PESHAWAR - As the vibrant wedding season unfolds in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, local musical bands are experiencing a resurgence, reinvigorating traditional celebrations and enriching the cultural landscape of the region. One prominent figure in this revival is Barakat Ali alias Bakhtawar, a 49-year-old harmonium master who leads a successful musical ensemble, enthralling many on live performances. Since migrating from Punjab in 2018, Bakhtawar has transformed his passion for music into a flourishing livelihood, serving as the harmonium master for the Khyber Music Band at Ghanta Ghar Peshawar.
Bakhtawar’s journey is one of resilience. “Since the wedding season began, I’ve been fully booked,” he shares, his satisfaction evident. Talking to mediamen he said, “All my Sunday bookings are completed up to March next year.
” This surge in demand underscores a broader trend where families seek to create unforgettable experiences through live music, blending traditional instruments with lively performances. The Khyber Music Band, composed of Bakhtawar and five other talented musicians, has become a staple at weddings, resonating with diverse audiences through a mix of traditional and contemporary music. Their performances at local hujras traditional gathering spaces have not only entertained but also revitalized community bonds.
On a recent Saturday night, Bakhtawar and his band performed at the hujra of nazim Qasier Khan in the village of Mohib Banda, Nowshera. As they played, th.
