Freedom of expression: Artistes lauded for playing on

Music day event highlights struggles amid lack of fiscal, physical security

PESHAWAR: Music Freedom Day was observed in the city and tributes were paid to musicians whose passion for the art flies in the face of persecution and deteriorating financial conditions.

A large number artistes and music producers gathered at a hotel in the city on Thursday and expressed their commitment to their profession at an event to commemorate the day. Singers including Zeek Afridi, Shah Sawar, Farah Khan, Hashmat Sahar, Khalid Malik and others performed on the occasion.

Musicians and producers said it was not only the threat of extremists, but also a lack opportunities and the violation of copyrights which crippled the industry. They asked the government to develop institutions to produce quality work based on indigenous.

“It’s a [part of] human rights to perform and to listen to music and follow this profession without fear,” said Nazir Gul, a senior musician. He said performers should stand united and support their persecuted colleagues; “Our only crime was to continue with our passion despite strong opposition,” he added.

A tricky trade

In Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, music shops were blown up and dozens closed down due to threats. The quality of music produced by artistes was also affected. People associated with the industry are looked down upon among certain segments of Pukhtun society. As a result, fresh talent is scared to step into the industry.

Senior musicians have been reluctant to perform in the province and left the country, while women artistes were even more vulnerable.

“This is only of the most vulnerable segment of society as we have no protection from the law-enforcement agencies,” Ahmad Gul said.

“We are trying to work for these artists,” said Culture Director Abdul Basit.He added a culture policy would soon be passed after which a censor board would be set up. Basit pointed out an endowment fund was issuing grants for artistes in K-P.

Music Freedom Day is a global annual event celebrating music and supports persecuted musicians. The event on Thursday was organised by Takhleeq Development Foundation and Cultural Journalist Forum.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 4^th, 2016.