Lahore, Pakistan – October 26, 2024
T
he Pakistani music world lost one of its most celebrated icons today as Ustad Altaf Hussain Tafu, known widely as Ustad Tafu or simply “Tafoo,” passed away in Lahore at the age of 77. Known for his mastery of the tabla and his groundbreaking contributions to classical and film music, Ustad Tafu’s death marks the end of an era for South Asian music.
Born in 1945 in Lahore, Pakistan, Ustad Tafu hailed from a family steeped in classical music traditions that spanned seven generations. From a young age, he was surrounded by musical influences, which guided him on a path to becoming one of the most revered tabla players in the country. He began his career in 1970 when he composed his first film song, “Sunn Wey Balori Akhh Waaliya,” sung by Noor Jehan for the film Anwara. The following year, he composed the hit “Mahi Keh Gaya Milan Ga Main Fer Aa Ke Te Dass Ke Tareekh Na Gaya” for Sajawal. Over the years, he worked with renowned Pakistani artists, including Noor Jehan, Shaukat Ali, Inayat Hussain Bhatti, Naheed Akhtar, and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, composing music for more than 100 films.
Ustad Tafu also contributed to contemporary music in Pakistan, appearing on Coke Studio Pakistan in Season 7 (2014), where he showcased his tabla skills alongside Bilal Maqsood and the pop-rock group Strings. His participation in Coke Studio introduced him to a new generation of listeners who admired his artistry. In 2018, he collaborated with Adil Omar on the album Transcendence, where he appeared as an arranger and percussionist, displaying his versatility as both a tabla player and a harmonium artist.
In addition to his musical talents, Ustad Tafu had a lasting impact on Pakistan’s music industry by introducing future stars. In a 2017 interview, he revealed that he introduced Naseebo Lal as a playback singer, marking her entry into the film industry.
Ustad Tafu’s contributions to Pakistani music were celebrated with numerous awards. He won the Nigar Award for Best Music in Dubai Chalo (1979) and was honored with Pakistan’s prestigious Pride of Performance Award in 2023, recognizing his lasting influence on the country’s musical heritage.
Ustad Tafu is survived by his family, including his sons—musicians Tariq Tafu, Tanveer Tafu, and Sajjad Tafu—who continue his legacy.
Tributes and Condolences from Leadership
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed deep sorrow over his passing, noting the profound loss to Pakistan’s cultural heritage. “Ustad Tafu Khan’s remarkable talent and dedication to his art inspired a generation and will continue to do so for generations to come,” she stated in a condolence message, highlighting the void felt by his family, fans, and fellow artists alike.
As Pakistan mourns, fans, friends, and artists reflect on the rhythmic legacy left by Ustad Tafu Khan—a musician whose timeless contributions continue to resonate across generations.
