Adnan Sami reveals pain of watching mother’s funeral on WhatsApp after visa denial

Singer Adnan Sami recently spoke out about a deeply personal moment, sharing how he was unable to attend his mother’s funeral in Pakistan. Despite receiving clearance from the Indian authorities, the Pakistani government denied him a visa, forcing him to witness the last rites via a video on WhatsApp.

In a conversation with India TV, the singer recalled the emotional turmoil he experienced when his mother, Naureen Sami Khan, passed away unexpectedly. According to him, she had not been suffering from any health issues, which made the news even more shocking. “It was a complete surprise. She was doing fine. No one saw it coming,” he shared.

Following her death, Adnan approached both the Indian and Pakistani governments, seeking permission to travel for her funeral. The Indian side reportedly responded with understanding. “I asked the Indian authorities if they had any objection to my travelling. They said, ‘It’s obvious, your mother has passed away, you must go’. There was no issue from them,” Adnan said.

However, when he applied for a visa from the Pakistani side, his request was turned down. “I applied for a visa, but they refused. I told them, ‘My mother has passed away’. Still, they said no. I couldn’t go. I saw her entire janaza through a WhatsApp video,” he said, clearly emotional while recalling the moment.

Adnan Sami, who became an Indian citizen in 2016, was previously a Pakistani national. He first arrived in India in 2001 on a one-year visitor visa. Over time, the Indian government extended his stay as his Pakistani passport expired in 2015 and was not renewed. He then formally applied for Indian citizenship, which was granted.

Sami, best known for his songs Tera Chehra, Kabhi To Nazar Milao, and Bhar Do Jholi, rarely speaks about personal matters publicly. His account, though, sheds light on the complex realities faced by individuals navigating strained diplomatic ties, especially in moments of personal grief.