PESHAWAR: Dr Said Alam Mahsood, chief of Pakhtunkhwa Ulasi Tehreek, has said artistes and literati should be honoured and their services be recognised at every level.

He said artistes and writers suffered great loss owing to unfavourable environment in the region, adding singers like ailing Khial Mohammad should be recognised and be given respect for their tremendous contributions to Pashto music.

He was speaking at a musical concert held at the Peshawar Press Club to honour popular ghazal singer Khial Mohammad.

On the occasion, Khial Mohammad said he had contributed to Pashto music and had always received respect from Pashtun fans. He said his fans never disappointed him and would continue to contribute to music. “I expect young singers to promote Pashto music in its true spirit,” the ghazal maestro said.

Noted film actor Ajab Gul said Khial Mohammad’s services spread over five decades who devoted his entire life to Pashto music. Senior lawyer Latif Afridi remarked that Khial Mohammad had ruled over hearts of millions of Pakhtuns because of his velvety voice and unique ghazal singing style. He said artistes and writers did not need anything but respect, recognition and encouragement.

It is to mention here that Khial Mohammad has been bedridden for last three years due to paralysis. Abaseen Yousafzai said Khial Mohammad was recipient of numerous awards, including coveted President’s Pride of Performance, and life achievement awards from different literary and cultural organisations. Wisal Khial and Anwar Khial, sons of Khial Mohammad, sang popular numbers of their legendary father and received applause from the participants.

Published in Dawn, May 9th, 2016