Arirang Master - No: 2424
Saif Samejo, born on January 23, 1983, is a dedicated musician and cultural practitioner from Sindh, Pakistan. Deeply inspired by the rich heritage of his homeland, Samejo’s work often reflects the echoes of the ancient Indus Valley civilization. His lyrical storytelling seamlessly blends traditional and contemporary elements, harmonizing melodies from regions such as Tibet, Nepal, Ladakh, Baltistan, and Sindh. In 2013, he founded Lahooti, a platform dedicated to collecting and preserving melodies, poetry, and oral traditions from across Pakistan, infusing them with a global essence and presenting them to the world.
Skill and Mastery:
Saif Samejo has demonstrated exceptional skill in blending traditional Sindhi music with contemporary sounds, creating a unique fusion that resonates globally. His work with Lahooti Live Sessions and Lahooti Melo showcases his ability to document, preserve, and innovate within the realm of traditional music. Samejo’s musical talents extend beyond performance to include composition and cultural consultancy, as evidenced by his involvement with Coke Studio Pakistan and other significant projects.
Creativity and Innovation:
Samejo’s innovative approach is evident in his ability to merge diverse musical traditions, creating a rich tapestry of sounds that transcends cultural boundaries. His projects, such as the albums "Mitti" and "Pari Sufna," exemplify his creative vision by mixing indigenous instruments and languages with elements from various music genres. The establishment of Lahooti Melo, Pakistan’s largest international folk and world music festival, further highlights his commitment to cultural innovation and collaboration.
Education and Mentorship:
Through Lahooti Music Aashram, Samejo has established a hub for teaching traditional instruments, vocals, and visual arts in Jamshoro, Sindh. His efforts to include music in Sindh’s curriculum and his work with rural and urban students demonstrate his dedication to education and mentorship. By creating platforms for knowledge exchange and cultural preservation, Samejo ensures that the rich musical traditions of Sindh are passed on to future generations.
Accolades and Achievements:
Saif Samejo’s contributions to music and cultural heritage have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. Notable accolades include the Best Traditional Music Award by SEPMA, the Latif Award from the Government of Sindh, and international recognition for his song "Jogi" at the New Mexico Music Awards. His work has been featured on prestigious platforms such as Coke Studio Pakistan, and he has represented Pakistan at international conferences and festivals, solidifying his status as a leading cultural ambassador.
Relevant Short Videos:
Lahooti Melo Highlights
Interview with Shahzaib Jillani
Coke Studio Season 11 and Season 4 Performances
Saanjhi Music Video
Mann Moriya
Maara Urta Bhawariya