MUMBAI: Pakistani Ghazal singer Ghulam Ali's scheduled musical performance on the eve of 29 January has hit another roadblock. The IANS reports claim the concert promoting the music launch of director Suhaib Ilyasi's movie 'Ghar Wapsi' was called off amidst security reasons. The event was supposed to be held in Andheri's 'The Club' on Friday, however, the reasons are still not clear.
One of the leading publications reported the singer was not sent an invitation, and thus, the confusion created led to the cancellation of the event.
The movie titled 'Ghar Wapsi' revolvs around patriotism and Ghulam Ali makes his feature film debut with the movie.
Speaking to reporters, Suhaib Ilyasi expressed his displeasure, “The event was going to happen this Friday at ‘The Club’ in Andheri but now it is not happening. It has been cancelled. No reason was given (by 'The Club'). It is unfortunate that this incident is happening. Even Ghulam Ali sahab is aware of this and he is feeling sad about this." Ilyasi further adds the 75-year-old ghazal singer has now cancelled his event in Mumbai.
Speaking to another news outlet, TV-show turned filmmaker Suhaib Ilyasi revealed the ruling government of Maharashtra- BJP- had assured protection for the artist's safety.
Adding another angle to the development is the statement from the 'The Club' who claim "no such bookings were made."
In October, last year, Ghulam Ali faced major protests from the political outfit- Shiv Sena. Ali was to perform in Mumbai and Pune, but the continued protest and security concerns resulted to the cancellation.
version 1: Ilyasi claims pressure from political outfits resulted into cancellation
version 2: 'The club' stated no bookings for the event were made.
Ghulam Ali performed in Delhi and Kolkata, after his performances in Mumbai and Pune were cancelled. The veteran ghazal singer was also awarded with 'Swaralaya Global Legend Award' in Trivandrum, earlier this month.