Pakistani Musicians Use Folk and Rap to Combat Climate Change

Villagers in Umerkot, Pakistan, are turning to music as a powerful tool to raise awareness about climate change. Folk musician Sham Bhai, hailing from Sindh, performs poignant songs that address the devastating impact of climate-related disasters on local communities. Her lyrics echo the struggles faced by those living in a region that has experienced severe flooding, which affected tens of millions of people across the country in recent years.

During her performances, Sham captivates her audience with her heartfelt melodies, singing in Sindhi, the provincial language that resonates more deeply with the local population than the national language, Urdu. Her songs convey the urgency of climate adaptation, emphasizing vulnerability in a region where literacy is low and access to information is limited. “When we give a message through song, it is easy to communicate to people because they understand it,” the 18-year-old artist explained.

In 2022, Sindh recorded over 1,000 rain-related deaths within just a few months. The aftermath of these floods remains evident, with many residents still living amid broken roads and collapsed homes. Sham’s lyrics capture the pain of loss and the struggles of women and children, who often bear the brunt of climate-induced hardships. “The meaning of the song is that poor people’s homes built on mud are not strong,” she explained, highlighting the precariousness of their living conditions.

The climate crisis has forced local farmers like Ghulam Mustafa Mahar to adapt their practices. He noted, “The monsoon season used to come on time, but now it starts late. Sometimes there is no rain. All patterns are off-course due to climate change for the last five years.” Faced with unpredictable weather, many farmers have shifted focus from crops to livestock to ensure their survival.

Women’s Voices in Climate Advocacy

The role of women in these communities is critical, as they often shoulder the responsibilities of farming, gathering food, and caring for families. Sham pointed out that during extreme weather events, women and children are particularly vulnerable, with many suffering greatly when floods strike. One villager recounted how heavy rain in 2022 tragically crushed homes, resulting in fatalities, including children.

In a parallel effort, activist Urooj Fatima, known by her stage name Sindhi Chhokri, is using rap music to engage broader audiences on climate issues. Based in the city of Jhuddo, she began focusing on climate change awareness after devastating floods impacted her village. “We can engage a lot of audiences through rap. If we go to a village and gather a community, there are a maximum of 50. But everyone listens to songs,” she said, emphasizing the potential of music to reach thousands.

Although hip-hop is not widespread in Pakistan, Urooj believes it resonates with the struggles and stories of the people. She has written raps addressing the floods and the lack of government support, aiming to draw attention to the plight of those affected. Her lyrics are a call for justice, as she raps, “Where was the Balochistan government when the floods came? My pen thirsts for justice.”

Urooj and her sister, Khanzadi, actively promote climate awareness through performances, protests, and social media campaigns. They advocate for the Sindh government to prioritize climate education for rural populations, recognizing the disproportionate impact of climate change on women and girls, who often face heightened challenges in displacement, education, and health.

“Climate change affects a person’s whole life,” Urooj stated, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change. Despite facing backlash for discussing sensitive topics, she remains resolute in her mission. “Rap is a powerful platform. If our rap reaches just a few people, then this is a very good achievement. We will not let our voices be suppressed,” she affirmed.

In Umerkot and beyond, these musicians are harnessing the power of song to amplify vital messages about climate resilience and adaptation. Their efforts not only entertain but also educate, inspiring communities to take action against the looming threat of climate change.