Veteran Pakistani actor Firdous Jamal has stirred debate following his recent comments about music and its relation to Islamic practices, drawing attention during an interview on the YouTube podcast Rehan Tariq Official.
Speaking candidly, the seasoned actor argued that music is deeply spiritual and even divine in nature. “Music is the language of the skies,” he said. “It will be played in Jannah [Paradise] to soothe us.” Jamal questioned the societal double standards surrounding music, pointing out that while people enjoy listening to it, they look down upon those who pursue singing as a profession.
He criticized the judgmental attitude prevalent in society, stating, “If someone becomes a singer, we degrade them. We call them undignified. This is hypocrisy, but we have to live with it because it’s part of our social structure.”
Expanding on the subject, Jamal drew parallels between music and religious practices like Naat recitation, Qirat, and Azan. He noted that these too follow melodic patterns, often rooted in classical Raags like Bhairavi. “Even Moazzins and Naat Khuwans use Sur in their recitations. If someone were to recite without melody, people wouldn’t enjoy it the same way,” he said.
Acknowledging the backlash such remarks might provoke, Jamal added, “People will now say I’ve lost my mind for linking Azan and Naat with music. But that’s how it is.”
Jamal’s statements have sparked a wave of mixed reactions online, with many praising his boldness while others express outrage over what they perceive as irreverence. The full interview is available on Rehan Tariq Official’s YouTube channel.
