Days before he was to perform in Delhi, Pakistani singer Ghulam Ali’s concert has been cancelled, say reports. This comes a month after the ghazal singer’s concert was cancelled in Mumbai after threats from the Shiv Sena.
Ghulam Ali was given an invitation to perform in Delhi by the Aam Aadmi Party government after the cancellation of his Mumbai programme. The concert in the national capital was scheduled to be held on November 8.
Soon after the date for Delhi concert was announced, Shiv Sena had issued an ultimatum for Delhi, saying that it will not allow the concert to take place. The Delhi government had said that it would put together all resources and post AAP volunteers for additional security to ensure the concert happens.
Delhi tourism minister Kapil Mishra, who was instrumental in organizing the event, said it was unfortunate politics was being played over music. “You spread hate, we encourage brotherhood. You bow thorns, we grow flowers,” the minister tweeted.
Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis too had extended an invitation to the ghazal maestro, saying his government will ensure foolproof security if he still wishes to perform in the city.
Last time the event did not happen because the organisers backed out. But if Ghulam Ali ji wants to perform again in Mumbai or Maharashtra, we will ensure foolproof security for him,” Fadnavis said at a media event in Mumbai last week.
According to reports, the concert has been called off as the singer cited personal reasons. His son Amir said that the singer was wary of fringe elements and was waiting for conditions in India to calm down.
