Pashtun Hujra Culture Faces Erosion from Modern Trends
APP
Peshawar: Once a vibrant hub for cultural events, the hujra (guest house) of Bahadar Khan in Mohib Banda village, Nowshera, now stands nearly deserted, reflecting the adverse impact of social media on regional music in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
Historically, this hujra hosted weekly concerts during weddings and celebrations, drawing local audiences eager to enjoy live music and connect with one another.
Bahadar Khan, who has kept the hujra open since 2000 in honor of his father’s legacy, noted a significant decline in interest from the youth due to the rise of social media.
“The doors of my hujra are still open for cultural programs, but social media and in-house gatherings have diminished enthusiasm for musical events,” he lamented.
Bahadar recalled the days when renowned artists like Khayal Muhammad and Ustad Rafiq Shinwari captivated audiences. Today, empty chairs replace the lively crowds that once gathered to discuss regional and global issues.
Local singer Shahzaib Khan, who began his career at this hujra, acknowledged the decline in live music events due to the prevalence of social media, emphasizing the importance of cultural gatherings for fostering a tolerant and vibrant community.
Bakhtzada Khan, a senior research officer at the archaeology and museums department, highlighted that hujra culture dates back approximately 5,000 years in KP, playing a significant role in Pashtun traditions and social cohesion.
The hujra serves not only as a gathering place but also as a center for learning and instilling cultural values. Notable Pashto poets have recognized its significance in their works, underscoring its role in preserving music and traditions.
As internet usage in Pakistan surges—over 111 million users with many engaging on social media—traditional cultural practices face new challenges. The popularity of platforms like Facebook and TikTok has further shifted attention away from local music.
Khayal Muhammad, a leading figure in Pashto ghazal, described the hujra as the backbone of Pashtun society, warning that the decline of this cultural institution represents a loss for the entire community.
Actor Javed Babar emphasized that while other cultures may have community centers, for the Pashtuns, the hujra is vital for ethical learning and cultural engagement.
Community leaders believe that revitalizing the hujra and regional music is achievable. They suggested integrating Wi-Fi and modern amenities to attract youth, allowing them to blend entertainment with cultural education under the guidance of elders.
They called on the KP government to implement a comprehensive plan to rejuvenate hujra culture and local music, proposing the establishment of libraries, game rooms, and meeting spaces equipped with internet access to support young artists and musicians.
