Mehdi Hassan would have turned 98 today, and fans nationwide are marking the occasion with tributes to the man widely hailed as the Shahenshah-e-Ghazal.
Born on 18 July 1927 into a family of Kalawant musicians, Mehdi Hassan became the voice of classical ghazal for more than four decades. His haunting baritone, strict respect for ragas, and inventive melodic turns brought ghazal singing to global audiences. From coffeehouses in Karachi to concert halls in London, his art crossed every border.
Mehdi Hassan’s legacy lives on
Radio channels are airing special programmes, while television stations are replaying his timeless film tracks. Cultural centres in Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad are hosting evening sittings where young singers attempt classics such as “Ranjish Hi Sahi”. Music teachers say learning a Mehdi Hassan ghazal is still a rite of passage for any serious vocalist.
During his long career, Hassan sang for more than 300 Pakistani films. He also mentored a new generation, inspiring legends like Jagjit Singh and Parvez Mehdi. Many credit him with elevating Urdu poetry worldwide through perfect diction and deep emotional delivery.
Awards came from every corner. He received the Pride of Performance, Tamgha-e-Imtiaz, Hilal-e-Imtiaz, and the highest civilian honour, Nishan-e-Imtiaz. Yet the Maestro often said the greatest reward was the audience’s silent sigh after a delicate murki or an unexpected taan.
Even after his passing in 2012, Mehdi Hassan remains a benchmark for excellence. Streaming numbers rise each year as young listeners discover his recordings online. For music lovers in Pakistan, his 98th birthday is not just a date on the calendar; it is a reminder that true art never fades.
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