Our country lost a gem, isn’t even aware

Muhammad Ziauddin, a Lahore-born instrument maker, has departed this life, leaving a legacy of artistic workmanship and cultural conservation. Famous musician Arieb Azhar posted the news of Ziauddin’s demise on Facebook, praising his distinct character, insight, and contribution to Pakistan’s musical history.

I recently learned that Muhammad Ziauddin, a legendary Lahore instrument builder, departed from this life four days ago. “He had a unique personality, full of humor and wisdom,” said Azhar in a Facebook post.

“On several occasions, I spent several hours at his shop listening to his stories and jokes and benefiting from his vast knowledge about the musical traditions of Pakistan,” Azhar continued in homage. In addition to other stringed instruments, he was a skilled maker of sitar, sarod, sarangi, and surmandal. His family has been creating instruments for 300 years.”

Several others, including Azhar, were fortunate enough to spend hours in Ziauddin’s shop, where they were able to marvel at his instruments and absorb his jokes, anecdotes, and extensive knowledge of Pakistan’s musical traditions. Ziauddin put his all into every instrument he made, demonstrating his devotion to his trade.

“He was one of the main subjects featured in our film ‘Indus Blues’ about the endangered musical instruments of Pakistan,” Azhar continued. But he didn’t even succeed in owning the store where he worked, even though he was the beneficiary of a Presidential prize. To restore a culture of decency and beauty in the world, our State must invest in and assist these individuals.”

In his homage, Azhar bemoaned the absence of assistance for craftsmen such as Ziauddin, underscoring the necessity of governmental funding and backing to preserve and revitalize Pakistan cultural legacy. In addition to being a loss for his family and the music industry, Ziauddin’s demise serves as a reminder of how important it is to honor and preserve the accomplishments of others who were like him. “Our country has lost a gem and isn’t even aware,” said Azhar. “His worthy son Kashan carries on his father’s legacy,” he said in closing. May Ziauddin Sahab have eternal blessings on his path!