The Aga Khan Music Programme announced that Bahrain's Qalali Folk Band has been selected as a finalist for the 2025 Aga Khan Music Awards, leading a list of 22 nominees from 16 countries, representing top musicians and artists worldwi
TDT | Manama
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The Aga Khan Music Programme announced that Bahrain’s Qalali Folk Band has been selected as a finalist for the 2025 Aga Khan Music Awards, leading a list of 22 nominees from 16 countries, representing top musicians and artists worldwide.
This nomination honours the band’s rich history spanning over a century, dedicated to preserving Bahrain’s authentic maritime musical traditions linked to pearl-diving songs, Naham chanting, and divers’ rhythms.
Leading example
Qalali Folk Band has become a leading example in protecting national heritage and a key part of Bahrain’s musical memory.
The Aga Khan Music Awards ceremony will be held at London’s Southbank Centre on 22 November 2025, with the final winners announced on 3 November 2025.
This distinguished nomination is a national achievement reflecting pride in Bahrain’s folk heritage and its role in strengthening national identity as a living legacy passed through generations, preserving traditions that mirror the authentic civilisation of Bahrain.
Oldest
Qalali Folk Band is one of Bahrain’s oldest traditional music groups, founded over a hundred years ago.
The band is known for performing various Bahraini folk arts, especially Al Nahma, sung at sea during pearl-diving expeditions, and Al Fjiri, performed on land after the divers return.
These arts combine unique rhythms and dances expressing the artistic authenticity of Qalali village’s people in Muharraq.
