“Yeh Jo Halka Halka Suroor Hai…”—when Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan sang this iconic qawwali, listeners were transported to a realm of spiritual ecstasy. Even today, his voice resonates in the hearts of millions around the world. Despite passing away on August 16, 1997, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s legacy continues to thrive, as evidenced by the upcoming release of his new album, Lost, set to launch on September 20, nearly 27 years after his death. Released by Real World Records, the album is a testament to his enduring influence on global music.
A Voice Beyond Borders
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan may have lived in Pakistan, but his voice knew no borders. His music transcended the lines drawn between countries, reaching the hearts of people everywhere. On the occasion of his death anniversary, we take a closer look at the life of this musical legend, whose voice still echoes in every corner of the world.
The Birth of a Legend
Born on October 13, 1948, in Lyallpur (now Faisalabad, Pakistan), Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was deeply influenced by Sufism, which shaped his musical journey. When he sang, it was as if the audience was drawn into a state of spiritual trance, experiencing a deep connection with the divine. His name, “Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan,” translates to “The Path to Success,” a name that would prove prophetic.
A Name Change with Divine Guidance
The story of how Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan got his name is as intriguing as his music. Initially named Parvez Fateh Ali Khan, he was born into a family with a rich musical heritage. His father, Fateh Ali Khan, was a renowned qawwal. To celebrate Parvez’s birth, a grand event was organized, attended by many prominent figures in the music world.
However, a Sufi saint, Peer Ghulam Gaus Samdani, who was present at the event, suggested an immediate name change. He advised Fateh Ali Khan to rename his son “Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan,” and from that moment, the name Parvez was replaced by Nusrat. This change marked the beginning of a journey that would lead Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan to become a global musical icon.
Musical Roots and Early Training
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s ancestors hailed from Afghanistan and later migrated to Jalandhar, India. When the country was partitioned, his family moved to Faisalabad. Coming from a family with a 600-year-old musical legacy, Nusrat received rigorous training in music from a young age. His father, Fateh Ali Khan, introduced him to the intricacies of music, while his uncle, Salamat Ali Khan, trained him in qawwali. Through years of dedication and practice, Nusrat became a master of his craft.
The Rise to Global Fame
According to Britannica, Nusrat’s father passed away in 1964. Following this, Nusrat began performing with his uncle Mubarak Ali Khan at various events. His big break came in 1971 when he performed at the Urs of Hazrat Dadaganj Baksh. This performance catapulted him to fame, and soon the world couldn’t resist the allure of his voice.
In 1985, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan performed in the United Kingdom, marking the beginning of his international journey. He quickly became a global sensation, with concerts in Europe and the United States. In 1989, he made his first trip to the United States and contributed to several films in the 1990s. Musician Peter Gabriel played a crucial role in Nusrat’s global success, helping him become a superstar through the World of Music Arts and Dance (WOMAD) festival and recordings on the Real World Records label.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s Bollywood Connection
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan also had a deep connection with Bollywood. His song “Koi Jaane Koi Na Jaane” from the 1997 film Aur Pyaar Ho Gaya became an instant chartbuster. In 2000, the film Dhadkan featured his song “Dulhe Ka Sehra Suhana Lagta Hai,” which remains a wedding favorite to this day. His song “Khaali Dil Nahi” from the 1999 film Kacche Dhaage also garnered significant attention.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan died in London
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan passed away on August 16, 1997, in London, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations. His qawwalis like “Dil Galti Kar Baitha Hai,” “Mere Rashqe Qamar,” “Sochta Hoon,” “Tumhe Dilgi Bhool Jaani Padgi,” “Ye Jo Halka Halka Suroor Hai,” “Kaali Kaali Zulfon Ke Fande Na Daalo,” “Tum Ek Gorakhdhandha Ho,” “Chhap Tilak Sab Chheeni Re,” “Husne Jaana Ki Tareef Mumkin Nahi,” and “Saanson Ki Mala Pe” are still cherished by music lovers around the world.
