Surojit098 (talk | contribs) No edit summary |
CleanupBot (talk | contribs) m Robot: Replacing encoded entity with character |
||
| Line 11: | Line 11: | ||
| native_name_lang = غلام علی | | native_name_lang = غلام علی | ||
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=y|1940|12|05}} | | birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=y|1940|12|05}} | ||
| birth_place = Galotian Khurd, [[Daska]], [[Punjab (British India)|Punjab]], [[British Raj]] | | birth_place = Galotian Khurd, [[Daska]], [[Punjab (British India)|Punjab]], [[British Raj]]<br />(now in [[Sialkot District|Sialkot, Pakistan]]) | ||
| background = solo_singer | | background = solo_singer | ||
| genre = {{flatlist| | | genre = {{flatlist| | ||
| Line 26: | Line 26: | ||
'''Ustad Ghulam Ali''' ({{langx|pa|{{Nastaliq|غُلام علی}}}}; born 5 December 1940) is a [[Pakistani]] [[ghazal]] singer of the [[Patiala Gharana]]. Ghulam Ali is considered one of the greatest ghazal singers of his era. He has also been a prominent playback singer in Bollywood. He is a disciple of [[Bade Ghulam Ali Khan]]. Ali was also trained by Bade Ghulam Ali's younger brothers, Barkat Ali Khan and Mubarak Ali Khan. | '''Ustad Ghulam Ali''' ({{langx|pa|{{Nastaliq|غُلام علی}}}}; born 5 December 1940) is a [[Pakistani]] [[ghazal]] singer of the [[Patiala Gharana]]. Ghulam Ali is considered one of the greatest ghazal singers of his era. He has also been a prominent playback singer in Bollywood. He is a disciple of [[Bade Ghulam Ali Khan]]. Ali was also trained by Bade Ghulam Ali's younger brothers, Barkat Ali Khan and Mubarak Ali Khan. | ||
His style and variations in singing [[ghazals]] are unique, as he blends [[Hindustani classical music]] with ghazals, unlike any other ghazal singer. He is highly popular in Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, as well as among [[South Asian]] diaspora in the US, the UK and the Middle Eastern countries. | His style and variations in singing [[ghazals]] are unique, as he blends [[Hindustani classical music]] with ghazals, unlike any other ghazal singer. He is highly popular in Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, as well as among [[South Asian]] diaspora in the US, the UK and the Middle Eastern countries.<ref name="APNA">{{cite web |author=Amjad Parvez |date=8 April 2014 |title=Legendary singer Ghulam Ali |url=http://apnaorg.com/articles/dailytimes-25/index.shtml |access-date=16 July 2019 |website=Academy of the Punjab in North America (APNA) website}}</ref> | ||
Many of his hit ghazals have been used in [[Bollywood]] movies. His famous ghazals are ''[[Chupke Chupke Raat Din]]'', ''[[Kal Chaudhvin Ki Raat Thi]]'', ''[[Hungama Hai Kyon Barpa]]'', ''Chamakte Chand Ko'', ''Kiya Hai Pyar Jise'', ''May Nazar Se Pee Raha Hoon'', ''Mastana Peeye'', ''Ye Dil Ye Pagal Dil'', ''Apni Dhun Mein Rehta Hoon'' a [[ghazal]] by [[Nasir Kazmi]], ''Ham Ko Kiske Gham Ne Maara''. His album ''Hasratein'' was nominated in the Best Ghazal Album category at the Star GIMA Awards 2014. | Many of his hit ghazals have been used in [[Bollywood]] movies. His famous ghazals are ''[[Chupke Chupke Raat Din]]'', ''[[Kal Chaudhvin Ki Raat Thi]]'', ''[[Hungama Hai Kyon Barpa]]'', ''Chamakte Chand Ko'', ''Kiya Hai Pyar Jise'', ''May Nazar Se Pee Raha Hoon'', ''Mastana Peeye'', ''Ye Dil Ye Pagal Dil'', ''Apni Dhun Mein Rehta Hoon'' a [[ghazal]] by [[Nasir Kazmi]], ''Ham Ko Kiske Gham Ne Maara''. His album ''Hasratein'' was nominated in the Best Ghazal Album category at the Star GIMA Awards 2014. | ||
==Early life== | ==Early life== | ||
Ghulam Ali was born in 1941 in the [[Sialkot District|Sialkot district]] of present-day Pakistan and was a child during the Partition of India, an event he recalls only faintly. He was introduced to music at an early age, coming from a musical family; his father was a musician, being a vocalist who could play the [[sarangi]], | Ghulam Ali was born in 1941 in the [[Sialkot District|Sialkot district]] of present-day Pakistan and was a child during the Partition of India, an event he recalls only faintly. He was introduced to music at an early age, coming from a musical family; his father was a musician, being a vocalist who could play the [[sarangi]],<ref name=":0">{{cite web |last=Parvez |first=Amjad |title=Legendary singer Ghulam Ali – Part I, II, III |url=https://apnaorg.com/articles/dailytimes-24/index.shtml |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251226135004/https://apnaorg.com/articles/dailytimes-24/index.shtml |archive-date=26 December 2025 |access-date= |website=[[Academy of the Punjab in North America]] |publisher=}}</ref> and recognized his talent when one of his teachers noticed him humming a song at school and encouraged him to sing. At the age of 8, Ghulam Ali began formal training under his father, who assigned him a [[Raga|raaga]] to practise intensively on the [[Pump organ|harmonium]], laying the foundation for his musical discipline. Though his grandmother initially objected to the rigorous training, his father believed early childhood was essential for building a strong musical base. He was named after the classical vocalist Ustad [[Bade Ghulam Ali Khan]], whom his father greatly admired, and later had the opportunity to train under the legendary musician. His father aspired for him to become a ghazal singer, and Ghulam Ali began practising seriously from the age of 9.