Shahid Akhtar Qalandar also known Qalandari is born and raised in Hunza valley, Gilgit Baltistan. At the age 12, he started musical life as a devotional singer within community and later explored Hunza Folk Music. Since no proper recording was available in the region, he concentrated on compositions and song writing, by 2013 he released six albums in a row. He was pioneer in using traditional with modern instruments due to which he attained high reputation in Hunza and soon all over districts of Gilgit Baltistan. His song Thala Thala became anthem to young generations and the folk tune of this song was added to set of traditional folk tunes called Hareep. From college and cultural festivals to cafes and government official dinners,, everyone wanted to see Qalandari performing those songs live. Till date Shahid Akhtar Qalandar has recorded 6 Albums and has been part of promoting cultural music of mountains in local and international level as a lead singer and rubab player.