INDIA TODAY (October 7, 2015)

Renowned Pakistani singer Ghulam Ali's concert in Mumbai was cancelled on Wednesday after Shiv Sena's film wing put out a threat saying there will be a "Sena style protest" if the singer came to perform in Mumbai. The organisers of the event had a meeting with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, and not with the chief minister of Maharashtra who had said that the state will provide security for the concert. India Today's Managing Editor Rahul Kanwal spoke exclusively to Ghulam Ali. Here's the English translation of the interview with the singer.

It is matter of regret that your concert in Mumbai has been cancelled. What's your reaction?
No worries. The programme needed a conducive environment. I am sure it's the will of Allah that it will not happen. It is a matter of love and leisure, and God forbid some incident may happen. The programme can only be enjoyed in a peaceful environment.

Do you think that music should be placed above diplomacy, politics and hatred?
Music is work of love. I go to India because people love music. And this is not just the case of Pakistan or India, but I have been performing all over the world. People call me with love.

You have performed in India so many times in the past. People love your music here.
Yes, that's the case even now. There are so many people in India who will be saddened with this decision.

Were you looking forward to this concert?
Certainly.

The concert was in the tribute of your friend and ghazal singer Jagjit Singh?
Yes, in his remembrance, on the occasion of his death anniversary. I was supposed to give my tribute to him. It was a matter of honour for me, because he was my brother, and we had tremendous love and respect for each other.

Any message from you to your well wishers, and also the people who spread hatred
My only request to them is to choose peace over hatred. Tension has no role to play in this work of peace. I am always at the service of my listeners wherever they are.

And to the people who spread hatred?
They have their own opinion, but that cannot suppress the love of my listeners. All I can say that I am hungry for love.