<ref name="easterneye2021">{{cite web |last=Mehta |first=Anjali |date=7 December 2021 |title=Ghazal great Ghulam Ali in his own words |url=https://www.easterneye.biz/ghazal-great-ghulam-ali-in-his-own-words/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251226123515/https://www.easterneye.biz/ghazal-great-ghulam-ali-in-his-own-words/ |archive-date=26 December 2025 |access-date= |website=[[Eastern Eye]]}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{cite web |date=2 January 2007 |title=When Rafi woke up Ustad Ghulam Ali |url=http://update.im.rediff.com/movies/2007/jan/02ali.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251226124034/https://update.im.rediff.com/movies/2007/jan/02ali.htm |archive-date=26 December 2025 |access-date= |website=[[Rediff]]}}</ref> | ||
Ghulam Ali encountered Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, for the first time, when he was in his early teens. Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan had toured [[Kabul]], Afghanistan and, on the way back to India, Ghulam Ali's father requested the Ustad to take his son as a disciple. But Khan insisted that since he was hardly in town, regular training wouldn't be possible. But after repeated requests from Ghulam Ali's father, Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan asked the young Ghulam Ali to sing something. It wasn't easy to have the courage to sing before him. He mustered the courage to sing the [[Thumri|rhumri]] ''Saiyyan Bolo Tanik Mose Rahiyo Na Jaye''. After he finished, Ustad hugged him and made him his disciple. | Ghulam Ali encountered Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, for the first time, when he was in his early teens. Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan had toured [[Kabul]], Afghanistan and, on the way back to India, Ghulam Ali's father requested the Ustad to take his son as a disciple. But Khan insisted that since he was hardly in town, regular training wouldn't be possible. But after repeated requests from Ghulam Ali's father, Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan asked the young Ghulam Ali to sing something. It wasn't easy to have the courage to sing before him. He mustered the courage to sing the [[Thumri|rhumri]] ''Saiyyan Bolo Tanik Mose Rahiyo Na Jaye''. After he finished, Ustad hugged him and made him his disciple.<ref name=APNA/> Apart from the harmonium, he would also learn to play the [[tabla]].<ref name=":0" /> | ||
== Personal life == | == Personal life == | ||
He was married to Afsana Ali, with whom he has a daughter, Manjari Ghulam Ali. His sons Aamir Ghulam Ali | He was married to Afsana Ali, with whom he has a daughter, Manjari Ghulam Ali. His sons Aamir Ghulam Ali<ref>{{Cite web |date=22 January 2014 |title=Pakistani ghazal singer Ghulam Ali perform with his son Amir at a hotel in Bandra, Mumbai |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/entertainment/hindi/music/music-events/pakistani-ghazal-singer-ghulam-ali-perform-with-his-son-amir-at-a-hotel-in-bandra-mumbai/articleshow/13929341.cms |website=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref> and Nazar Ali Abbas are also musicians.<ref>{{Cite web |date=8-14 August 2003 |title=Wah Ustad! |url=http://archive.nepalitimes.com/news.php?id=3577 |website=[[Nepali Times]] |quote=Now his son and disciple, Nazar Abbas Ali is following in his father's footsteps.}}</ref> | ||
==Career== | ==Career== | ||
=== Pakistan === | === Pakistan === | ||
A strong student academically, Ghulam Ali’s musical talent was soon recognized beyond his household. While practising on a terrace, he was noticed by a representative from [[Radio Pakistan]], leading to an invitation to perform. At the age of 14, he began singing for a children’s programme on Radio Pakistan and within six months advanced to performing at the highest level, marking the beginning of his professional musical career. | A strong student academically, Ghulam Ali’s musical talent was soon recognized beyond his household. While practising on a terrace, he was noticed by a representative from [[Radio Pakistan]], leading to an invitation to perform. At the age of 14, he began singing for a children’s programme on Radio Pakistan and within six months advanced to performing at the highest level, marking the beginning of his professional musical career.<ref name="easterneye2021"/> | ||
