Noor Jahan (The Melody Queen)
Noor Jehan, originally named Allah Rakhi Wasai, was born on September 21, 1926, into a Punjabi Muslim family in Kasur, Punjab, sub-continent. She became renowned as Malika-e-Tarannum (Queen of Melody) for her exceptional contributions to music and cinema in the Indian subcontinent.Her musical journey began at the age of six, demonstrating early talent and receiving formal training in classical singing in Calcutta. Recognizing her potential, her father facilitated her training under Ustad Ghulam Mohammad and Kajjanbai, immersing her in the Patiala Gharana’s traditions.
In 1935, she entered the film industry in Bombay, where she gained popularity as “Baby Noor Jehan.” Her breakthrough came in 1939 when music director Ghulam Haider composed songs for her, marking the start of her illustrious career.
During 1945-1947, Noor Jehan dominated the Indian film industry, starring in top-grossing films like “Badi Maa,” “Zeenat,” and “Mirza Sahiban,” which became milestones in her career.
After the partition of India in 1947, she migrated to Pakistan and continued her cinematic legacy, directing and starring in the 1951 hit “Chan Wey.” She transitioned to exclusively playback singing in 1960, leaving behind a legacy of over 10,000 songs recorded in Urdu, Punjabi, and Sindhi, including collaborations with notable artists like Ahmed Rushdi and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
Noor Jehan received numerous accolades throughout her career, including the Pride of Performance award in 1965 and the Sitara-e-Imtiaz in 1996. She was the first Pakistani singer to perform at the Royal Albert Hall in London in 1991, highlighting her international acclaim.
She passed away on December 23, 2000, leaving behind a lasting impact on Pakistani music and cinema. Her influence transcended borders, with artists like Madonna acknowledging her unique talent and contribution to music.
She also sang some famous national songs during the 1965 war which warmed the blood of the Pakistani nation and strengthened their enthusiasm and passion. Some of her national songs are;
· Ay Puttar Hataan ty nhe Wkday
· Aye Jaan-e-Watan
· Aye Watan ke Sajeelay Jawanon
· Sohni Dharti Allah Rakhay
· Mera Shehar Qusoor ni
· Mera Mahi Chhail Chhabeela
· Aye Watan Tere Paigham par Agaye Hum
· Rang Laye ga Shaheedon ka Lahoo
· Mera Sipahee hai laakhon mai Aik
· Yeh Hawaon ke Musafir
· Maidan Tumhare Hath Rahe
· Umeed-e-Fateh Rakho aur Qadam barhaye Chalo
· Aye Sherdil Jawanon
· Meriya Dhol Sipahiya
Noor Jehan’s legacy endures as a cultural icon and ambassador of Pakistan, celebrated posthumously with honors such as the Google Doodle on her 91st birthday in 2017 and being declared the Greatest Female Singer of Pakistan in August 2014. Her contributions to music continue to inspire generations, cementing her status as a pioneer in the realm of South Asian music and cinema.
