Manama: In a new international cultural milestone for the Kingdom of Bahrain, Qalali Folk Band has been awarded the 2025 Aga Khan Music Awards, in recognition of its distinguished contribution to preserving Bahrain's authentic maritime musical traditions and its unique artistic style rooted in the nation's rich cultural heritage.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the official announcement was issued by the Aga Khan Music Awards Committee, under the patronage of His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan, revealing eleven laureates for this year's edition. The winners represent leading musicians and artists from across the globe, with particular praise extended to the legacy of Qalali Folk Band and its role in elevating Bahrain's musical identity on the international stage.
On this occasion, Shaikh Khalifa bin Ahmed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, stated: 'This remarkable achievement, recognised internationally, is more than a global honour for Qalali Folk Band, it is a reaffirmation of the depth and richness of Bahrain's folk heritage and its enduring cultural presence. Our national musical ensembles embody the living memory of our nation. We remain committed to safeguarding and sustaining our musical traditions for future generations, and to strengthening society's connection to its authentic maritime arts.'
The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities underscores the importance of folk heritage in preserving the Kingdom's intangible cultural traditions, and continues its efforts to document and safeguard authentic Bahraini performing arts as essential expressions of national identity.
UNESCO has inscribed Fjiri, a traditional Bahraini musical form, on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, further affirming Bahrain's leading role in preserving Gulf musical heritage.
Qalali Folk Band is one of Bahrain's oldest and most renowned traditional ensembles, with a legacy spanning over a century. The band has dedicated its work to preserving Bahrain's maritime folk arts, offering a distinctive fusion of rhythmic and expressive performances that embody the spirit and memory of the nation, particularly through Nahma and Fjiri. This enduring dedication has cemented the band's position as a national symbol and a prominent voice within both the local and international cultural landscape.
The Aga Khan Music Awards champion principles of cultural diversity and human dialogue, supporting artists worldwide and fostering creativity that bridges heritage and innovation.
The award ceremony is scheduled to take place at London's Southbank Centre on November 22, in partnership with the EFG London Jazz Festival. Presented every three years, the Aga Khan Music Awards honour exceptional achievements across diverse musical cultures inspired by the heritage of Muslim societies and contribute to advancing cultural dialogue and understanding among nations.