Junaid Jamshed's first death anniversary observed

The first death anniversary of singer-turned evangelist and Islamic scholar Junaid Jamshed is being observed today, leaving behind precious memories and sorrow among friends, family and followers.

Junaid Jamshed was returning from a proselytizing visit from Chitral when the ill-fated flight PK-661 crashed near Havelian in Hazara division en route Islamabad. Forty-seven passengers including Junaid Jamshed’s wife died in the tragic incident.

Jamshed launched his music career with Vital Signs band famous the “Dil Dil Pakistan” song which was released on 14th August 1987 and is widely regarded as the second anthem.

Junaid Jamshed started performing in Islamabad and later met Rohail Hyatt, Shahzad Hasan and Shahi Syed and formed the band which became highly successful and gained a lot of public and media attention. Later he started a solo career and went on to launch four successful albums.

Former band mate and singer Salman Ahmed said that ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ was released in an era of oppression and dictatorship and this united the nation. Salman, who later formed the Junoon band, said he left Vital Signs but never left his friendship with Junaid Jamshed.

Fakhre-Alam said there is no doubt that Junaid Jamshed was an international star, and he realised during tours with him how much his fans loved him and were desperate to meet him.

READ MORE: Amid tears and tributes, Pakistan said ‘goodbye’ to Junaid Jamshed

However, Junaid Jamshaid quit his musical career and joined the Tableeghi Jamaat in 2002. He embarked a spiritual journey dedicating his life to the teachings of Islam under his mentor cleric Maulana Tariq Jameel.

He also became a famous Naat and Hamd reciter. The transition was slow and gradual as he had a keen interest in religion, which was a change from the contemporary world to the Hereafter.

He also was known for hosting the popular Ramazan shown on ARY News. He was awarded Pride of Performance in 2007. He was buried at the Jamia Daruloom in Karachi. He left behind his first wife, three sons and a daughter.

Junaid Jamshed may be no longer among us but us but his memories will be forever entrenched in our minds forever.

ALSO READ: Junaid Jamshed among 47 dead in PIA plane crash near Havelian