LAHORE: Fans of music all over Pakistan remember their beloved queen of melody Noor Jehan on her 93rd birth anniversary today.

Noor Jehan, born as Allah Rakhi Wasai on September 21, 1925 to a family of local musicians in Kasur, Punjab, was titled as the ‘Malika-e-Taranum’ (Queen of Melody) across the world by her fans due to her unique style of singing that captured the hearts of millions of fans in every corner.

The sad longing in the plaintive strains of “Awaaz De, Kahaan Hai”, the dreamy romance of the sweetly sung “Chandni Raatein”, and the playful affection in the lilting melody of “Ve Mundiyan Sialkotiya” are just a few of the thousands of songs sung by the legendary singer in the world of Punjabi, Urdu, and Hindustani music.

Malika-e-Taranum began her singing career when she was just five years old. Success at rural taka theater performances encouraged the family to move to Calcutta and the bigger stage of maidan theater. Theatrical recognition soon led Jehan to the silver screen.

After Partition, Noor Jehan moved to newly independent Pakistan, but her voice continued to endear her to millions across the entire subcontinent. Her renditions of patriotic songs gave courage to many Pakistanis, and her visit to India in 1982 was met with overwhelming love and enthusiasm.

Her contribution to the art and history of Pakistan will never be forgotten. For her contributions to the arts, the Government of Pakistan awarded her the Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence) and the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (Medal of Excellence).

News Pakistan