Writer Sadiq Saleem offers his hot take on Atif Aslam's viral reels

Entertainment writer Sadiq Saleem recently shared his thoughts on acclaimed singer Atif Aslam’s new venture into creating viral Instagram reels. Saleem emphasised that a star of Atif’s caliber should avoid attention-seeking tactics, warning that it could dilute his status from a legendary singer to just another content creator.

Atif Aslam, the Aadat singer known for his timeless music that has touched the hearts of millions, recently joined the trend of posting humorous reels on Instagram, aiming to connect with the Gen Z demographic.

However, Saleem believes that these actions are not in line with the star power and respect Atif has earned throughout his career.

Saleem expressed his opinion in an Instagram post, writing, “Atif, we get it, Gen Z is the hot demographic, but if you really want to win them over, show them your world. Give us your riyaaz sessions, your backstage chaos, your soundchecks, the moment you lose your voice and panic before a concert, the stuff that makes an artist. Right now, it’s not giving Atif Aslam, it’s giving Atif Bhai trying to be a content creator.”

The writer also pointed out that Atif shared multiple reels after attending the launch of the Velo Sound Station music program, which he felt didn’t align with the stature of an artist like Atif.

Saleem then drew comparisons with global music icons, advising Atif to reconsider his approach to maintain his stardom.

“Arijit isn’t selling diet tea. Jungkook isn’t lip-syncing in his bathroom, and Ed Sheeran isn’t doing moody sunglasses reels. They create, they inspire, they collaborate,” he said.

He further added, “Atif, you’re over 40, a loving father of three, with over two decades of music behind you, multiple state honors to your name, and the most bankable voice in the region. You don’t need to chase the trend; you are the trend, or at least you used to be.”

Saleem concluded by saying that Atif is "sabotaging" his legacy by overexposing himself through trivial viral content. He advised the singer to reassess his strategy and return to focusing on his masterful vocals to win back the public’s admiration.