Along with singing [[ghazal]]s, Ghulam Ali composed music for his ghazals. His compositions are [[raga]]-based and sometimes include a scientific mixture of ragas. | Along with singing [[ghazal]]s, Ghulam Ali composed music for his ghazals. His compositions are [[raga]]-based and sometimes include a scientific mixture of ragas. <!-- A raga is a scientific, precise, subtle and aesthetic melodic form with its own peculiar ascending and descending movement consisting of either a full seven note octave, or a series of six or five notes (or a combination of any of these) in a rising or falling structure called the Arohana and Avarohana. --> He is known for blending gharana-gaaiaki into ghazal and this gives his singing the capability to touch people's hearts. He sings [[Punjabi language|Punjabi]] songs too. Many of his Punjabi songs have been popular and have been part of Punjab's own cultural diaspora. | ||
On being questioned about Pakistani pop groups, Ghulam Ali replied, "Frankly, I am really bewildered at their style of singing. How can you sing a song by running and jumping around the stage? The stage is meant for performing not for [[acrobatics]]." | On being questioned about Pakistani pop groups, Ghulam Ali replied, "Frankly, I am really bewildered at their style of singing. How can you sing a song by running and jumping around the stage? The stage is meant for performing not for [[acrobatics]]."<ref name=APNA/> | ||
=== India === | === India === | ||
Though from Pakistan, Ghulam Ali remains as popular in India as in Pakistan. He first came to India in 1980. | Though from Pakistan, Ghulam Ali remains as popular in India as in Pakistan. He first came to India in 1980.<ref name="easterneye2021"/> [[Asha Bhosle]] has done joint music albums with him, beginning with ''Meeraj-E-Ghazal'' in 1984.<ref name="easterneye2021"/> He was introduced to [[Bombay cinema]] with an Urdu film song ''[[Chupke Chupke Raat Din]]'' written by the poet [[Hasrat Mohani]] in [[B R Chopra]]'s film, ''[[Nikaah (film)|Nikaah]]'' (1982).<ref name="IMDb">{{IMDb name|1265094}}, Ghulam Ali Filmography on IMDb. Retrieved 16 July 2019</ref> Other popular ghazals include ''Hungama Hai Kyun Barpa'' and ''[[Awaargi]]''. He tends to select the ghazals of famous poets.[[File:Ghulam Ali.jpg|250px|right|thumb|Ghulam Ali in Hyderabad, 2007]]One of his memorable concerts was at the [[Taj Mahal]].<ref name="TOI">[http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/Cities/City_Supplements/Bombay_Times/Ghulam_Ali_sings_in_praise_of_the_Taj_/articleshow/2189319.cms Ghulam Ali sings in praise of the Taj] ''The Times of India'', published 10 July 2007. Retrieved 16 July 2019</ref> On being asked about the future of [[ghazal]] singers, he said he enjoyed popular [[ghazal]] singer [[Adithya Srinivasan]]'s ghazals, who performed the opening act at his concert in 2012 at [[Bangalore]].<ref name="Deccan">{{cite web|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/130721/entertainment-tvmusic/article/words-ghalib |title=Deccan Chronicle / Music : From the words of Ghalib ... |work=Deccan Chronicle |date=21 June 2013 |access-date=16 July 2019|url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203002513/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/130721/entertainment-tvmusic/article/words-ghalib |archive-date=3 December 2013 }}</ref> | ||
Recently, in February 2013, the maestro became the first person to receive the [[Bade Ghulam Ali Khan]] award. Commenting on this, he said," I am indebted to the Indian government for giving me this award. For me, it is the greatest award I have received because it is named after my guru." | Recently, in February 2013, the maestro became the first person to receive the [[Bade Ghulam Ali Khan]] award. Commenting on this, he said," I am indebted to the Indian government for giving me this award. For me, it is the greatest award I have received because it is named after my guru." | ||
He also received the first Swaralaya Global Legend Award (2016) at [[Trivandrum]], Kerala, India. | He also received the first Swaralaya Global Legend Award (2016) at [[Trivandrum]], Kerala, India.<ref>[http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/kozhikode/swaralaya-award-presented-to-ghulam-ali/article8110564.ece Ghulam Ali's award info on The Hindu newspaper] Published 15 January 2016. Retrieved 16 July 2019</ref> | ||
=== Nepal === | === Nepal === | ||
Ghulam Ali has also sung some [[Nepali language|Nepali]] ghazals like ''Kina Kina Timro Tasveer'', ''Gajalu Tee Thula Thula Aankha'', ''Lolaaeka Tee Thula'' and ''Ke Chha Ra Diun'' in [[Nepali language]] with [[Narayan Gopal]], a well known Nepali singer, and composer Deepak Jangam. Those songs were written by King [[Mahendra of Nepal]]. These songs were compiled in an album entitled ''[[Narayan Gopal]], Ghulam Ali Ra Ma'', and are popular among Nepali music lovers to this day. | Ghulam Ali has also sung some [[Nepali language|Nepali]] ghazals like ''Kina Kina Timro Tasveer'', ''Gajalu Tee Thula Thula Aankha'', ''Lolaaeka Tee Thula'' and ''Ke Chha Ra Diun'' in [[Nepali language]] with [[Narayan Gopal]], a well known Nepali singer, and composer Deepak Jangam. Those songs were written by King [[Mahendra of Nepal]]. These songs were compiled in an album entitled ''[[Narayan Gopal]], Ghulam Ali Ra Ma'', and are popular among Nepali music lovers to this day.<ref name="APNA" /> | ||
