Tariq Mahmood Awan

We’ve all experienced it. Cruising down a chaotic Lahore road, the world a blur of honking horns and weaving rickshaws. Yet, a melody cuts through the din, a song by Mansoor Malangi or the soulful strains of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, provides beautiful feelings. Suddenly, the tension eases, replaced by a rhythm that mirrors the beat of our own hearts. This isn’t magic; it’s music, and its power to transform our experience is undeniable.

Our love affair with music goes beyond mere entertainment. It offers a sanctuary, a place to momentarily escape the outside world. As melodies wash over us, our minds become pleasantly distracted, offering a respite from daily stressors. Music can also be a mood-booster. Whether it’s an upbeat tempo that gets our hearts racing or a calming melody that soothes our souls, music can subtly shift our emotional state. And the benefits extend beyond the mind. The rhythmic nature of music can lull our bodies into a state of relaxation, with some studies suggesting our brainwaves can even synchronize with the beat, promoting a sense of peace.

But why? Why does a sequence of sounds have such a profound impact on us? The answer lies deep within our very being, woven into the fabric of our existence. Some believe it’s an echo of the divine, a reflection of God’s love for beauty (Jamal). After all, nature itself is a symphony of sights and sounds, a constant interplay of rhythm and order. Music, then, becomes an extension of this natural world, resonating with something fundamental within us.

This innate appreciation for musicality goes beyond mere aesthetics. It’s a code embedded in our DNA. When we hear music, it triggers a cascade of reactions within our bodies. Uplifting melodies trigger the release of dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Slower, calming pieces can soothe our nervous systems and induce relaxation. It’s as if our inner selves are collaborating with the music, seeking a sense of balance and harmony.

However, our love for music isn’t monolithic. The specific types of music that resonate with us are shaped by our environment and experiences. A man raised on the earthy tones of folk music will find solace in its familiar melodies. Sufi music, with its connection to spirituality, might hold a deeper meaning for those drawn to its message. Here, the universal appeal of music intertwines with the subjective development of our own aesthetic preferences.

This beautiful marriage of the universal and the personal is what makes music such a powerful tool. It transcends cultural boundaries, offering a language understood by all. It speaks to our deepest emotions, providing a voice for joy, sorrow, love, and everything in between. Music isn’t just entertainment; it’s a reflection of our humanity, a way to connect with ourselves and the world around us.

There’s a reason music isn’t considered a cultural taboo in most societies, unlike Pakistan. It aligns perfectly with our inherent desire for beauty, for stories, for a deeper connection to something larger than ourselves. In today’s world, it’s a powerful medium that can address social issues, celebrate cultural heritage, and ignite the flames of love and passion.

For Pakistan, with its rich musical tapestry, the potential is immense. By nurturing and promoting its unique musical treasures, Pakistan can share its cultural symphony with the world. The world needs to hear the stories embedded within Pakistani music, stories that resonate with the universal human experience while celebrating the beauty of a distinct cultural identity. After all, music isn’t just sound; it’s a bridge, a connection, and a reminder of the beauty that binds us all.

Pakistan vibrates with a hidden melody. It peeks through in the rhythmic clatter of everyday life, the exuberant pulse of Sufi shrines, and the soulful strains drifting from bustling music stores. Yet, a dissonance lingers. Social taboos cast a long shadow, shrouding the very creators of this music – the singers, the instrumentalists, the artists who breathe life into these melodies. They are labeled “Meerasi,” a term heavy with prejudice, a stark contrast to the joy their music evokes.

This hypocrisy chills the soul. We, as a nation, tap our feet and hum along, yet turn a blind eye to the societal burdens placed on the architects of our sonic amalgams. It’s a paradox that stifles not just the artists but the very spirit of the music itself.

But a hopeful undercurrent stirs. The tide of acceptance is slowly rising. More and more voices are joining the chorus, demanding an end to these outdated taboos. We must dismantle the walls of prejudice and celebrate the artists as the storytellers they are. Their music isn’t just entertainment; it’s a form of poetic justice. It holds a mirror to our society, reflecting our joys and sorrows, our triumphs and struggles.

In these troubled times, when hope seems a distant echo, music becomes a beacon. It becomes the voice of a nation yearning for change, a powerful tool that can translate the collective emotions into a call for action. It can galvanize social movements, fuel political discourse, and spark cultural rejuvenation.

Pakistan’s rich musical heritage deserves a vibrant industry that empowers artists and amplifies the nation’s voice. To achieve this, a multi-pronged approach is needed. Firstly, dismantling social stigmas surrounding musicians (often labeled “Meerasi”) is crucial. Public awareness campaigns and educational efforts can challenge these outdated notions, fostering respect for the artistry and dedication required to excel in music. Secondly, investment in music education is essential. Establishing accessible music schools across the country can nurture young talent, providing them with the technical skills and theoretical foundation to thrive. This can be coupled with artist development programs, mentorship opportunities, and workshops that hone songwriting, performance, and production skills. Thirdly, fostering a network of performance venues is vital. Encouraging the creation of live music spaces, from intimate cafes to large concert halls, will provide a platform for artists to showcase their talent and connect with audiences.

Additionally, embracing online platforms like streaming services and social media can give aspiring musicians a global audience and new avenues for monetization. Finally, intellectual property protection needs to be strengthened. Copyright laws should be enforced effectively, ensuring fair compensation for musicians and encouraging investment in original music creation. By implementing these measures, Pakistan can create a thriving music industry that empowers artists, provides a platform for national self-expression, and positions Pakistani music on the global stage.

Imagine Pakistan, a nation unafraid to sing its own song. Imagine the streets alive with the unfettered melodies of its people, a symphony of hope and resilience. It’s a future worth fighting for, a future where music isn’t just tolerated but celebrated as the lifeblood of a vibrant nation. Let Pakistan’s song rise, unburdened and clear, a testament to the indomitable spirit of its people.