PHOTO: FILE

Renowned Pakistani singer Yaqoob Atif is currently experiencing hard times. The 70-year old is suffering due to lack of work as well as various illnesses, residing in a small rented house in Mughal Pura, Lahore, with his family.Atif, who has performed worldwide, has denied any kind of government aid. To him, accepting Rs5,000 each month via a ‘Khidmat Card’ is an insult.The Pani Ka Bulbula singer was a famous artist around four decades ago although many still listen to his songs. It is distressing to see such celebrated artists suffer after their contributions to the society.Nowadays, the artist has been trying to get in touch with different studios and production houses for work but according to him, it seems like all the doors have closed.Talking with The Express Tribune, Atif and his family spoke about the tragedies they have faced and are still facing. “I miss the times I could focus on my singing, the days I’d sing Chaar Dina Di Zindagi.. I enjoyed a lot of fame after this song.”He continued, “After singing this song on Radio Pakistan, I had good days as a lot of work came my way. It brought me two years’ worth of work. I released more songs after that and was truly appreciated by the public. There was increasing demand for me at private events and I even went around the globe for work. Naturally, I earned a lot of money but like other artists, I didn’t save much. I never thought I would see such bad days in my life.”He went on to talk about his experience with finding work. “People have cheated me; they enjoy giving me false assurance for some reason. Now, at this age, I have come to realise what life is really about.”Speaking about welfare from the government, Atif shared the government has offered to help with a monthly sum of Rs5,000 but he won’t accept it. “Artists like me did a lot in our lives and earned fame for our country but here I am feeling so helpless. Just think about how painful it is for me to chase people, running between studios in search of work when I should be resting, at this age,” said Atif.Explaining his familial situation a bit more, the singer added, “My father was in a critical condition and bed-ridden a few months ago – he is the main breadwinner for our family. He is a very principled man and even though he worked his whole life for our country, he has never asked for any assistance in his old age.”Atif further shared, “However, he is too old to work now and I think the government should take the necessary steps to improve our life, as we are residing in a rented house.” the singer’s daughter also agreed with her father’s request. “I think all artists that were assets of TV and radio should be supported.”Have something to add to the story? Share it in the comments below.