Pakistan's southwestern province Balochistan, known for its rich history, culture, and traditions, also has a unique place in the world of music. The music and poetry of Balochistan, with its traditional instruments, dhamaal dances, and folk songs, tell stories of love, struggle, and heroism. Among those trying to highlight the region’s culture through music is 12-year-old Seemak Baloch, who is using her distinctive voice to bring attention to the cultural beauty of Balochistan.
Seemak Baloch hails from the Kachi district of Balochistan, and her videos featuring songs in Balochi and Brahvi languages have gained a lot of popularity on social media.
Seemak says that she started singing at the age of seven, and this passion came to her through the environment at school.
Seemak Baloch shared, "I go to school in the morning, and after returning in the afternoon, my teacher provides me training. He teaches me about voice modulation and singing techniques. The improvement in my voice from the age of six is a result of my teacher's hard work."
She recalls, "The first time I performed at school, my teacher made me realize that I could sing. From that day till today, I have never abandoned my passion."
For Seemak, singing in Balochi and Brahvi is not just a hobby, but a form of worship and a national responsibility. She believes in preserving the ancient songs of the poets and recreating them.
"I always try to promote Balochi and Brahvi culture and language, and I want to showcase old poetry, folk songs, and traditional music to the world. I also want to focus on Sufi and revolutionary ideas," Seemak says.
Her favorite poets include Ustaad Azim Jan, Ustaad Murad Parkohi, and Ustaad Akhtar Chanal, whom she idolizes.
Although singing is not a common practice in her village or family, Seemak’s parents and teacher have been a great support in her musical journey.
When asked about the challenges she has faced in her journey, Seemak says, "Before I started singing, I used to dance to Balochi songs, and people criticized me, saying it was not our culture. Then when I began singing, they again criticized me, saying, ‘You are a girl; why are you singing?’ ‘This is not what our religion teaches; this is not Baloch culture.’ But I didn’t focus on their comments because my parents were with me."
Seemak shares her first video shoot experience, "For the first time, my video shoot took place in my own village. The women, especially the young girls, were so happy. Balochistan has a lot of talent, but it only needs a little support, encouragement, and attention."
When we contacted Seemak’s parents, her mother shared that Seemak had always quickly memorized the songs she heard as a child and would spend the whole day singing them.
She also shared, "When Seemak’s father posted her video on Facebook, many people would comment, criticizing her for not wearing a scarf. Some would say, ‘Teach the children Islamic teachings. Singing won’t lead to anything.’ Some even said, ‘Baloch culture doesn’t allow such things.’ We had to face all this criticism, but we supported our daughter."
Imdad Baloch, Seemak’s father, shared that he has always encouraged his children to grow up in an environment that fosters freedom and expression. "People will always talk, but I have learned to ignore the negativity and teach my children to do the same. As a father, and as someone who is active in politics and culture, my primary goal has always been to support my children in chasing their dreams," he said.
Imdad Baloch also emphasized, "Seemak may not yet be a professional singer, but she is learning and striving to promote our culture. Unfortunately, there hasn’t been enough attention or support from the government to preserve and advance our native languages and cultural heritage, which is something we desperately need."
He expressed immense pride in his daughter, saying, "For me, the moment I feel the proudest is when Seemak sets a goal and achieves it. She has so much confidence, and she’s eager to learn, explore, and experience the world."
In a province like Balochistan, where conservative values often govern societal norms, Seemak’s voice stands out as both a personal triumph and a quiet rebellion against restrictive expectations. Singing, particularly for a young girl, may be viewed as a deviation from tradition, and yet, Seemak’s passion for preserving her heritage through music has sparked conversation about the evolving role of women in Baloch society. Her story brings attention to how the younger generation in Balochistan can balance modern self-expression with the respect for their cultural traditions.
