Rahat Fateh Ali Khan lost his role as an ambassador for King Charles’ British Asian Trust when a video of him abusing his student went viral. The issue has garnered significant criticism online. And it triggered an immediate reaction from the trust.
In the viral footage, Khan is seen repeatedly hitting a man with his shoe out of anger. After seeing the video, many expressed their disgust with the singer’s actions on social media. (Read More: Chinmayi Sripaada Slams Rahat Fateh Ali Khan For ‘Beating’ His Disciple)
Charles’s Trust condemns Khan’s actions
An official for the Trust told Geo News, “We strongly condemn any form of violence, whatever the circumstances,” Dawn reported. The representative went on to add that the trust had “ceased any association with Mr Khan” because of their stringent policy against abusive conduct.
Notably, Prince Charles personally confirmed Khan’s appointment as an ambassador for the British Asian Trust in 2017. The artist posted an explanation video on social media. It showed Khan with the person who was involved in the brawl. The assaulted person identified himself as Khan’s student.
“Called it necessary”
Khan refuted claims in the video that the bottle in question contained alcohol. He stated that the fight was the result of a “personal issue.”. He called it “holy water” that had been consecrated by a clergyman. “This is how the relationship is between a teacher and student,” Khan said, defending his actions by claiming they were necessary as a kind of punishment for the student’s alleged misconduct.
Khan’s account was supported by the student, who described the video release as an effort to discredit his teacher. His father also spoke up, supporting the conventional teacher-student relationship that is common in the Qawwali industry.