In Conversation with Maanu: Evolution Through Sound
About the Night
The Third Mind invites you for an evening with Maanu, one of South Asia’s most exciting contemporary artists. We welcome him to NYC during his first North American tour, following the release of his debut album Thikaana, which has amassed hundreds of thousands of streams and sold-out shows across the U.S.
During our conversation Maanu will pull back the curtain on his creative journey, from the process behind his hit songs, to the realities of fame and expectations of a nation. Whether you’re curious about the genius behind your favorite tracks, missed out on tickets to his sold-out show, or are an aspiring artist yourself, this is your chance to step inside Maanu’s world and learn about what it took to pursue this path.
Music will be at the heart of the evening. We’ll host a listening session for Thikaana on one of New York’s finest sound systems, as Maanu guides us through the stories and emotions behind the album.
Meet Our Speaker
Born and raised in Lahore, Rehman Afshar, known by his stage name Maanu, is an enchanting singer-songwriter and producer who has captivated the Pakistani music scene with his unique blend of pop, hip-hop and electronic sounds. Collaborating with an array of remarkable artists, including legends like Atif Aslam, Ali Sethi, Abdullah Siddiqui, Talha Anjum and Talal Qureshi, Maanu’s musical prowess knows no bounds.
Embracing an audacious alter-ego dubbed “Chotus” for his forays into rap, Maanu continually pushes creative boundaries with raw energy and an unapologetic attitude. He has already released two acclaimed EPs (Yain City in 2020 and Sakuna Matata in 2022), which offered glimpses of the depth of his imagination. Now armed with his first full-length album Thikaana, Maanu is taking Pakistan’s music into new, yet oddly familiar, frontiers.
Thikaana Track List
Programme
5:00 – 5:30 PM
Arrive, enjoy a beverage from Silence Please's fabulous baristas, or a complimentary glass of wine
5:30 – 7:00 PM
Conversation with Maanu
7:00 – 7:15 PM
Audience Q&A
7:15 – 8:00 PM
Album listening session + social salon, where you can mingle with other guests, and chat with Maanu.
Practical Details
Date: Sunday, February 1st, 2026
Time: 5-8pm
Ticket Purchase Required: Limited capacity — reserve your ticket early! NO tickets will be sold at the door for this event.
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