Firdous Jamal Reflects on Loss, Hypocrisy, and the Societal Stigma Around Music
Veteran actor Firdous Jamal opened up about the tragic passing of fellow artists Ayesha Khan and Humaira Asghar, using the moment to highlight the contradictions and rigidity deeply rooted in South Asian society—particularly in its attitude toward the performing arts.
Speaking candidly during a recent podcast appearance, the iconic actor stated:
“If a person does not offer any utility, he or she is a nobody.”
Reflecting on the losses, he criticized society’s judgmental stance on singers and artists, stating:
“We’re a rigid society. We use offensive, derogatory language for singers, yet listen to music passionately.”
He emphasized the double standards that prevail:
“When someone from our own home becomes a singer, we suddenly look down upon them. We question their dignity. That’s hypocrisy—but it’s the reality we live in.”
Jamal also stirred thought by drawing a parallel between music and religious recitations, pointing out that Naats and Azans are recited in melodic tones, often based on musical structures like Raag Bhairavi.
“Even Naat Khuwans and Moazzins use sur—musical notes—in their recitations. Anything with melody is based on Raag. People wouldn’t enjoy a flat Azan; they are attracted to the beauty of its melody.”
Anticipating backlash, he added:
“People will say I’ve lost my mind, equating Naat and Azan with music. But this is a taboo we need to acknowledge.”
Firdous Jamal’s reflections come at a time of collective mourning in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, and his words serve as a provocative yet necessary critique of societal hypocrisy surrounding the arts, spirituality, and acceptance.
