An artist always needs appreciation or positive criticism for his or her work. Those who find both of them in a country, they flourish and those who dont, they wither away. Some unfortunate artists have potential but the industry in their country does not acknowledge them. Some of these artists feel discouraged and quit while others keep on moving and are hijacked by foreign art lovers.
Same is the case with Pakistani singers in the present era. They surely can do wonders if Pakistans music industry utilises them and highlights their talent. Having no other option, Pakistani singers usually move to Indias music industry which admires them, utilises their efforts, highlights their USP and pays them handsome. Pakistan has seen much brain drain in recent years and this habit has become popular amongst young musicians and singers. Noor Jahaan, Mehdi Hassan, Ustad Amanat Ali Khan, Ustad Ghulam Ali Khan and Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan were some of the legends of Pakistani music industry and they also brought fame to the country. But now the situation is different, ground realities have changed and the Indian music industry stands in the limelight with the impetus provided by Pakistani singers.
No one except the Pakistan showbiz industry itself is responsible for this chaos.
FRAAZ MAHMUD
Lahore
