporters were even in the ranks of Shiv Sena.
“I know that lots of people from Shiv Sena admire me a lot, but political compulsions and their view of national interests may dictate otherwise. It’s not that they don’t want Ghulam Ali to perform in their city but they might be having a problem with the country from where I come from,” Ghulam Ali said.
“Being an artiste, I had got confused keeping in mind the situation. Artistes are emotional people and I get upset when someone talks to me in a loud voice. So, I was not in the right frame of mind to come and perform (here),” he said.
Ghulam Ali frankly said the Shiv Sena saga had not deterred him or hurt him in any way. His love for India was still very much present.
“My sentiments for India have become stronger. The episode involving the Shiv Sena has not at all affected my love for the country. My well-wishers and fans are everywhere, including India, Pakistan, Hong Kong, Australia and the US. They never disappoint me and shower love whenever I perform in their country.”
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