PESHAWAR: Young folk singers, musicians, performers and fans gathered here to pay glowing tributes and coronate veteran artists in recognition of their illustrious contribution to Pashto folk music.

Delegates of folk artists from parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and tribal districts attended the coronation ceremony of the two senior folk singers, Qamro Jan Bibi and Ahmad Gul Ustad, both in their late 70s.

A large number of music-buffs, civil society members, families and youth also turned up at the event. Several pairs of folk singers performed and received a thunderous applause from the audience. Diehard fans showered petals of flowers on the aged artists and accorded them warm welcome to the venue of the event.

Prof Abaseen Yousafzai, who was chief guest on the occasion, said that folk artists were precious assets because they had always treasured the essence of music. “Ahmad Gul Ustad and Qamro Jan Bibi are symbols of our past glory of folk music traditions. They deserve much appreciation and respect as they have devoted their entire lives to the cause of music culture,” he added.

The event was arranged by Hunari Tolana Welfare Society (HTWS) in Nishtar Hall to recognise the services of the senior artists, who had launched their careers from Radio Pakistan, Peshawar.

Speakers stated that both the artists enriched Pashto folk music and also influenced young singers through their unique style of expression.

Rashid Ahmad Khan, chief of Hunari Tolana Welfare Society, said on the occasion that Qamro Jan and Ahmad Gul though were recipients of President’s Award of Pride of Performance as their contributions spanned over five decades.

He said that the coronation ceremony was long due as artists wanted to honour them in their lifetime in a befitting manner.

The veteran artists were crowned amid standing ovation of jam-packed Nishtar Hall.

The coronation ceremony was performed by noted artists. Certificates of commendation were also awarded to them.

Qamro Jan and Ahmad Gul Ustad said on the occasion that the real award for artists always remained public appreciation. “Today, we feel proud that artists together with huge audience still adore our contributions. We hope that culture department will take care of the ailing artists and their families,” they added.

A number of Peshawar-based Afghan artist also participated in the event. More than 12 folk singers sang popular folk numbers.

They included Fazal Wahab Dard, Hashmat Sahar, Zar Wali Afghan, Wagma Bibi and Bahadar Zeb, son of Ahmad Gul Ustad.

Published in Dawn, July 13th, 2023