Furthermore, Ghulam Ali was the singer of choice for His late Majesty the king of Nepal Mahendra Birbikram Shah Dev. Ghulam Ali sang a number of popular songs written by King Mahendra. | Furthermore, Ghulam Ali was the singer of choice for His late Majesty the king of Nepal Mahendra Birbikram Shah Dev. Ghulam Ali sang a number of popular songs written by King Mahendra.<ref name="APNA" /> | ||
== Musical style == | == Musical style == | ||
Ghulam Ali is known for composing the majority (he estimates at up to 95%) of the ghazals he performs, stating that most of his repertoire consists of his own compositions, while remaining open to singing works by other composers if he finds them musically strong. Over time, he has increasingly performed self-composed material, which has become a defining feature of his musical output. | Ghulam Ali is known for composing the majority (he estimates at up to 95%) of the ghazals he performs, stating that most of his repertoire consists of his own compositions, while remaining open to singing works by other composers if he finds them musically strong. Over time, he has increasingly performed self-composed material, which has become a defining feature of his musical output.<ref name="easterneye2021"/> | ||
His ghazal singing is firmly grounded in the [[Hindustani classical music|Hindustani classical]] tradition, drawing extensively from classical raagas while adapting them to the lyrical and emotive structure of the ghazal. He has emphasized that ghazal singing requires rigorous training, particularly in precise pronunciation of Urdu poetry and accurate melodic execution, describing the form as technically demanding and time-intensive to master. | His ghazal singing is firmly grounded in the [[Hindustani classical music|Hindustani classical]] tradition, drawing extensively from classical raagas while adapting them to the lyrical and emotive structure of the ghazal. He has emphasized that ghazal singing requires rigorous training, particularly in precise pronunciation of Urdu poetry and accurate melodic execution, describing the form as technically demanding and time-intensive to master. | ||
| Line 64: | Line 64: | ||
=== Performances in India === | === Performances in India === | ||
In 2015, due to protest by [[Shiv Sena]] at [[Mumbai]], his concert was cancelled. | In 2015, due to protest by [[Shiv Sena]] at [[Mumbai]], his concert was cancelled.<ref>[https://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/09/world/asia/pakistan-singer-ghulam-ali-concert-canceled-india.html Pakistani Singer's Concerts in India Are Canceled After Shiv Sena Protests] ''The New York Times'', Published 8 October 2015. Retrieved 16 July 2019</ref> After this, he received invitations from Delhi Chief Minister [[Arvind Kejriwal]], West Bengal Chief Minister [[Mamata Banerjee]] and [[Uttar Pradesh]] Chief Minister [[Akhilesh Yadav]].<ref name="NDTV">{{Cite web |title=Ghulam Ali Performs in Lucknow, Meets Akhilesh Yadav |url=http://www.ndtv.com/india-news/ghulam-ali-performs-in-lucknow-meets-akhilesh-yadav-1230674 |access-date=16 July 2019 |website=NDTV.com}}</ref> After this cancellation, he performed in [[Lucknow]],<ref name="NDTV" /> New Delhi, [[Thiruvananthapuram]], and [[Kozhikode]], India.<ref name="ZeeNews">{{Cite web |title=Ghulam Ali doesn't want to be used for political mileage; won't perform in India |url=http://zeenews.india.com/entertainment/music/ghulam-ali-doesn%25E2%2580%2599t-want-to-be-used-for-political-mileage-won%25E2%2580%2599t-perform-in-india_1818138.html |access-date=16 July 2019 |work=Zee News}}</ref> | ||
In a news item reported in 2015, Ghulam Ali has said that he won't perform in India until situation is right for music. He, however, assured that he will visit India when ‘the atmosphere is right.’ He said that he does not want to be used for political mileage. | In a news item reported in 2015, Ghulam Ali has said that he won't perform in India until situation is right for music. He, however, assured that he will visit India when ‘the atmosphere is right.’ He said that he does not want to be used for political mileage.<ref name="ZeeNews" /> | ||
==Notable ghazals/songs== | ==Notable ghazals/songs== | ||
| Line 146: | Line 146: | ||
|— | |— | ||
|c. 1984 | |c. 1984 | ||
|Folk & | |Folk & Ghazals | ||
|Non-film | |Non-film | ||
|Folk-based | |Folk-based | ||
| Line 463: | Line 463: | ||
==Discography== | ==Discography== | ||
* ''Tere Shehar Mein'' – 1996 | * ''Tere Shehar Mein'' – 1996<ref name=APNA/> | ||
* ''Lamha Lamha'' – 1997 | * ''Lamha Lamha'' – 1997 | ||
* ''Mahtab'' – 1997 | * ''Mahtab'' – 1997 | ||
| Line 471: | Line 471: | ||
* ''Passions'' – 2000 | * ''Passions'' – 2000 | ||
