Ali Zafar releases 1st Shina Song ‘Karay Karay’

Ali Zafar’s latest track ‘Karay Karay’ is his first in the Shina language, and it pays tribute to the culture of Gilgit-Baltistan.

Ali Zafar releases 1st Shina Song 'Karay Karay' f

“Ali Zafar is promoting Pakistan’s regional culture."

On Eid-ul-Adha 2025, Ali Zafar surprised fans with a unique musical release titled ‘Karay Karay,’ his first-ever song in the Shina language.

The track celebrates the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant traditions, and rich cultural heritage of Gilgit-Baltistan.

This release marks another milestone in Zafar’s ongoing efforts to spotlight Pakistan’s regional languages through music.

‘Karay Karay’ also features local singer and composer Salman Paras, who brought heart to the project.

‘Karay Karay’ was directed and produced by Zafar, with long-time collaborator Ali Mustafa joining him behind the scenes.

The lyrics, capturing the spirit of the region, were written by Zafar Waqar Taj.

In a heartfelt social media post accompanying the release, Ali Zafar extended Eid greetings.

He also praised the people of Gilgit-Baltistan for their warmth and hospitality.

The singer emphasised that the world deserves to witness the beauty of Pakistan.

This sentiment resonates deeply through the visuals and sound of Karay Karay’.

Within its first 24 hours online, the music video quickly began trending and reached over 100,000 views.

Viewers from across the country flooded the comment section with praise, with many thanking Ali Zafar for giving voice to underrepresented regions.

A user wrote: “Ali Zafar is promoting Pakistan’s regional culture. Huge respect from Gilgit-Baltistan.”

One fan added: “After the Pashto, Balochi, and now Shina song, absolutely amazing work. I don’t understand Shina, but their music is truly outstanding.”

Even those from different linguistic backgrounds expressed admiration for the track.

A listener wrote: “Loved this song by Ali Zafar and Salman Paras! It’s in Shina, which I don’t understand since I’m Balti, but the vibe is amazing!”

Others noted how the cultural emotion and rhythm of the music transcended language.

A fan declared: “Ali Zafar you are the symbol of Pakistani music.”

The visual presence of the popular Gilgit-Baltistan figure Rainbow Chacha added another layer of charm to the already vibrant video.

Ali Zafar has previously sung in Saraiki, Sindhi, Balochi, Punjabi, and Pashto, each time receiving love from fans.

His commitment to inclusivity and cultural representation through music continues to set him apart from other artists.

‘Karay Karay’ is not just a song, it’s a tribute to Gilgit-Baltistan’s identity and a reminder of how art can connect people across languages, mountains, and traditions.

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Ayesha is our South Asia correspondent who adores music, arts and fashion. Being highly ambitious, her motto for life is, "Even the Impossible spells I'm Possible".





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