Renowned singer and composer Adnan Sami has opened up about his emotional journey from Pakistan to India, shedding light on the challenges he faced in his early career and the overwhelming acceptance he received in India.
In a candid interview with India TV, the Pakistan-born artist, who became an Indian citizen in 2016, shared how lack of support from the Pakistani music industry led him to seek a new beginning in Mumbai.
Sami revealed that after his 1998 album received no marketing or promotion in Pakistan, the industry wrote him off.
“People thought I was finished,” he said, explaining how the album disappeared without notice. Disheartened, he was in Canada when he realized the neglect was intentional.
A turning point came through a conversation with legendary Indian singer Asha Bhosle, who encouraged him to come to Mumbai.
“She said, ‘This is the capital of Hindi music. If it works here, it spreads across the world,’” Sami recalled.
He soon arrived in Mumbai ‘with his bags packed’ and stayed at the home of the iconic RD Burman, thanks to Bhosle’s support.
In a twist of fate, the songs that failed in Pakistan — including Kabhi To Nazar Milao, Bheegi Bheegi Raaton Mein, and Lift Karadey — became major hits in India. “The love and embrace I received in India — I never could’ve imagined it,” said Sami.
Reflecting on the broader music culture, Sami praised the Indian audience for its deep respect for musicians.
He also expressed sorrow over the neglect faced by legends like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Mehdi Hassan, and Reshma in Pakistan despite their massive talent. “The audience has always loved them, but the authorities never offered support,” he said.
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