Biography
Celebrated Pakistani folk singer Arif Lohar has won praise from all around the world for his heartfelt performances and commitment to protecting Punjab’s rich cultural legacy. He was born in Lalamusa, Punjab, Pakistan, on April 18, 1966. His father is the renowned folk singer Alam Lohar. With a strong foundation in Punjabi folk music, Arif’s musical career has taken him across borders and placed him in the hearts of music lovers everywhere.
Quick Facts about Arif Lohar Biography:
| Facts | Information |
|---|---|
| Birthdate | April 18, 1966 |
| Birthplace | Lalamusa, Punjab, Pakistan |
| Family Background | Son of renowned folk singer Alam Lohar |
| Musical Instrument | Known for playing the ‘Chimta,’ a native musical instrument resembling tongs |
| Foreign Tours | Performed in over 50 foreign tours across the UK, United States, UAE, and other countries |
| Notable Performance | Sang in front of a crowd of almost 1 million during the opening ceremony of the 2004 Asian Games in China |
| Awards | Received the Pride of Performance Award by the Government of Pakistan in 2005 |
| Discography | Boasts over 150 albums and more than 3,000 recorded songs, predominantly in the Punjabi language |
| Film Contributions | Played lead roles in Punjabi movies and contributed to the soundtrack of the highest-grossing Pakistani film, “Jugni” (2012) |
| Philanthropic Work | Actively involved in charitable work, including campaigns for health awareness and fundraising for victims of the 2010 Pakistan floods |
Early Life and Heritage:
Arif Lohar was born in the vibrant town of Lalamusa, located in the heart of Punjab, Pakistan. Originating from the village of Aach in Lalamusa, close to Kharian Tehsil, his father Alam Lohar was well-known for his contributions to Punjabi folk music. Arif was drawn to the folk tunes and rhythms that shaped his musical sensibilities because he grew up in a setting rich in musical diversity.
Career and International Recognition:
Over the past 20 years, Arif Lohar’s musical journey has included over 50 international tours, bringing Punjabi folk music’s depth and richness to listeners all over the world. His soul-stirring musical prowess has captivated diverse audiences at prestigious venues across the UK, US, UAE, and other countries during his performances.
Arif Lohar made a lasting impression on a sizable audience of almost a million people when he performed at the 2004 Asian Games opening ceremony in China. Notably, he also gave a performance in North Korea, using music—a universal language—to spread a message of harmony and goodwill.
The contributions of Arif Lohar go beyond his live performances. In addition to writing three classic songs for the soundtrack of Syed Noor’s smash hit film “Jugni” (2012), the highest-grossing Pakistani film of the year, he has starred in several Punjabi films with important roles.
Recognition and Awards:
The Government of Pakistan bestowed upon Arif Lohar the esteemed Pride of Performance Award in 2005, in recognition of his noteworthy cultural contributions and his unwavering dedication to preserving the core of Punjabi folk music. With an amazing discography that includes more than 150 albums and more than 3,000 recorded songs, the majority of which are in Punjabi, Arif Lohar has cemented his reputation as a steward of the region’s rich musical traditions.
Innovation and Collaboration:
In 2006, Arif Lohar created a stir in the Punjabi music industry with his innovative album “21st Century Jugni.” The album, which Mukhtar Sahota produced, arranged, and mastered in Wolverhampton, UK, encapsulated the spirit of modern Punjabi folk music and demonstrated Arif Lohar’s creative development and flexibility in the ever-evolving music scene.
Arif Lohar’s appearance in the third season of Coke-Studio, a well-known Pakistani live session program, marked a major turning point in his career. His work on the classic “Alif Allah (Jugni)” with up-and-coming artist Meesha Shafi received widespread praise, confirming his status as a global representative of Punjabi folk music.
Furthermore, Arif Lohar’s rendition of “Jugni” found its way into the realm of Bollywood, with the rights to the song acquired by acclaimed actor and filmmaker Saif Ali Khan for use in the movie “Cocktail.” This further catapulted Arif Lohar’s musical influence into the realm of global recognition and appreciation.
Philanthropy and Social Impact:
Apart from his artistic accomplishments, Arif Lohar has been actively involved in humanitarian activities. To preserve their father’s legacy, his older brother, Dr. Arshad Mahmood Lohar, founded the Alam Lohar Memorial Trust (ALMT) in 2004. Among the trust’s initiatives was a production studio devoted to promoting awareness for various health campaigns, such as the UK’s Healthy Mothers and Healthy Babies and Stop Smoking campaigns, which were primarily targeted at South Asian communities, particularly Pakistani ones, who were facing health issues.
In the wake of Pakistan’s devastating 2010 floods, Arif Lohar was instrumental in organizing support and relief efforts for the affected communities. His efforts, which demonstrated his strong commitment to social causes and humanitarian endeavors, included televised appeals for local and international fundraising as well as special benefit concerts held throughout Pakistan.
Conclusion:
Arif Lohar’s remarkable journey as a custodian of Punjabi folk music heritage has not only contributed to the preservation and promotion of cultural traditions. But has also transcended geographical boundaries, resonating with audiences worldwide. He is still a source of inspiration because of his incomparable contributions to the music industry and his unshakable commitment to philanthropy. Music and compassion are universal languages that bring people together.
DISCOGRAPHY
- Alif Allah (Jugni)
- Ek Pal
- Bol Mitti Diya Baawiya
- Sher Punjab Da
- Soniye
- Aakhian
- Bhaag Milkha Bhaag (2013)
- Punjab Bolda
- Paar Langadey Veh
- Yaara Kaulu Yaar Gwanchan
- Koka Saat Rang Dah
- Sianyah
- Ik Din Pyaar Da
- Mirza
- Jugni
- Panj Dariyah
- The Legend
- Kamlee Yaar dee Kamlee
- 21st Century Jugni (Mukhtar Sahota)
FAQs: Arif Lohar Biography
Q: What is Arif Lohar known for?
A: Arif Lohar is renowned for his exceptional contributions to Punjabi folk music, his soulful renditions, and his instrumental role in preserving the cultural heritage of Punjab.
Q: What awards has Arif Lohar received?
A: In 2005, Arif Lohar was honored with the prestigious Pride of Performance Award by the Government of Pakistan for his significant contributions to the realm of music and culture.
Q: What is the significance of Arif Lohar’s song “Jugni”?
A: “Jugni,” a timeless Punjabi folk song rendered by Arif Lohar, gained international recognition, featuring in various Bollywood movies and capturing the hearts of music enthusiasts globally.
Q: How has Arif Lohar contributed to philanthropy?
A: Arif Lohar has actively engaged in philanthropic endeavors, including his involvement in health campaigns and his instrumental role in providing aid and support to communities affected by the 2010 Pakistan floods.
