Mai Dhai

Mai Dhai is a Pakistani classical singer from Tharparkar, Sindh. She performs as part of the Mai Dhai Band, which includes Jamal Shab and Muhammad Fakir.

Early life and education

Mai Dhai belongs to the Manganiar community. She hails from the Tharparkar District. Although her specific educational background is not detailed, she remains deeply connected to her cultural roots through her music. Her identity as a member of the Manganiyar tribe informs her vocal style and stage presence.

Career

The singer first gained fame after performing in the Lahooti Live Sessions. This project was produced by the band The Sketches in 2013 to promote indigenous Sufi and folk music among the youth. During these sessions, she recorded songs such as "Doro" and "Moriya" with Saif Samejo. These collaborations helped establish her reputation within the Pakistani music scene.

In 2015, she debuted in the eighth season of the music reality series Coke Studio. She performed two notable tracks during this season. One song, "Aankhaṛli Phaṛookai," featured Karam Abbas Khan. She also sang "Kadi Ao Ni" alongside Atif Aslam. This performance with Atif Aslam received positive responses from both critics and viewers.

Mai Dhai also performs internationally. In March 2015, she traveled to the United States as part of a DubMC collaboration. This initiative involved the US embassy in Pakistan and the Foundation for Arts, Culture and Education (FACE). She performed at the Graduate Center of City University in New York City during the SXSW Music 2015 Global program. Her music style met an extravagant positive response from the American audience.

Her discography includes several works with her band and various collaborators. The Mai Dhai Band has released "Sarak Sarak" and "La Gorey." The track "Sarak Sarak" also appears in the film Ho Mann Jahaan. Saif Samejo of The Sketches previously described her performance style as natural. He noted that his band attempted to incorporate their own music into hers to maintain a Rajasthani flavor.

Personal life

Mai Dhai is the only woman from the Manganiyar tribe to perform on a large stage. In an interview with Broadway World, she expressed confidence in her voice and her heritage. She noted that social restrictions for women singing on stage are becoming stricter. Despite these challenges, she remains hopeful for future generations. She intends to continue singing as long as she possesses her voice.

Awards and recognition

The Government of Pakistan honored Mai Dhai in 2024. She received the Pride of Performance award for her contributions to the music industry. This recognition highlights her impact on classical and folk music.