PESHAWAR: The members of Hunari Tolana, an organisation of artists, met the provincial secretary of culture, tourism and archaeology and museums, Dr Abdul Samad, and discussed with him various issues regarding revival of cultural activities in the province.

The delegation of Hunari Tolana, headed by octogenarian folk artist Ahmad Gul Ustad, took up problems being faced by artists with Dr Abdul Samad, who assured them of due support for initiatives that would help to boost artistic and cultural activities in the province .

They sought a secure and free space for performances to folk artists and performers. Also, the group highlighted lack of performance opportunities in the province.

Talking to this scribe, Dr Rashid Ahmad Khan, central chairman of Hunari Tolana, said that major issues being faced by folk artists and performers were brought into the notice of provincial secretary of culture, tourism, archaeology and museums department, who pledged to support them.

“Artists stressed the need for music street in the city, handing over of Nishtar Hall to artists, trips to northern areas and launching different projects under a work plan for reviving cultural activities. Dr Samad also agreed to our proposal to provide performance opportunities, not charity,” he said.

Ahmad Gul Ustad said that folk artists and performers needed due support for creating a secure space where they could display their artistic skills and could promote a positive image of the province.

“We, the artists, were impressed by the innovative ideas and constructive vision of Dr Abdul Samad regarding revival of art and culture in KP. He promised full support to our community,” the octogenarian vocalist maintained.

Master Liaqat Ali, central joint secretary of Hunari Tolana, said that artists and performers suffered a lot during the last several decades due to law and order situation in the province and most artists were forced to begging.

He said that many others quit the profession. He said that security and free space should be provided to artists for reviving cultural activities. Folk artists sincerely wanted to serve arts and culture to promote lasting peace in the region, he added.

Folk artists including Master Sahar Gul, Rahim Khan, Saida Gul and Ustad Sanam Gul were also part of the delegation.

Published in Dawn, Aug 1st, 2025