Renowned Tharparkar folk singer Arab Fakir passes away at 80

THARPARKAR: Celebrated folk singer Arab Fakir, a revered voice of the Thar Desert, passed away at the age of over 80 after a long battle with illness.

According to family sources, the veteran artist had been undergoing treatment for tuberculosis and kidney-related complications at Civil Hospital Mithi, where he ultimately succumbed to his ailments.

Despite repeated appeals from civil society and cultural activists, the provincial culture department failed to facilitate his transfer to a better medical facility, drawing criticism over its continued neglect of veteran folk artists.

Arab Fakir was widely respected for his lifelong dedication to preserving the cultural heritage of Tharparkar. His music, deeply rooted in local traditions, was performed in the Dhatki, Marwari, Rajasthani, and Thari dialects resonating with audiences across Sindh and beyond.

“Arab Fakir was not just a singer; he was the voice of Thar’s soul,” said local historian and writer Noor Muhammad. “His songs reflected the hopes, hardships, and heritage of desert life. With his passing, we have lost a cultural treasure.”

Among his most beloved songs was ‘Harmarcho’, which remains a staple in the folk music of Thar. His lyrics, often described as rich in “folk wisdom,” captured the poetic essence of desert living, touching on themes of love, loss, spirituality, and resilience.

Arab Fakir dedicated several decades to his art, performing at local festivals, cultural events, and radio broadcasts. Despite his contributions, he lived a life of economic hardship and received little recognition or support from government institutions.

Cultural activists and members of the artistic community have renewed calls for the government to establish welfare programs for senior artists and folk musicians who have given their lives to preserving Pakistan’s diverse cultural legacy.

Arab Fakir’s funeral was held in his native village in Tharparkar, where a large number of locals, admirers, and fellow artists gathered to pay their final respects.