Legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan being remembered today

Today marks the 17th death anniversary of Shahenshah-e-Qawwal (King of Qawwali music) Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was born on 13th October 1948 in Faisalabad. His father Fateh Ali Khan was a renowned Qawwal as well. He received training from his father and used to perform with him.

Time Magazine included his name in the list of Asian heroes. He was lauded with international awards throughout his career.

He released 125 albums which is a world record. His qawwalis such as Dum Mast Qalandar Mast, Ali (R.A) Maula Ali (R.A), Yeh Jo Halka Halka Suroor (This light intoxication), Mera Piya Ghar Aaya (My beloved comes home), Allah Hoo, Kinna Sohna Tenu Rab Ne Banaya (How beautiful the Lord has made you) were his most famous ones.

Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan recited Hamd called Wohi Khuda Hai (He is the God) was well appreciated alongwith a national song Mera Paigham Pakistan (my message is Pakistan). His song Jane Kab Honge Kum, Iss duniya ke ghum (when will the pains of the world end?) for Kashmir is still being sung and listened today.

He has also collaborated with music directors and singers across the world such as Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, A.R. Rehman and Peter Gabriel.

Many books were written about the personality and art which Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan had. The qawwaal possesed a unique vocals and could sing for high intensity for several hours without taking a break. Japanese used to call him “The Singing Buddha”. He was the first to introduce Fusion (expriment) music in Pakistan by collaborating Asian and Western music styles together.

The renowned musician won several national and international awards. He was awarded the prestigious Pride of Performance award by the government of Pakistan in 1987.

He passed away on 16th August 1997 due to Lung cancer. His songs and music are still being listened and sung all over the world.