The 26th death anniversary of legendary folk and Sufi singer Ustad Pathanay Khan is being observed today, with admirers remembering his immense contribution to traditional music.
Born in 1926 in the village of Tambu Wali in Kot Addu, his real name was Ghulam Muhammad. Pathanay Khan was primarily a folk singer who gained widespread fame for his semi-classical renditions of kafis, ghazals, and folk songs, which captivated audiences both in Pakistan and abroad.
He was widely admired for his mastery of ghazal, kafi, and traditional folk music, enchanting listeners for several decades with his powerful and emotive voice. Pathanay Khan famously performed the mystical poetry of renowned Sufi poets including Khawaja Ghulam Farid, Bulleh Shah, and Mehr Ali Shah.
In recognition of his outstanding contribution to music, the Government of Pakistan honoured him with a Presidential Award in 1979, while he received 79 awards throughout his illustrious career.
Former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was also an admirer of Pathanay Khan’s soulful voice, which was known for its depth, emotional intensity, and spiritual appeal.
Among his most famous renditions are the Sufi classics “Meda Ishq Vi Toon, Meda Yaar Vi Toon” and “Alif Allah Chambe Di Booti,” which brought him international recognition.
Ustad Pathanay Khan passed away on March 9, 2000, in a state of financial hardship. He was laid to rest in Kot Addu, where fans continue to honour his legacy in the world of Sufi and folk music.
