Watch: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan thrashes student with shoe, issues clarification later

After the video went viral, the singer issued a clarification. (Image: @B5001001101/X)

Renowned Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan came under the limelight after a video of him assaulting a man went viral on social media. The clip has spread like wildfire on the internet and has shocked social media users.

In the clip that has now been widely shared across social media, Khan was seen mercilessly beating the man. He claimed that he was his disciple and was seen repeatedly hitting and slapping him, while enquiring about a “bottle”. A few moments later, other people were captured trying to save the student from Khan.

According to Samaa TV, a Pakistani broadcaster, the man was identified as his employee.

Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali khan was caught abusing his servant. Later, he gave an explanation. pic.twitter.com/PC0DawSEsq

January 27, 2024

As the video gained traction online and created a stir on the internet, the singer issued a clarification that also featured the man who he was assaulting earlier. The man’s father was also in the frame.

“The video that you are watching is a personal matter between an ustad and his shagird. He is my student, my kid. And this his father. If a student does good work, I shower my love on him. And when he makes a mistake, he is also punished,” he said.

“The bottle contained ‘holy water’ and I forgot where I kept it. He is my teacher, my father. Whoever has shared this video wants to insult my teacher,” the man said. Khan also claimed that he apologised to the man later.

The man's father also supported Khan and explained the relationship between an ustad and shagird in the field of Qawalli.

However, the footage sparked a lot of negative reactions from social media users who slammed the singer for his actions.

"Unfortunately he'll not punished. His money will take care of everything. Such a shameful act," a user wrote. Another user commented, "90% of the privileged in the sub-continent behave like that. Irrespective of region, religion, caste, language and profession."

"The second video looks scripted. Rahat Ali has lost respect now," a third user remarked. A fourth user added, "Very sad to see the the real person behind a beautiful voice. No matter what you do after the incident but the reality is caught on camera."