Name: Pathanay Khan
Date of Birth: 1926
Nationality: Pakistani
Birth Place: Basti Tambu Wali, Kot Addu, Punjab, British India
Date of death: 9 March 2000 (aged 74)
Religion: Islam
Known for: Folk music
Awards: Pride of Performance Award in 1979 by the President of Pakistan
Who is Pathanay Khan?
- Birth and Early Life: Pathanay Khan, the iconic Saraiki folk singer, was born in 1926 in Basti Tambu Wali, located in the Thal Desert near Kot Addu, Punjab, Pakistan.
- Musical Journey: Khan’s musical journey began with Kafis and Ghazals, predominantly drawing inspiration from the Sufi poetry of Khwaja Ghulam Farid and Shah Hussain. He received his initial training from Baba Mir Khan, his first teacher, immersing himself in the rich musical traditions of the region.
- Education and Work: Khan’s passion for music led him away from formal education after completing the seventh standard. He supported his family by collecting firewood, supplementing their income earned through his mother’s occupation as a village baker.
- Artistic Contribution: Pathanay Khan’s renditions of Kafis and Ghazals not only showcased his musical prowess but also brought a deeper cosmic meaning to the lyrics, resonating with audiences on a profound level.
- Recognition and Achievements: In 1976, his talent was acknowledged nationally when Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, then Prime Minister of Pakistan, invited him to Islamabad for a private performance, underscoring his status as a maestro of folk music.
- Legacy: Pathanay Khan’s unique style revolutionized Pakistani folk music, breathing new life into traditional Kafis and Sufiana Kalam. His contributions to the cultural heritage of Pakistan endure, celebrated by folk music enthusiasts and scholars alike.
- Enduring Influence: Even after his passing in 2016, Pathanay Khan’s legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans, reaffirming his position as one of Pakistan’s most revered musical icons.
( Updated: 1 Feb 2024 )