Attaullah Esakhelvi: My Father Secretly Loved My Songs

At a press conference in London on Tuesday, he revealed that his family, especially his extended relatives, opposed his career. “My entire family resisted my singing, particularly relatives who now take pride in my achievements and claim I am their cousin,” he said.

The Kameez Kali singer recalled how his father punished him for singing. “My father used to discipline me, but my mother later confided that he secretly listened to my songs.”

Attaullah announced plans to release a new Pashto song soon and shared a heartwarming tradition he follows. “Whenever I see my picture on the back of a truck, I stop and embrace the driver,” he said, referencing the use of his portraits in Pakistani truck art.

Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi Praises Social Media

He also praised social media for giving emerging singers a platform to reach a global audience, something unavailable during the early days of his career.

In a recent appearance on Hafiz Ahmed’s podcast, Attaullah discussed his personal life, including his five marriages. “My first four wives left because they couldn’t adjust to my lifestyle, which led me to marry a fifth time,” he explained.

Reflecting on his early struggles, he said, “I drove a taxi before becoming a singer. My father disapproved of my career, so I worked various jobs to support myself. Even after I became a singer, he never openly appreciated my work, but my mother told me he would secretly listen to my songs.”

Speaking about PTI founder Imran Khan, the Idher Zindagi Ka Janaza Uth Aay Ga singer mentioned their close ties. “We share family roots and come from the same area. I accompanied him to raise funds for Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital,” he said.

Attaullah continues to captivate audiences with iconic songs like Dhar Zindagi Ka Janaza Uthay Ga, Bedardi Se Pyar, and Te Sohnay Phullan Wali.

Also Read: Bohemia Meets Attaullah Esakhelvi in London, Shares Respectful Moment