Pathanay Khan, a legendary folk musician, is commemorated on his 25th death anniversary.

Pathanay Khan, a renowned Saraiki folk musician and Presidential Award laureate, is commemorated today on the 25th anniversary of his death.

With a career spanning decades, he has received 80 national and regional prizes for his captivating renderings of Sufi poetry.

A life committed to music and spirituality.

Ghulam Muhammad was born in 1926 in Kot Addu, Punjab. Pathanay Khan spent his life singing Kafis and Ghazals, influenced by the poetry of Bulleh Shah, Khwaja Ghulam Farid, Pir Meher Ali Shah, and Shah Hussain. His powerful, soul-stirring voice expressed his dedication to Sufi mysticism.

A journey of challenges and spiritual commitment.

He endured challenges from a young age, since his father remarried, leaving his mother to raise him alone. A Syed family proposed altering his name to Pathanay Khan, believing it would spiritually improve him. His early tutor, Baba Mir Khan, encouraged him in music, and despite financial difficulties, he continued his vocation with steadfast dedication.

A voice that inspired generations.

In 1976, Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto summoned him to a private concert. Pathanay Khan’s version of “Jindarri lutti tain yaar sajan, Kadi mor maharan tay wal a watan” had Bhutto in tears. When asked whether he had any desires, Pathanay Khan simply answered, “Bhutto Sahib, aap ko gharib awaam ki parat ho”.(Take care of the poor, Bhutto Sahib).”

Legacy and Influence

His particular vocal technique continues to influence artists and Sufi music enthusiasts worldwide. Even 25 years after his death, his voice, poetry, and spiritual knowledge live on in his admirers’ hearts.

A legend remembered, a voice that reverberates throughout time.