Ustad Farida Mahwash, often simply known as Mahwash, is a venerable artist revered for her mastery in Afghan classical music and her contributions to the genre of Ghazal. Born in Kabul, Afghanistan, she rose to prominence as one of the first women from her country to gain international recognition as a professional singer. Mahwash's career began in the early 1970s when she was employed by Radio Kabul, the state broadcaster, where her distinct and emotive voice captivated audiences across Afghanistan.

Her music offers a poignant reflection of Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage, underscored by the emotional depth of her vocal delivery, which resonates with the experiences of her people. After the political turmoil that ensued following the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, Mahwash was forced to continue her career in exile, carrying the essence of Afghan music to the global stage. Her recent works, such as "Sehra," "Yad E Kabul," and "Matreeb," serve as both artistic explorations and cultural preservations of traditional Afghan music. These pieces showcase her exceptional talent in blending classical styles with modern sensibilities, and her voice continues to be a conduit through which the soulful narratives of Afghan history and romance are told. Despite the adversities, Mahwash has remained an iconic figure in the world of music, sharing her nation's musical heritage and inspiring generations with her enduring artistry.