* ''Sajda'' – 2001 | * ''Sajda'' – 2001 | ||
* ''Visaal'' – 2004 | * ''Visaal'' – 2004<ref name="Technofundo">[http://www.technofundo.com/fun/music/ga/index.html To Ghulam Ali With Love] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303235101/http://www.technofundo.com/fun/music/ga/index.html|date=3 March 2016}} Technofundo.com website, Published 19 September 2007. Retrieved 16 July 2019</ref> | ||
* ''Aabshaar'' – 2006 | * ''Aabshaar'' – 2006 | ||
* ''Parchhaiyan'' – 2006 | * ''Parchhaiyan'' – 2006 | ||
* ''Husn-E-Ghazal'' – 2007 | * ''Husn-E-Ghazal'' – 2007 | ||
* ''The Enchanter'' – 2010 | * ''The Enchanter'' – 2010 | ||
* ''Anjuman Behtareen Ghazalein'' | * ''Anjuman Behtareen Ghazalein''<ref name=APNA/> | ||
* ''At His Very Best'' Ghulam Ali | * ''At His Very Best'' Ghulam Ali | ||
* ''Aawargee'' | * ''Aawargee'' | ||
* ''Dillagee'' | * ''Dillagee'' | ||
* ''Ghazalain – Live at Islamabad'' | * ''Ghazalain – Live at Islamabad''<ref name=APNA/> | ||
* ''Ghazals'' | * ''Ghazals'' | ||
* ''Great Ghazals'' | * ''Great Ghazals'' | ||
* ''Geet Aur Ghazals'' | * ''Geet Aur Ghazals'' | ||
* ''Hungama Live in Concert Vol.1'' | * ''Hungama Live in Concert Vol.1''<ref name=APNA/> | ||
* ''Haseen Lamhe'' | * ''Haseen Lamhe'' | ||
* ''Khwahish'' | * ''Khwahish'' | ||
* ''Live in USA Vol 2 – Private Mehfil Series'' | * ''Live in USA Vol 2 – Private Mehfil Series'' | ||
* ''Live in USA Vol 1 – Private Mehfil Series'' | * ''Live in USA Vol 1 – Private Mehfil Series'' | ||
* ''Mast Nazren -Ecstatic Glances Live in London'', 1984 | * ''Mast Nazren -Ecstatic Glances Live in London'', 1984<ref name=APNA/> | ||
* ''Narayan Gopal, Ghulam Ali Ra Ma'' (Nepali Ghazals) | * ''Narayan Gopal, Ghulam Ali Ra Ma'' (Nepali Ghazals)<ref name=APNA/> | ||
* ''Once More'' | * ''Once More'' | ||
* ''Poems of Love'' | * ''Poems of Love'' | ||
| Line 521: | Line 521: | ||
* ''Best of Ghulam Ali'' | * ''Best of Ghulam Ali'' | ||
* ''Greatest Hits Of Ghulam Ali'' | * ''Greatest Hits Of Ghulam Ali'' | ||
* ''The Golden Moments Ghulam Ali'' (Vol.1) | * ''The Golden Moments Ghulam Ali'' (Vol.1)<ref name=APNA/> | ||
* ''A Live Concert'' | * ''A Live Concert'' | ||
* ''The Best of Ghulam Ali'' | * ''The Best of Ghulam Ali'' | ||
* ''Once More'' | * ''Once More''<ref name=APNA/> | ||
* ''Mehraab'' | * ''Mehraab'' | ||
* ''Ghulam Ali Live at India Gate – Swar Utsav 2001 – Songs of the Wandering Soul'' | * ''Ghulam Ali Live at India Gate – Swar Utsav 2001 – Songs of the Wandering Soul''<ref name=APNA/> | ||
* ''Ghalib – Ghazals – Ghulam Ali – Mehdi Hassan'' | * ''Ghalib – Ghazals – Ghulam Ali – Mehdi Hassan'' | ||
* ''The Latest, the best"\'' | * ''The Latest, the best"\'' | ||
* ''Meraj-E-Ghazal, Ghulam Ali & [[Asha Bhosle]]'' | * ''Meraj-E-Ghazal, Ghulam Ali & [[Asha Bhosle]]''<ref name=Technofundo/><ref name=APNA/> | ||
==Awards and recognition== | ==Awards and recognition== | ||
*[[Pride of Performance]] Award in 1979 by the [[President of Pakistan]] | *[[Pride of Performance]] Award in 1979 by the [[President of Pakistan]] | ||
*[[Sitara-i-Imtiaz]] Award (Star of distinction) in 2013 by the [[President of Pakistan]] | *[[Sitara-i-Imtiaz]] Award (Star of distinction) in 2013 by the [[President of Pakistan]]<ref>[http://www.dawn.com/news/742068/abida-parveen-aleem-dar-among-winners-posthumous-awards-for-manto-mehdi-Hassan Ghulam Ali's award info on Dawn (newspaper)] Published 14 August 2012. Retrieved 16 July 2019</ref> | ||
==References== | ==References== | ||
Latest revision as of 11:26, 22 March 2026
Ghulam Ali Khan غلام علی خان | |
|---|---|
 Ghulam Ali in Chennai | |
| Background information | |
| Born | 5 December 1940 Galotian Khurd, Daska, Punjab, British Raj (now in Sialkot, Pakistan) |
| Genres | |
| Instruments | |
| Years active | 1960– present |
| Labels | Radio Pakistan, PTV |
Ustad Ghulam Ali (Script error: The function "langx" does not exist.; born 5 December 1940) is a Pakistani ghazal singer of the Patiala Gharana. Ghulam Ali is considered one of the greatest ghazal singers of his era. He has also been a prominent playback singer in Bollywood. He is a disciple of Bade Ghulam Ali Khan. Ali was also trained by Bade Ghulam Ali's younger brothers, Barkat Ali Khan and Mubarak Ali Khan.
His style and variations in singing ghazals are unique, as he blends Hindustani classical music with ghazals, unlike any other ghazal singer. He is highly popular in Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, as well as among South Asian diaspora in the US, the UK and the Middle Eastern countries.[1] Many of his hit ghazals have been used in Bollywood movies. His famous ghazals are Chupke Chupke Raat Din, Kal Chaudhvin Ki Raat Thi, Hungama Hai Kyon Barpa, Chamakte Chand Ko, Kiya Hai Pyar Jise, May Nazar Se Pee Raha Hoon, Mastana Peeye, Ye Dil Ye Pagal Dil, Apni Dhun Mein Rehta Hoon a ghazal by Nasir Kazmi, Ham Ko Kiske Gham Ne Maara. His album Hasratein was nominated in the Best Ghazal Album category at the Star GIMA Awards 2014.
