The circulation of a viral video on social media depicting acclaimed singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan engaging in harsh treatment towards his personal employee has triggered public outrage.
In the video, the singer, renowned for his enchanting voice, is observed subjecting his domestic staff member to a series of kicks and punches while inquiring about the whereabouts of his ‘bottle.’
میری بوتل کہاں ہے ؟راحت فتح علی خان نے ملازم کو تشدد کانشانہ ڈالا۔ملازم پر جوتوں اور گھونسوں کی بارش کردی،ویڈیو میں راحت کے علاوہ دیگر ملازم بھی نظر آ رہے ہیں لیکن کوئی بھی راحت فتح علی کو نہیں روک پاتا جبکہ ملازم جان بخشی کی دہائی دیتا رہا pic.twitter.com/whjbfaHdE4
— Latif Shah (@Latifshahji) January 27, 2024
The employee implores for leniency while onlookers fail to intervene, underscoring an unsettling pattern of behavior allegedly exacerbated by Rahat’s suspected substance abuse.
In response to the controversy, the singer sought to minimize the incident, portraying it as a disciplinary matter between a ‘mentor and his protégé.’
In a video statement, he introduced the employee, Naveed Hasnain, and his father, Nafees Ahmed, depicting their relationship as one built on mutual respect and fondness.
بوتل میں پیر صاحب کا دم کیا ہوا پانی تھا pic.twitter.com/tTwQqkUS5n
— Tariq Mateen (@tariqmateen) January 27, 2024
Naveed, in return, defended his mentor, characterizing the incident as a misunderstanding and lauding Rahat’s ‘paternal affection.’ He clarified that the mentioned bottle contained nothing illicit but was water blessed by a spiritual guide. He added that the release of the video was an attempt at blackmail to discredit Rahat.
Despite efforts to downplay the situation, concerns persist regarding the appropriateness of such violence.
Rahat countered allegations of mistreatment by presenting his long-serving driver, Salim, as evidence of his benevolent nature. Salim affirmed the singer’s kindness and respect, underscoring a history free of abuse or mistreatment.
(Islamabad51_Newsdesk)
