The ‘Mehfil – a heartfelt gathering of music’ lit up the Alhamra Art Council in Lahore with rhythm, nostalgia, and emotion.
The night brought together melodies from the mountains of Hunza to the heart of the city, celebrating unity through sound.
Arranged by the Leif Larsen Music Centre, a musical school based in Hunza, the concert blended tradition with youthful creativity.
The event showcased how music can connect generations, carrying stories of culture, resilience, and beauty through every note.
Students from the centre participated in the ‘Youth for Youth’ initiative, a programme designed to inspire young artists nationwide.
Their mission was to preserve the authentic sounds of the north while building bridges with audiences from across Pakistan.
The hall was full as traditional instruments such as the Rubab, Dadang, Vighini, and Chitrali Sitar filled the air with depth.
The Rubab’s warm tone resonated through the space, while the Dadang created a rhythmic heartbeat that grounded every melody.
The Chitrali Sittar introduced a subtle Iranian influence, enriching the performance with soulful undertones and layered soundscapes.
Aisa, the only female musician among the group, captivated the audience with her graceful mastery of the Vighini.
Every note she played carried emotion, echoing the spirit of Hunza.
A touching moment came when Abdullah sang ‘Ranjish Hi Sahi’ during a technical delay, turning it into an emotional highlight. His soulful rendition moved the audience deeply.
The night took an unexpected turn when the legendary rock band Call made a surprise return after fifteen years.
It was at this same venue that the band had launched their first album, making the comeback even more nostalgic.
The crowd erupted as they performed their iconic hits, reviving memories of an era that shaped Pakistani rock.
Zulfiqar Jabbar Khan, widely known as Zulfi, later delivered a stirring solo performance that earned a standing ovation.
Farhan Saeed performed his beloved hit ‘Adat’, enchanting listeners with his soulful voice.
As Hunza’s traditional instruments met Lahore’s modern beats, Mehfil became more than a concert.
By the end of the evening, Alhamra pulsed with emotion, reminding everyone that music is the true heartbeat of Pakistan.
