Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi – The Voice of the People, the Soul of Folk Music

Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi, born on August 19, 1951, in Esakhel, Punjab, is a name that resonates deeply within the hearts of millions across Pakistan and South Asia. A pioneer of Pakistani folk and Sufi music, Attaullah’s voice is synonymous with heartfelt emotion, raw pain, and spiritual depth. His journey from a small town in Mianwali to becoming an internationally recognized singer is a story of passion, perseverance, and divine talent.

His early days were filled with struggle, as he faced opposition from family and society regarding his pursuit of music. But his relentless dedication led him to record songs in local studios, and soon his cassettes became wildly popular in Punjab and beyond. By the 1980s, his music had swept across the subcontinent, transcending borders and languages. Singing in Saraiki, Punjabi, Urdu, and Pashto, Attaullah gave voice to the pain of separation, the joy of love, and the mysticism of Sufi thought.

Among his timeless classics are “Qameez Teri Kaali,” “Idhar Zindagi Ka Janaza Uthega,” and “Ni Oothaan Waale Tur Gaye,” which became staples in rural gatherings and urban soundscapes alike. His ability to convey deep emotional stories through minimalistic melodies and raw vocals made him a cultural icon.

Attaullah’s discography is one of the largest in the world, with over 50,000 songs to his credit. He holds a world record for the highest number of audio albums released by a singer. His music became so popular that pirated cassettes flooded the markets in both Pakistan and India during the 80s and 90s, making him a household name even without mainstream media promotion.

He has performed globally in the UK, UAE, USA, Canada, and other countries with large South Asian communities. His music has influenced countless artists and continues to be sampled and covered by younger generations. Even in modern pop culture, his legacy is kept alive through remakes and tributes.

In recognition of his extraordinary contribution to music, Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi was awarded the Sitara-e-Imtiaz by the Government of Pakistan in 2011. His voice has not only entertained but also healed, inspired, and created a sense of belonging for millions.

Today, while he sings less frequently, his influence remains as powerful as ever. His son, Sanwal Esakhelvi, is now carrying the family’s musical torch forward, blending tradition with modernity. Attaullah’s story is not just about music; it’s about becoming the voice of the voiceless, and his songs remain eternal.