Another songster for flood relief

After a long break pop singer Shazia Manzoor is back with live performances for her audience.

BHURBAN: Having released her latest album Tu Badal Gaya this year, Shazia Manzoor is actively participating in flood relief activities through her live performances across the country. “I have been doing fundraising concerts for the flood victims with Hashoo Foundation, with the intention to create public awareness,” Manzoor told The Express Tribune.

“I don’t want extra promotion from these fundraising projects. All the proceeds from the events are going directly to the individuals affected by floods across the country. The farmers, who used to provide us with food and crop, are without shelter today. This is the time for Pakistanis to rise as a nation, and no matter how divided we may be; when a calamity like this strikes we should turn into a unified force. We need to make proper villages for them, they require modern villages,” the singer added.

Sharing her experience with Hashoo Foundation, she said, “It is one of the few trustworthy names as far as philanthropy is concerned in Pakistan. It is not only about music shows, but is like an entire campaign. Hence, the idea behind Shazia Live in Concert.”

Manzoor who rose to fame with songs like “Ghar Aja Soniya” and “Batiyan Bhujai Rakhdi” spoke about her hit tracks, “Some songs become exclusives and it makes you feel proud about the fact that you reach a point where you get associated with them to an extent that they are your hallmark to fame and glory. While these songs make me proud, ‘Ghar Aja Soniya’ is one such song, that I must say that whenever I get a chance to sing live, it feels like I am performing it for the first time. My association with this song is unique.”

As far as being away from the limelight is concerned, the singer said, “I take singing as a hobby. If I take it as a profession, I won’t be able to enjoy it.” In the same note she said, “But, when I stand in front of the audience with the microphone in my hand, I am a professional person to the core.”

Manzoor’s latest album Tu Badal Gaya, was released in March this year. The sale proceeds of the album are going to Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital.

Finally, the singer sheds light about her philanthropic activities, “I am so glad that my voice is being used for a good purpose.”

Published in The Express Tribune, October 24^th, 2010.