Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, renowned for his soulful Qawwali renditions, became the center of a storm after a video surfaced showing him physically assaulting a man with his slippers. The incident sparked outrage and ignited a heated debate about power, tradition, and the lines that blur between discipline and abuse.
The Storm Unleashed – A Closer Look at the Controversy
The viral video, shared by journalist Ghulam Abbas Shah, depicted Khan, clad in a dark kurta, repeatedly striking the man while questioning him about a missing bottle. Initially, reports claimed the victim was Khan’s servant, fueling assumptions of workplace abuse. However, the narrative soon shifted when another video emerged. In this video, Khan clarified that the man was his student and the incident stemmed from a disciplinary action for a “mistake.”
Khan’s explanation, however, did little to quell the controversy. Singer Chinmayi Sripaada emerged as a vocal critic, calling out Khan’s actions as “horrendous” and highlighting the hypocrisy of artists who project a gentle image in public while resorting to violence behind the scenes. Sripaada further challenged Khan’s justification of the incident as a teacher’s disciplinary action, arguing that “Gurus get protected by the ‘divinity’ of their position,” leading to the normalization of abuse under the guise of tradition and artistic talent.
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and the Power Struggle Within Tradition
The victim, identified as Naveed Hasnain, initially supported Khan, claiming the incident was a “personal matter” and that those spreading the video were trying to “blackmail” his teacher. He even went on to defend the use of physical discipline, stating that a “father figure” has the right to punish his “son.” Adding fuel to the fire was Hasnain’s father, who further endorsed the traditional master-disciple relationship and defended Khan’s actions.
However, the narrative didn’t remain one-sided for long. Critics argued that such justifications perpetuate a power dynamic where abuse is normalized, particularly in the realm of music and traditional arts, where students often rely heavily on their teachers for guidance and career advancement. They pointed out the inherent imbalance in power and the potential for exploitation when physical discipline becomes an accepted form of correction.
Power Dynamics in Music
The incident also raised questions about the blurring of lines between cultural tradition and personal accountability. While the “ustad-shagird” relationship holds significant cultural importance in South Asian music, critics argued that it shouldn’t be used as a shield for unacceptable behavior. They emphasized that respect and discipline can be instilled without resorting to violence or physical abuse.
The controversy surrounding Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s actions is far from a simple case of a teacher disciplining his student. It delves into complex questions about power, cultural norms, and the responsibility that comes with artistic influence. While the victim and his family may have chosen to defend Khan and downplay the incident, the video and the subsequent outcry serve as a powerful reminder that physical abuse, regardless of context or justification, is never acceptable.
Cultural Norms Under Scrutiny
The incident also highlights the importance of open dialogue and critical examination of cultural practices, particularly when they involve vulnerable individuals like students or apprentices. It is crucial to ensure that respect and discipline are fostered within a safe and empowering environment, where artistic growth is not overshadowed by the fear of violence or abuse.
Also Read : Jiya Shankar Sets Hearts Aflutter with Stunning Photo-Shoot: ‘Thank You, Next’ Attitude Takes Fans by Storm
The Rahat Fateh Ali Khan saga is a stark reminder that even the most celebrated artists are not above scrutiny. It is a call for accountability, for challenging harmful traditions, and for ensuring that power dynamics within artistic communities do not lead to the exploitation and abuse of those seeking guidance and mentorship. Only through open dialogue, critical reflection, and a commitment to fostering safe and respectful artistic environments can we ensure that the arts remain a source of inspiration and beauty, rather than a breeding ground for abuse.
1 thought on “Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s Beating of Disciple Sparks Controversy: A Tale of Power, Tradition, and Resistance”