Mountain Melodies: Honoring Pakistan’s Folk Music and Cultural Heritage

Serena Hotels, as part of its Cultural Diplomacy Initiative, joined hands with Aga Khan Cultural Services, Pakistan (AKFC, P) and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) to celebrate and promote the rich cultural music and heritage of Pakistan through a delightful evening of folk music. The event was a mesmerising journey into Pakistan’s vibrant traditions, featuring melodious tunes and captivating performances that showcased the essence of the nation’s cultural identity. Renowned artists, including Dr Masuma, Ustad Noor Bakhsh, Ustad Doshambay, and talented students from the Leif Larsen Music Centre, performed live, leaving the audience fascinated with their artistry and passion. The Leif Larsen Music Centre, founded in April 2011 at the historic Altit Fort, serves as a beacon of the revival of folk music of the region. It provides invaluable facilities for traditional musicians and performers from Gilgit-Baltistan and Chitral, enabling them to mentor youth in diverse traditions and genres of mountain music, ensuring the continuity of these cherished art forms.