KARACHI: Renowned singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has said that he is very much optimistic about the future of Pakistani music and Qawwali.

Talking to reporters at the Karachi Press Club a day after the Oxford University announced conferring an honorary degree on him, he said: “I have some 1,200 students who are learning Qawwali.”

The vocalist thanked the Oxford University and dedicated the honour to his family. He said it was actually the recognition of Pakistani music and culture.

“I have performed in every part of the world and sung for film industries of different countries. But everyone knows that Pakistan is my first priority. Whatever I am today is because of this country and its people. Wherever in the world, I am invited to perform it’s in fact the recognition of Pakistani music and its culture,” he said.

Rahat will be awarded the honorary degree at a function to be held in June this year.

The honorary degree will be awarded to seven other personalities for their invaluable services in different fields.

Published in Dawn, March 29th, 2019