Surriya Khanum

Surriya Khanum is a veteran Pakistani folk and classical singer from the Punjab. She performs Sufi music on Pakistan Television and various other TV channels.

Early life and education

Khanum received extensive musical training from several masters. Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan trained her for 8 years. She also underwent formal training under Ustad Faiz Ahmed for a period of 21 years. These mentors helped shape her classical foundation.

The singer draws inspiration from various legendary artists. She is musically influenced by the veteran folk singer Tufail Niazi. Her style also reflects the work of Reshma and Iqbal Bano. Ustad Muhammad Juman served as an early musical influence during her development.

Career

Her professional singing career began in 1977 at Radio Pakistan's Multan Station. She has since become a prominent figure in folk and classical music. Khanum frequently performs soulful Sufi compositions for national audiences. Her repertoire includes several traditional songs.

She recorded the Kafi song "MenDa Ishq Vi Toon," which was written by the 19th century Sufi poet Khawaja Ghulam Farid. This specific folk song has a long history and was previously performed by Inayat Hussain Bhatti and Pathanay Khan. Other notable singles in her discography include "Toonba – Turr Multanon Toonba Aaya" and "Raataan Jaagni Aan." She also recorded "Yaar Toon Kithay Vain" along with "Way Main Chori Chori Tere Naal La Layyan Akhhaan Wey."

The singer's work includes the song "Ramzaan KehRay Velay Laaiyan" and "Mera Chann Masta." She also performed "Bhul Jaania Kisay De Naal Pyaar Na" and "Saaiyaan." Her discography features "Bol Mitti Daya Baawia," which is a folk song originally sung by Alam Lohar.

In 2015, Khanum appeared as a featured artist on the eighth season of the music reality series Coke Studio Pakistan. During this season, she performed the popular wedding song "Chirya Da Chamba." This performance included Anwar Maqsood, who provided a narration of a letter. The song depicts the parting of a father and his daughter at a wedding. It focuses on a daughter who reminisces about her time spent at her family home.

The performance received significant attention from critics. One major Pakistani English-language newspaper reported that Khanum's command on singing is intimidating. They noted that the music is minimal and serves as a bedrock for her vocals. It was stated that the song created a memorable experience for the audience.

Awards and recognition

While no specific award ceremonies are listed, her Coke Studio performance earned critical praise. A major English-language newspaper in Pakistan highlighted her intimidating vocal command. The collaboration with Anwar Maqsood is also noted for its successful composition and narration.