Ali Sethi: The Torchbearer of Modern Ghazal and Cultural Fusion

Ali Sethi, a name synonymous with modern revivalism in South Asian music, is among Pakistan’s most sophisticated and influential artists today. Born on July 2, 1984, in Lahore, Pakistan, Sethi comes from a family known for intellectual and political engagement. His father, Najam Sethi, is a prominent journalist, while his mother, Jugnu Mohsin, is a well-respected political figure.

Initially known for his literary prowess, Ali authored The Wish Maker (2009), a novel that explored themes of love, politics, and social change in Pakistan. The book garnered critical acclaim internationally, earning Sethi a reputation as a thoughtful and promising writer.

However, his musical journey is where Ali’s artistry reached new heights. A self-trained vocalist who later sought classical music training under Ustad Naseeruddin Saami and Farida Khanum, Ali dedicated himself to reviving traditional South Asian music forms like ghazal, qawwali, and folk, while infusing them with modern, global sensibilities.

Ali gained initial fame with his soulful rendition of “Umran Langiyan” on Coke Studio and continued with impactful performances like “Ranjish Hi Sahi,” “Chan Kithan,” and “Dil Ki Khair.” But it was “Pasoori”—a Coke Studio Season 14 hit in collaboration with Shae Gill—that truly catapulted him into international recognition. The song topped Spotify charts across multiple countries and earned global media coverage for its experimental yet culturally rich vibe.

Ali Sethi’s music is a fusion of classical elegance and modern experimentation. He combines Urdu poetry with electronic arrangements, seamlessly moving between genres while preserving lyrical and melodic integrity. His dedication to traditional forms is not merely nostalgic but academically grounded, making him one of the few contemporary artists who balances scholarly insight with mass appeal.

Beyond music, Ali is also a vocal advocate for cultural dialogue, LGBTQ+ rights, and artistic freedom. His performances often transcend national and linguistic boundaries, as he performs across continents in both intimate and grand settings—from New York’s Lincoln Center to Lahore’s historic venues.

Ali Sethi’s legacy is one of revival, reinterpretation, and resistance. In a time when musical identities are increasingly commercialized, Sethi reminds the world of the power of poetry, the richness of tradition, and the necessity of innovation. With every note and word, he reclaims South Asia’s musical past and brings it vividly into the present.