Industry insiders remember Noor Jehan on 18th death anniversary

Showbiz personalities paid a tribute to the 'Malika-e-Tarannum' in remembrance, for her excellent services

LAHORE: Fans and musicians around the globe missed melody queen Noor Jehan on her 18^th death anniversary. Showbiz personalities paid a tribute to the 'Malika-e-Tarannum' for her excellent services and contributions to the industry.

“Noor Jehan was a great lady. She managed to earn fame in an era when there was not much advancement when it came to musical instruments, technology and media," senior folk singer Shoukat Ali shared with The Express Tribune. "She set an amazing example for young talent and I was privileged to see her shine during that era. Her death was a big loss for our music industry and she will be remembered forever."

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Noor Jehan dominated the music industry for around six decades. She sang thousands of songs in various languages including Punjabi, Urdu, Pashto, Sindhi and others. The legendary star was always the first to be considered to playback for Lollywood films and also became the first female film director of the Pakistan's film industry.

She was born on September 21, 1925, in Kasoor, Punjab. Her official name was Allah Rakhi Wasai and she came from a family associated with the field of music. Following the family's traditions, she began singing in her childhood.

The Tum Ankhon Se Door singer was five years old when she started studying music under the renowned Ustad Bady Ghulam Ali Khan, who taught her basics. She started performing from a very young age and she also recorded songs which impressed family and musicians alike. Her family then decided to move to a bigger city for a brighter future for Noor Jehan. Consequently, they moved to Calcutta.

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Besides singing, the renowned artist also had an interest in acting since she was a child. She starred as a child artist in a number of films before the creation of Pakistan. In 1942, she played the lead role opposite famous actor Pran in Khandan. This film proved to be a huge success after which Noor Jehan moved to Bombay in 1943 with film director Syed Shaukat Hussain Rizvi. She married him the same year.

“Noor Jehan was a very good soul, - someone who was down to earth and always willing to teach new comers. There was no one quite like her; no female singer with such enriching talent," said singer Humaira Arshad.

After Partition, both husband and wife returned to Pakistan where the Is Ankh Mein Jadu Hai crooner's long, successful career as a singer and actor began. Noor Jehan performed in 14 hit films including Palki, Anarkali, Jugnu and Mere Huzoor but went back to singing in 1960. She was also a prominent figure during the 1965 and 1971 Wars.

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“Pakistan's music history began with with madam Noor Jehan. Our industry was at its peak at that time due to her wonderful contributions. She used to be the ruling singer once," stated senior singer Tarunam Naz.

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She continued, "I believe that the world of music is incomplete without Noor Jehan in our country. She was a real asset for Pakistan. She still entertains music lovers, even today. Its been 18 years since her passing but her work and talent is proof that she deserves the title of Malika-e-Tarannum."

Noor Jehan was awarded with Sitara e Imtiaz, Tamgha e Imtiaz and Pride of Performance during her career. She passed away on December 23, 2000, aged 74.

Edited by Ramsha Vistro.

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