Mai dhai biography

Mai Dhai is a Pakistani classical singer. In 2013, Mai Dhai performed at the Lahooti live session. She is an incredible artist and a significant source of inspiration for me. Hailing from the arid yet culturally vibrant region of Tharparkar in Sindh, Pakistan, she has emerged as one of the country’s most iconic folk singers.

Recognition at this stage in my career is profoundly meaningful, and I am incredibly grateful to for highlighting my work and efforts

How important do you think such initiatives are for women artists of our country?

Initiatives like EQUAL Pakistan are vital for empowering women artists in our country.

Her performance, deeply authentic and emotionally stirring, introduced global audiences to the folk music of Sindh.

This partnership has allowed me to explore contemporary music styles while working with renowned producers like Ahsan Bari and Malik. Through her songs, the desert speaks, cries, rejoices, and lives on.Mai Dhai, the desert songstress, has become a legend, a voice that bridges past and present, rural and urban, Pakistan and the world.

you & me

Mai Dhai, a classical singer from Tharparkar, Sindh, Pakistan, is renowned for her captivating performances and her significant contributions to folk music.

Being born into a musical family, I was constantly surrounded by songs and instruments. I believe it was my destiny to follow in the footsteps of my ancestors and continue this beautiful art form.

What is your specialised genre of singing?

My singing is primarily focused on folk music, deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of our region.

Limited opportunities, social resistance, and lack of exposure could have silenced her voice — but her resilience kept her moving forward.

Dressed in traditional Thari attire, embellished with vibrant jewelry and the cultural pride of her heritage, she stands not only as a singer but as a cultural ambassador. Through her music, she represents the struggles, joys, and identity of the people of Thar.

A Legacy in the Making

Today, Mai Dhai is more than a performer; she is a custodian of Sindh’s intangible cultural heritage.

The song was produced by Ahsan Bari, and I am thrilled to collaborate with him again on another song. This tribe has a rich heritage of storytelling through music that spans centuries. Her song ‘Koyal’ is featured on the EQUAL Pakistan playlist, celebrating her artistry and providing her a platform to reach even wider audiences. This event likely involved promoting Pakistani music and culture to an international audience through Mai Dhai's performance.

Understanding and preserving old music and its history is crucial. A proud member of the Manganiar community, Mai Dhai’s journey began with Lahooti Live Sessions, where her collaboration with Saif Samejo and The Sketches highlighted her distinctive Rajasthani style.

Despite cultural challenges, Mai Dhai remains steadfast, voicing her heritage and inspiring future generations.

Mai Dhai’s music gained international acclaim when she performed at SXSW (South by Southwest) Music 2015 in the US, receiving an enthusiastic response.

Rising to national prominence on Coke Studio’s eighth season, she performed unforgettable songs like ‘Aankha li Pha ookai’ and ‘Kadi Ao Ni’ alongside notable artists. I hope to travel the world, performing and representing my community, country, and the musical traditions of my ancestors.

This performance was more than just entertainment, it was a reclamation of indigenous music on mainstream platforms.