Renowned Pashto folk singer Gulrez Tabassum passed away at a local hospital on Wednesday at the age of 77 after a prolonged illness, bringing an end to a musical career that spanned several decades.
He was later laid to rest in Kakakhel Town, Peshawar.
Born in Mardan in 1950, Gulrez Tabassum was widely regarded as one of the prominent voices of traditional Pashto folk music. He earned recognition for his distinctive singing style and his efforts to preserve the region’s rich musical and poetic heritage.
He began his musical journey with Radio Pakistan Peshawar and later gained popularity through PTV Peshawar Centre, live stage performances and Pashto films. His performances introduced traditional Pakhtun folk music to a wider audience and earned him a lasting place among regional music lovers.
Tabassum was particularly admired for his commitment to traditional music, preferring classical instruments such as the rubab and acoustic percussion over modern electronic sounds. His songs often featured traditional tappay, the popular two-line folk verses reflecting the emotions, romance, joys and hardships of Pakhtun society.
His musical repertoire also included traditional badala and narrative qissa ballads, which have been passed down through generations as an important part of Pashto literary and cultural heritage.
Throughout his career, he performed at local hujra gatherings, appeared in television broadcasts and recorded numerous regional songs. His contributions to Pashto music helped keep traditional folk poetry and melodies alive among successive generations.
However, the veteran singer had stepped away from music more than a decade ago because of declining health. According to family sources, his condition deteriorated in recent years, leaving him bedridden before he breathed his last at a local hospital.
Gulrez Tabassum’s death has marked the loss of an important voice in Pashto folk music. He will be remembered for his soulful performances, dedication to traditional Pakhtun melodies and efforts to preserve the region’s cultural identity.
His legacy will continue through his recorded songs, film tracks and the musical traditions he helped sustain.
