LAHORE: Renowned Pakistani folk singer and musician Tariq Tafu has passed away at the age of 58, leaving fans and the music industry grieving the loss of one of the country’s beloved cultural icons.
According to family members, Tariq Tafu experienced severe abdominal pain on Monday and was taken to a private hospital in Lahore for medical treatment. However, his condition worsened and he suffered a cardiac arrest during treatment. Despite efforts by doctors, he could not be revived.
He is survived by his wife, one son, and two daughters.
Tariq Tafu gained nationwide recognition with his hit song Lahore Lahore Aye, released in 2004. The track became a cultural phenomenon, celebrating the spirit of Lahore and helping promote the city’s identity and tourism. Its immense popularity made the singer a household name across Pakistan.
Born into a distinguished musical family, Tariq was the son of legendary composer and tabla virtuoso Ustad Tafu Khan, who passed away in October 2024. His brother, Ustad Wajid Tafu, is also a well-known figure in the country’s music scene.
He was also linked to another prominent musical lineage through marriage, as celebrated ghazal maestro Ustad Ghulam Ali was his father-in-law, while singer Shabnam Majeed was among his close relatives.
In recognition of his services to Pakistani music and culture, Tariq Tafu received the Pride of Pakistan Shield in 2025.
His passing came just a day after he shared a heartfelt Father’s Day tribute to his late father on social media, a post that has since drawn emotional reactions from fans and fellow artists.