Early life[edit | edit source]
Ghulam Ali was born in 1941 in the Sialkot district of present-day Pakistan and was a child during the Partition of India, an event he recalls only faintly. He was introduced to music at an early age, coming from a musical family; his father was a musician, being a vocalist who could play the sarangi,[2] and recognized his talent when one of his teachers noticed him humming a song at school and encouraged him to sing. At the age of 8, Ghulam Ali began formal training under his father, who assigned him a raaga to practise intensively on the harmonium, laying the foundation for his musical discipline. Though his grandmother initially objected to the rigorous training, his father believed early childhood was essential for building a strong musical base. He was named after the classical vocalist Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, whom his father greatly admired, and later had the opportunity to train under the legendary musician. His father aspired for him to become a ghazal singer, and Ghulam Ali began practising seriously from the age of 9.[3][4]
Ghulam Ali encountered Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, for the first time, when he was in his early teens. Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan had toured Kabul, Afghanistan and, on the way back to India, Ghulam Ali's father requested the Ustad to take his son as a disciple. But Khan insisted that since he was hardly in town, regular training wouldn't be possible. But after repeated requests from Ghulam Ali's father, Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan asked the young Ghulam Ali to sing something. It wasn't easy to have the courage to sing before him. He mustered the courage to sing the rhumri Saiyyan Bolo Tanik Mose Rahiyo Na Jaye. After he finished, Ustad hugged him and made him his disciple.[1] Apart from the harmonium, he would also learn to play the tabla.[2]
Personal life[edit | edit source]
He was married to Afsana Ali, with whom he has a daughter, Manjari Ghulam Ali. His sons Aamir Ghulam Ali[5] and Nazar Ali Abbas are also musicians.[6]
Career[edit | edit source]
Pakistan[edit | edit source]
A strong student academically, Ghulam Ali’s musical talent was soon recognized beyond his household. While practising on a terrace, he was noticed by a representative from Radio Pakistan, leading to an invitation to perform. At the age of 14, he began singing for a children’s programme on Radio Pakistan and within six months advanced to performing at the highest level, marking the beginning of his professional musical career.[3]
Along with singing ghazals, Ghulam Ali composed music for his ghazals. His compositions are raga-based and sometimes include a scientific mixture of ragas. He is known for blending gharana-gaaiaki into ghazal and this gives his singing the capability to touch people's hearts. He sings Punjabi songs too. Many of his Punjabi songs have been popular and have been part of Punjab's own cultural diaspora.
On being questioned about Pakistani pop groups, Ghulam Ali replied, "Frankly, I am really bewildered at their style of singing. How can you sing a song by running and jumping around the stage? The stage is meant for performing not for acrobatics."[1]
India[edit | edit source]
Though from Pakistan, Ghulam Ali remains as popular in India as in Pakistan. He first came to India in 1980.[3] Asha Bhosle has done joint music albums with him, beginning with Meeraj-E-Ghazal in 1984.[3] He was introduced to Bombay cinema with an Urdu film song Chupke Chupke Raat Din written by the poet Hasrat Mohani in B R Chopra's film, Nikaah (1982).[7] Other popular ghazals include Hungama Hai Kyun Barpa and Awaargi. He tends to select the ghazals of famous poets.
One of his memorable concerts was at the Taj Mahal.[8] On being asked about the future of ghazal singers, he said he enjoyed popular ghazal singer Adithya Srinivasan's ghazals, who performed the opening act at his concert in 2012 at Bangalore.[9]
Recently, in February 2013, the maestro became the first person to receive the Bade Ghulam Ali Khan award. Commenting on this, he said," I am indebted to the Indian government for giving me this award. For me, it is the greatest award I have received because it is named after my guru." He also received the first Swaralaya Global Legend Award (2016) at Trivandrum, Kerala, India.[10]
Nepal[edit | edit source]
Ghulam Ali has also sung some Nepali ghazals like Kina Kina Timro Tasveer, Gajalu Tee Thula Thula Aankha, Lolaaeka Tee Thula and Ke Chha Ra Diun in Nepali language with Narayan Gopal, a well known Nepali singer, and composer Deepak Jangam. Those songs were written by King Mahendra of Nepal. These songs were compiled in an album entitled Narayan Gopal, Ghulam Ali Ra Ma, and are popular among Nepali music lovers to this day.[1]
Furthermore, Ghulam Ali was the singer of choice for His late Majesty the king of Nepal Mahendra Birbikram Shah Dev. Ghulam Ali sang a number of popular songs written by King Mahendra.[1]
Musical style[edit | edit source]
Ghulam Ali is known for composing the majority (he estimates at up to 95%) of the ghazals he performs, stating that most of his repertoire consists of his own compositions, while remaining open to singing works by other composers if he finds them musically strong. Over time, he has increasingly performed self-composed material, which has become a defining feature of his musical output.[3]
His ghazal singing is firmly grounded in the Hindustani classical tradition, drawing extensively from classical raagas while adapting them to the lyrical and emotive structure of the ghazal. He has emphasized that ghazal singing requires rigorous training, particularly in precise pronunciation of Urdu poetry and accurate melodic execution, describing the form as technically demanding and time-intensive to master.
