Fisherman's Melody: Meet Karachi Port Grand's viral Banjo artist

In the heart of Karachi lies Port Grand, a source of tranquility along the waterfront where the city meets the sea. As the sun sets, casting its golden glow over the horizon, the scene comes alive with the majestic silhouette of ships in the distance. 

Couples and families gather, drawn by the promise of serenity and breathtaking sunsets that the site offers, creating cherished moments with their loved ones.

Amidst this serene backdrop, there exists a hidden gem: a fisherman —Mallah, with a soulful touch on his Banjo, a traditional Baloch musical instrument. His melodies weave through the air, enchanting all who hear them, transcending borders to captivate hearts even across the seas in India.

Muhammad Siddique, is a Karachi native whose love for the Banjo has been the soulful heartbeat of Port Grand for nearly two years. 

Born and bred in the port city, Siddique's passion for the Banjo runs deep, resonating through the vibrant atmosphere of the waterfront.

“The Banjo's tune has always held a special place in my heart. In my childhood, I'd eagerly follow the sound of its strings, drawn like a moth to a flame. Back then, Karachi was alive with the melodies of numerous Banjo players, each adding their own magic to the city's soundtrack," he says.

Siddique's journey into the world of Banjo began with a harmonious twist of fate — his marriage. It was through this union that he inherited not just a family, but a legacy of musical heritage. 

Guided by his father-in-law, Siddique embarked on a quest to master the Banjo, delving deep into its intricate melodies and rhythms. Under the tutelage of seasoned masters, known as Ustaads, Siddique honed his craft.

"Yet, in this age of fleeting trends and changing tastes, the art of Banjo playing seems to fade into obscurity," Siddique said. 

He revealed about his effort to ignite the spark of passion in the hearts of many youngsters, but the allure of becoming a singer or guitarist seems to overshadow the beauty of this ancient instrument. 

"Nevertheless, here I am, at Portgrand, where the echoes of my music find resonance in the hearts of those who pause to listen. As I play here, I find immense joy in every strum. Visitors flock, capturing my melodies in videos that travel with them. No one leaves without making my video," he said gleaming with joy.

Connecting Karachi's history with Banjo tradition

When team Geo Digital delved deeper into Siddique's musical world, we uncovered more than just melodies — a hidden talent for craftsmanship.

"The instrument I play is called the Banjo, a cherished piece of Balochi culture," Siddique said. 

But his skills didn't stop at playing; Siddique also crafts these instruments himself. 

"There's a new one I made for myself at home," he shared proudly.

As he continued, Siddique painted a vivid picture of Karachi's rich history. 

"You'll find Banjo artists mainly in Sindh and Balochistan, but we, the mallahs (fishermen) of Karachi, have been here since the colonial era of 1910. Our roots run deep in this metropolis, once calling Boultan market home before many of us migrated to Kharadar."

Siddique's words resonated with a sense of pride as he mentioned the Na Khuda mosque, a landmark named after his community. He concluded with a remarkable revelation that ‘the fishermen still hold onto old receipts from colonial lords, a testament to our settlement near Khadda market’.

Siddique, once a fisherman, found himself drawn to a different path in 2016 when fate led him to the Global Village in Dubai, where his Banjo melodies captured the hearts of foreigners. 

Among them, a group of Indian ladies expressed a desire to learn his tunes instead of pursuing their studies – while sharing this he laughed.

Embracing Social Media Fame: Siddique's growing fanbase

Despite being unable to write a single word, Siddique's ability to memorize tunes is remarkable. He never takes a day off, recognising the value he brings Portgrand’s management doesn't charge him a penny.

"I started playing at a restaurant in Portgrand, but I soon realised that not all my listeners could join me there. I wanted everyone to experience the joy of my Banjo melodies, so I left. 

"Now, I earn my respect and livelihood from my visitors who listen, pay, and make my day. The management shows me videos of my performances, telling me I'm going viral on social media, with many fans from India. That's why I continue to play at Portgrand events, ensuring my music reaches as many hearts as possible," he added.

Siddique’s melodies, crafted with passion and skill, transcend borders and generations, captivating hearts both near and far. With each strum, Siddique not only preserves tradition but also creates moments of joy for many.