On Wednesday, 26 February, folk music enthusiasts took to social media to pay tribute to legendary Sindhi folk singer Sadiq Faqeer on his 9th death anniversary. Sadiq Faqeer passed away in a road accident in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, in 2015 while on a pilgrimage for Umrah.
Sindh’s desert region has produced many iconic folk singers, including Mahi Baghi, Mahi Dahi, Kalu Faqeer, Mahi Soni, Sodal Faqeer, and Rajab Faqeer. These artists introduced Sindhi folk music to the world, and their soul-stirring voices continue to be remembered.
Born in Mithi to Faiz Mohammad Mangarhar, Sadiq Faqeer showed musical talent from an early age. He was trained by his uncle Muhammad Hussain and gained recognition through performances at school events and wedding ceremonies. His professional career took off when Inayat Baloch introduced him on Radio Pakistan in 1986, followed by an appearance on PTV in 1988, facilitated by literary figure Shamsul Hyder.
Sadiq Faqeer was known for his mastery of folk and semi-classical music. He composed and sang ghazals, geet, and waee genres, particularly excelling in the works of Shaikh Ayaz, Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai, Ustad Bukhari, and Akash Ansari. Shaikh Ayaz once remarked that Sadiq Faqeer’s voice was the most fitting for his poetry, as he sang from the depths of his heart.
Fluent in multiple languages, including Sindhi, Urdu, Seraiki, Dhatki, Marwari, and Punjabi, Sadiq Faqeer performed internationally in countries such as India, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia. His contributions to Sindhi music were widely recognised, and he received numerous awards for his work.
In honour of his legacy, a roundabout and a degree college in Mithi have been named after him. Each year, fans, musicians, and students gather at his mausoleum to pay tribute to his contributions to folk music.
His sons, Nazakat Faqeer and Rahat Faqeer, have continued his musical legacy. Speaking on the occasion, Nazakat Faqeer emphasised the need for a music and arts academy in Sindh to support young artists. He urged the culture department to establish an institution in his father’s name, ensuring that future generations have a platform to nurture their musical talent.
Some of Sadiq Faqeer’s most memorable songs include Aseen Bas Rahyaseen Adura Adura, Chandni Rat, Thi Amaltas Taan Kook, and Dardan Jo Dastano. His legacy lives on through his timeless music and the voices of those he inspired.