Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's 66th birth anniversary today

Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was born October 13, 1948 in Faisalabad. He is considered one of the pioneers of fusion music and is called as the king of qawwali music.

He received his training from his father Ustad Fateh Ali Khan, who was a renowned qawwal as well. The maestro used to perform with his father in different programs.

Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali was the first musician to merge eastern and western musical styles together. He has collaborated with musicians such as Lata Mangeshkar, A.R. Rehman and Peter Gabriel.

He also holds the world record for releasing the highest number of albums released with 125 albums to his name. His famous qawwalis include Ali (R.A) Maula Ali (R.A), Dum Mast Qalandar Mast and Mera Piya Ghar Aaya (My lover has come home).

He possessed amazing vocal capabilities and could perform for several hours with high intensity.

His hamd Wohi Khuda Hai and national song Mera Paigham Pakistan is still sung and listened by the nation today.

Many books are written on his personality and art as well.

Time Magazine included Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s name in their list of Asian Heroes whereas Japanese called him “The Singing Buddha”.

The qawwal maestro was lauded with several national and international awards as well.

The Government of Pakistan awarded the prestigious Pride of Performance award to Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan in 1987 for his contribution and services to Pakistan.

The king of qawwal passed away due to a lung cancer in 1997.

It is of no doubt that Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was a gem in the history of Pakistani music and his songs and musical style is still listened in the world today.