Pashto folk singer Mashooq Sultan awarded Rs0.5m

Says she is grateful to govt for supporting her in hour of need

PESHAWAR: Governor Sardar Mehtab Ahmad Khan awarded Rs0.5 million to legendary Pashto folk singer Mashooq Sultan.

The cheque was handed over during a ceremony at Governor House on Wednesday.

Sultan is a seasoned musician who has dedicated her life to keep folk music alive. She has served Pashto music for four decades and has received a large number of awards – including the prestigious Tamgha-e-Imtiaz. However, over the last few years she has been suffering from health complications and is facing financial difficulties. She currently lives in Chughulpura with her family.

Speaking on the occasion, the governor lauded Sultan’s contributions.



“The singer has represented the country all around the world,” he said. “I strongly urge the relevant authorities to provide her with health care facilities.”

Thank you note

Speaking to The Express Tribune, Sultan said she is grateful to the government for helping her and providing her with support in the hour of need.

“A majority of Pashto artists, who have served the music industry for years, are in need of support,” she said.

Sultan hails from Swat and moved to Peshawar to pursue a career in music. She joined Radio Pakistan at the age of 12 and has recorded hundreds of songs. Modern renditions of her songs have also been produced by younger musicians.

“I have given my heart and soul to music,” she said. “Music needs full dedication and spirit. I have spent my entire life to preserve Pashto music.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 27^th, 2015.