Balochistan’s Tambura Voice Wins Excellence Award

Nabila Hafiz

Islamabad: The traditional sounds of Balochistan’s tambura have earned national recognition after renowned folk musician Shiaan Khan Bugti was awarded the Balochistan Excellence Award for his contribution to preserving and promoting the province’s cultural heritage.

The award was presented by Balochistan Governor Syed Zahoor Ahmed Agha at a ceremony held at Governor House Quetta, organised in connection with Pakistan Day celebrations to honour individuals serving in different fields.

Hailing from Dera Bugti district, Shiaan Khan Bugti has spent decades promoting Balochistan’s folk music at national and international platforms, representing Pakistan’s cultural identity through the traditional string instrument.

Speaking about his journey, the 56-year-old artist said the tambura has remained close to his heart since childhood. He began learning the instrument at the age of eight from his father, who was also a performer.

After his father’s death, Shiaan continued the family’s musical tradition and carried forward the legacy of tambura performance. His younger brother has also contributed to the craft by specialising in making tamburas and maintaining their tuning.

Over the years, Bugti has performed in several countries, including Canada, Germany, the United States and Iraq, introducing audiences abroad to Balochistan’s unique musical traditions.

He also represented Pakistan in India, where his performances received appreciation from audiences and recognition for his artistic talent. Bugti recalled that during his visit to India, cultural exchanges between the two countries created opportunities for artists to connect beyond political differences.

The folk musician expressed hope of returning to India in the future to perform again, saying that art and music have the power to bring people closer.

Through his decades-long career, Shiaan Khan Bugti has emerged as one of the prominent voices keeping Balochistan’s traditional music alive, using the tambura as a bridge between cultures and generations.