Songs of death

The changing reality of life in many parts of this country, especially in the conflict-ridden zones, is such that it is having an impact on even

things like the kind of music people are listening to. The manner in which this has begun to change is in itself reflective of the kind of society we have mutated into. According to a recent report, in Peshawar popular singers, such as Gulzar Alam, have begun singing once again. Even this is a step forward given that the Taliban had, in many areas, banned all forms of music, dance and much other entertainment. In Peshawar, too, CD shops were burnt to the ground and many folk musicians left the city. They have only now begun to return. But the lyrical content of what Gulzar sings has changed dramatically. His songs speak of the blood spilled in his home city and of the horrors people live with on a day-to-day basis. It is these thoughts that today occupy minds rather than ideas of romance, love and happiness. Others in the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have been following the same trend and it has spread wider. One of the country’s best known singers, Ali Azmat, recorded a song some months ago called ‘Bomb Phatta’. This too is the reality with which people everywhere live.

The music of our times reflects the kind of lives we lead. The omens are rather disturbing. We need to find a way to return to a normal existence, one in which people can proceed with the tasks of life without facing constant peril. The fact also is that music and other means of entertainment sink deep into minds. They leave a lasting impression. We have then, today, a generation growing up with images of violence that is a part of the popular music that they hear. This has become something they live with. How long can things continue in this vein and will a time ever come when singers are able to perform without fear and their songs speak of joy rather than death.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 9^th, 2012.