Controversies[edit | edit source]
Performances in India[edit | edit source]
In 2015, due to protest by Shiv Sena at Mumbai, his concert was cancelled.[11] After this, he received invitations from Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav.[12] After this cancellation, he performed in Lucknow,[12] New Delhi, Thiruvananthapuram, and Kozhikode, India.[13]
In a news item reported in 2015, Ghulam Ali has said that he won't perform in India until situation is right for music. He, however, assured that he will visit India when ‘the atmosphere is right.’ He said that he does not want to be used for political mileage.[13]
Notable ghazals/songs[edit | edit source]
| Title | Poet / Lyricist | Raga | Year | Album / Collection | Film | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aah ko chahiye ik umr asar hone tak | Mirza Ghalib | — | c. 1975 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Ae husn-e-beparwah tujhe shola kahoon ya shabnam | Bashir Badr | — | c. 1980 | Ghazals Vol. 3 | Non-film | |
| Aa gayi yaad shaam dhalte hi | Munir Niazi | — | c. 1979 | Ghazals Vol. 2 | Non-film | |
| Apni dhun mein rehta hoon | Nasir Kazmi | — | c. 1976 | Ghazals Vol. 1 | Non-film | |
| Apni tasveer ko aankhon se | Shahzad Ahmad | — | c. 1977 | Ghazals Vol. 1 | Non-film | |
| Arz-e-gham se bhi faida to nahin | Raees Warsi | — | c. 1982 | Ghazals Vol. 4 | Non-film | |
| Awaargi | Mohsin Naqvi | Bhairavi (light) | 1988 | Awaargi | Non-film | Title ghazal |
| Baharon ko chaman yaad aa gaya | — | — | c. 1981 | Ghazals Vol. 3 | Non-film | |
| Barsan lagi sawan bundiya | Traditional | — | c. 1984 | Folk & Ghazals | Non-film | Folk-based |
| Bata do tum humein bedaad karna | Riaz Khairabadi | — | c. 1978 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Bechain bahut phirna | Munir Niazi | — | c. 1979 | Ghazals Vol. 2 | Non-film | |
| Chamakte chand ko toota hua taara bana dala | Anand Bakshi | — | 1982 | Nikaah (OST) | Nikaah | Film song |
| Chhup chhupa ke piyo | — | — | c. 1977 | Ghazals Vol. 1 | Non-film | |
| Chupke Chupke Raat Din | Hasrat Mohani | Kafi (light) | 1982 | Nikaah (OST) | Nikaah | Widely accepted |
| Dard-e-dil dard-e-aashna jaane | Bahadur Shah Zafar | — | c. 1976 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Dareeche be-sada koi nahin hai | Sabir Zafar | — | c. 1983 | Ghazals Vol. 4 | Non-film | |
| Dil dhadakne ka sabab yaad aaya | Nasir Kazmi | — | c. 1980 | Ghazals Vol. 3 | Non-film | |
| Dil mein ek lehar si uthi hai abhi | Nasir Kazmi | Pilu (light) | c. 1979 | Ghazals Vol. 2 | Non-film | |
| Fasle aise bhi honge | Adeem Hashmi | — | c. 1985 | Ghazals Vol. 5 | Non-film | |
| Gajalu ti thula thula aankha | King Mahendra (Nepal) | — | c. 1986 | Nepali Ghazals | Non-film | Nepali |
| Heer | Punjabi traditional | — | c. 1984 | Punjabi Classics | Non-film | |
| Hum tere shehar mein aaye hain | — | — | c. 1981 | Ghazals Vol. 3 | Non-film | |
| Humko kiske gham ne maara | Masroor Anwar | — | c. 1977 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Hungama Hai Kyun Barpa | Akbar Allahabadi | Darbari Kanada | c. 1978 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | Strong consensus |
| Itni muddat baad mile ho | Mohsin Naqvi | — | c. 1987 | Ghazals Vol. 5 | Non-film | |
| Kachchi deewar hoon thokar na lagana | — | — | c. 1982 | Ghazals Vol. 4 | Non-film | |
| Kal Chaudhvin Ki Raat Thi | Ibn-e-Insha | Yaman (light) | c. 1978 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Kehte hain mujhse ishq ka afsana chahiye | Qamar Jalalabadi | — | c. 1979 | Ghazals Vol. 2 | Non-film | |
| Khuli jo aankh | Farhat Shehzad | — | c. 1980 | Ghazals Vol. 3 | Non-film | |
| Khushboo jaise log mile | — | — | c. 1984 | Ghazals Vol. 4 | Non-film | |
| Kiya hai pyaar jise | Qateel Shifai | — | c. 1981 | Ghazals Vol. 3 | Non-film | |
| Koi ummeed bar nahin aati | Mirza Ghalib | — | c. 1976 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Main nazar se pee raha hoon | — | — | c. 1977 | Ghazals Vol. 1 | Non-film | |
| Mehfil mein baar baar | Agha Bismil | — | c. 1978 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Mere shauq da nai aitbaar tenu | Ghulam Mustafa Tabassum | — | c. 1983 | Punjabi Classics | Non-film | Punjabi |
