The Story Behind Maula-e-Kull
Maula-e-Kull is Abida Parveen's devotional centerpiece from Coke Studio Pakistan's ninth season, released in 2016. Parveen sang and composed the performance, with Sabir Zafar writing its central prayer and Lal Shahbaz Qalandar's poetry entering in the later Haidari-am passage. Shani Arshad directed the music, while Strings produced the session. The arrangement begins almost without pulse, leaving space around Parveen's commanding, meditative voice. Sarod and restrained percussion color the opening before bass, dhol and a firmer pop-rock drive turn the closing section into a shrine-like dhamaal. A contemporary Dawn review singled it out among the season's memorable performances, noting how its simplicity lets Parveen's voice command the studio even as the rhythm gathers force.
Meaning & Translation
Maula-e-Kull means "Master of All," an address to God that frames the song as a plea rather than a declaration of personal power. Its central idea is divine mercy: the speaker believes a single compassionate glance can cleanse human failings and restore the soul. Abida Parveen's performance turns that appeal from quiet inward reflection into ecstatic devotion. When the song moves into Lal Shahbaz Qalandar's Haidari-am poetry, the focus widens toward the Qalandari tradition and reverence for Ali, often called Haidar. The growing rhythm gives that spiritual surrender a communal shape, as if private prayer has become dhamaal. The meaning rests on humility, grace and the hope of transformation.
Details
- Artist
- Abida Parveen
- Category
- Coke Studio
- Collection
- Coke Studio Season 9
- Released
- 2016
- Genre
- Devotional, Sufi Rock
- Mood
- Devotional
- YouTube Views
- 16.32M
Artists & Credits
- Abida Parveen singer
- Abida Parveen composer
- Sabir Zafar lyricist
- Lal Shahbaz Qalandar lyricist
- Shani Arshad musician
- Strings producer