Amjad Hadi Yousafzai
PESHAWAR : A prestigious tribute ceremony was organized by Mashal
.VP, in collaboration with the Culture and Tourism Authority Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, to recognize the outstanding contributions of legendary Pashto singer and Shahenshah-e-Ghazal Khyal Muhammad and his talented singer son, Anwar Khyal. The event was held at Nishtar Hall, Peshawar, and was attended by people from various walks of life, renowned singers, musicians, artists, and music enthusiasts, who gathered to pay tribute to the celebrated father and son.
The programme was hosted by Shazma Haleem, CEO of Mashal.VP, while Muhammad Ilyas served as Programme Director and Muhammad Owais Yousafzai as Director Marketing. Both played important roles in organizing and managing the event.
The ceremony commenced with a special poetic tribute to Khyal Muhammad, presented in the voice of Professor Dr. Abaseen Yousafzai, who paid homage to the legendary artist and acknowledged his remarkable contributions to Pashto music.
Later, Wisal Khyal, Faisal Khyal, and Shahzad Khyal escorted Khyal Muhammad and his son Anwar Khyal onto the stage, where they received a warm welcome from the audience.
A major highlight of the event was the arrangement of live music. Singers performed some of Khyal Muhammad’s old and popular songs with live musical accompaniment, taking the audience on a nostalgic journey through the golden era of Pashto music.
Popular contemporary singers Hashmat Sahar, Asfandyar Momand, and Gul Akbar Rahi presented a specially composed tribute anthem dedicated to Khyal Muhammad. They also performed his memorable songs, paying tribute to his extraordinary musical legacy.
Mina Ulfat and Noori Khan also showcased their vocal talents, while senior musician Master Nazir Gul gave an impressive musical performance, adding further charm to the evening. The live performances transformed the gathering into a memorable celebration of Pashto music and cultural heritage.
During a special segment of the ceremony, Dr. Niaz Ali, Chairman of the Artists Action Foundation, along with other distinguished personalities, honoured Khyal Muhammad and Anwar Khyal by presenting them with traditional turbans as a mark of respect and recognition for their artistic contributions.
In their speeches, the participants said that Khyal Muhammad, through his distinctive voice, captivating style of singing, and exceptional artistic abilities, had given Pashto ghazal a unique identity and widespread popularity. His songs continue to enjoy immense popularity among music lovers, and his voice remains an unforgettable chapter in the history of Pashto music.
The speakers also appreciated Anwar Khyal’s artistic abilities and outstanding performances during his healthy years. They observed that he had won the hearts of music lovers through his talent and dedication and had played an important role in carrying forward his father’s musical legacy.
Expressing concern over Anwar Khyal’s current illness, the speakers offered special prayers for his speedy and complete recovery. They emphasized that artists are a valuable asset to society and that recognizing their contributions during their lifetime is a collective cultural responsibility.
Participants appreciated Mashal.VP for organizing the event, saying that such initiatives not only recognize the services of senior artists but also help introduce younger generations to their language, music, and cultural heritage.
The ceremony concluded with prayers for Anwar Khyal’s recovery and a renewed commitment to preserving and promoting the musical legacy of these distinguished artists for future generations. The evening served as a beautiful reminder that true artists continue to live in the hearts of their admirers through their timeless voices, unforgettable melodies, and lasting contributions to culture and society.
