Atif Aslam on India Ban: Singer Says Fans Still Listen Through VPNs, 'I Thank Those Who Banned Me'

Pakistani singer Atif Aslam has spoken about the restrictions on Pakistani artistes working in India, saying the ban not only changed the course of his career but also pushed him towards becoming an independent musician.

Speaking during an interview on YouTube, the singer said it has been nearly a decade since he last recorded music for the Indian film industry. Despite the restrictions, he believes his music continues to reach Indian audiences through alternative platforms, including VPN services.

'Music always finds its audience'

During the conversation, Atif Aslam said his connection with Indian fans has remained strong even after he stopped working in Bollywood.

According to the singer, many fans continue to access his music despite regional restrictions.

"For the past 10 years, I haven't done a song there. My fans are listening over VPN... Music will always reach wherever it has to reach," Atif said.

While mentioning piracy, the singer clarified that he does not support illegal distribution of music but believes genuine listeners always find a way to hear the songs they love.

Atif thanks those who imposed the ban

In one of the interview's most talked-about moments, Atif Aslam said the ban unexpectedly helped him grow creatively.

He explained that the absence of Bollywood playback opportunities encouraged him to focus on creating original independent music instead of relying solely on film songs.

"I thank those who banned me because otherwise I wouldn't have explored myself as an artist," he said.

The singer added that playback singing had taught him valuable lessons, but the restrictions forced him to discover a new artistic identity.

Why were Pakistani artistes banned in India?

The restrictions on Pakistani actors, singers and technicians strengthened after the 2016 Uri terror attack, when several film organisations opposed collaborations with Pakistani talent.

The unofficial industry-wide boycott continued after the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, with major entertainment bodies reiterating their stand against employing Pakistani artistes in Indian films.

Following the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, cross-border entertainment collaborations were further affected. Several projects involving Pakistani actors were halted, while access to some Pakistani celebrities' social media accounts was restricted for users in India.

Atif Aslam says he misses Indian fans

Although he said he does not particularly miss working in India, Atif admitted he misses his Indian audience.

The singer thanked fans for continuing to support his music over the years and said their love has remained unchanged despite political tensions.

He encouraged listeners not to feel disappointed, saying true fans always know where to find his music.

Atif Aslam's Bollywood legacy

Before the restrictions, Atif Aslam became one of Bollywood's most successful playback singers.

Some of his most popular Hindi songs include:

• Aadat
• Woh Lamhe
• Tere Bin
• Pehli Nazar Mein
• Tu Jaane Na
• Dil Diyan Gallan

His songs remain among the most-streamed Bollywood tracks even years after their release.

FAQs

Why was Atif Aslam banned from working in India?

Pakistani artistes stopped working in India after industry bodies opposed collaborations following the 2016 Uri terror attack. Restrictions continued after later cross-border tensions.

What did Atif Aslam say about Indian fans?

He said Indian fans continue listening to his music through VPNs and other platforms despite restrictions.

Did Atif Aslam support piracy?

No. He specifically said he does not appreciate piracy but believes music naturally reaches listeners.

Has Atif Aslam sung in Bollywood recently?

No. The singer said he has not recorded songs for the Indian film industry for nearly ten years.