World-renowned Pakistani singer Atif Aslam has responded to criticism over his decision to perform at a concert the day after his father’s passing, saying that people should “love me for my art” instead of questioning his personal choices.

Atif Aslam’s father passed away in Lahore last month. The very next day, the singer fulfilled his professional commitment by performing at the Independence Day concert at Karachi’s National Stadium.

While many fans praised him for honoring his work despite immense grief, others questioned his decision and called it insensitive.

Atif Aslam’s response to backlash

Speaking to Canadian-based Indian journalist Faridun Shahryar during his ongoing concert tour in Canada, Atif Aslam dismissed the criticism.

“After my father’s death, everyone was talking about how I performed the next day. What happens in my house becomes their channel’s content,” he said.

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He added: “It is not my job to tell others what to do or not. I cannot relate to the whole world. My job is art — love me for my art, and hate me for my music, but don’t tell me what to do.”

The singer, known for timeless hits like Tera Hone Laga Hoon, Jeene Laga Hoon, and Woh Lamhe, has often spoken about balancing his personal life with the demands of an international career. His recent comments highlight the struggles artists face when private grief collides with public expectations.