| Niyat-e-shauq bhar na jaaye kahin | Nasir Kazmi | — | c. 1982 | Ghazals Vol. 4 | Non-film | |
| Ni chambe diye bandh kaliye | Punjabi traditional | — | c. 1984 | Punjabi Classics | Non-film | |
| Patta patta boota boota haal hamaara jaane hai | Mir Taqi Mir | Kafi (light) | c. 1976 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Phir kisi raahguzar par shayad | Ahmed Faraz | — | c. 1986 | Ghazals Vol. 5 | Non-film | |
| Phir saawan rut ki pawan chali | Nasir Kazmi | — | c. 1980 | Ghazals Vol. 3 | Non-film | |
| Roya karenge aap bhi | Momin Khan Momin | — | c. 1979 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Tamaam umr tera intezaar kiya | Hafeez Hoshiarpuri | — | c. 1981 | Ghazals Vol. 3 | Non-film | |
| Tumhare khat mein naya ik salaam kis ka tha | Daagh Dehlvi | — | c. 1977 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Woh kabhi mil jaayen to | Akhtar Sheerani | — | c. 1982 | Ghazals Vol. 4 | Non-film | |
| Woh jo hum mein tum mein qaraar tha | Momin Khan Momin | — | c. 1976 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film | |
| Yeh baatein jhooti baatein hain | Ibn-e-Insha | — | c. 1984 | Ghazals Vol. 4 | Non-film | |
| Yeh dil yeh paagal dil | Mohsin Naqvi | — | c. 1989 | Awaargi | Non-film | |
| Zehaal-e-miskin makun taghaful | Amir Khusro | — | c. 1980 | Classical Ghazals | Non-film |
Discography[edit | edit source]
- Tere Shehar Mein – 1996[1]
- Lamha Lamha – 1997
- Mahtab – 1997
- Madhosh – 1999
- Khushboo – 2000
- Rabba Yaar Milaade – 2000
- Passions – 2000
- Sajda – 2001
- Visaal – 2004[14]
- Aabshaar – 2006
- Parchhaiyan – 2006
- Husn-E-Ghazal – 2007
- The Enchanter – 2010
- Anjuman Behtareen Ghazalein[1]
- At His Very Best Ghulam Ali
- Aawargee
- Dillagee
- Ghazalain – Live at Islamabad[1]
- Ghazals
- Great Ghazals
- Geet Aur Ghazals
- Hungama Live in Concert Vol.1[1]
- Haseen Lamhe
- Khwahish
- Live in USA Vol 2 – Private Mehfil Series
- Live in USA Vol 1 – Private Mehfil Series
- Mast Nazren -Ecstatic Glances Live in London, 1984[1]
- Narayan Gopal, Ghulam Ali Ra Ma (Nepali Ghazals)[1]
- Once More
- Poems of Love
- Saadgi
- Suraag – In Concert
- Suno
- Soulful
- Saugaat
- The Golden Moments – Patta Patta Boota Boota
- The Finest Recordings of Ghulam Ali
- The Golden Collection
- With Love
- Kalaam-E-Mohabbat (Ghazals written by Sant Darshan Singh Ji)
- Chupke Chupke – Live in Concert, England
- Rang Tarang vol 1,2
- Janay Walay
- Heer
- Ghulam Ali – The Very Best
- Ghulam Ali – Mehfil – Collection From Live Concerts
- The Best of Ghulam Ali
- Awargi—Ghulam Ali – Vocal CDNF418/419 Live. Vol.3 & 4.
- Aitbaar
- Aadaab Ustad (Ghazals)
- Ghulam Ali Vol.1 and 2
- A Ghazal Treat – Ghulam Ali in Concert;;
- Ghulam Ali in Concert
- Awargi (Live) Vol 1 and 2
- Moods and Emotions
- Ek Ehsaas – A Confluence of the Finest Ghazal Voices
- Best of Ghulam Ali
- Greatest Hits Of Ghulam Ali
- The Golden Moments Ghulam Ali (Vol.1)[1]
- A Live Concert
- The Best of Ghulam Ali
- Once More[1]
- Mehraab
- Ghulam Ali Live at India Gate – Swar Utsav 2001 – Songs of the Wandering Soul[1]
- Ghalib – Ghazals – Ghulam Ali – Mehdi Hassan
- The Latest, the best"\
- Meraj-E-Ghazal, Ghulam Ali & Asha Bhosle[14][1]
Awards and recognition[edit | edit source]
- Pride of Performance Award in 1979 by the President of Pakistan
- Sitara-i-Imtiaz Award (Star of distinction) in 2013 by the President of Pakistan[15]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 Amjad Parvez (8 April 2014). "Legendary singer Ghulam Ali". Academy of the Punjab in North America (APNA) website. Retrieved 16 July 2019.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Parvez, Amjad. "Legendary singer Ghulam Ali – Part I, II, III". Academy of the Punjab in North America. Archived from the original on 26 December 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 Mehta, Anjali (7 December 2021). "Ghazal great Ghulam Ali in his own words". Eastern Eye. Archived from the original on 26 December 2025.
- ↑ "When Rafi woke up Ustad Ghulam Ali". Rediff. 2 January 2007. Archived from the original on 26 December 2025.
- ↑ "Pakistani ghazal singer Ghulam Ali perform with his son Amir at a hotel in Bandra, Mumbai". Hindustan Times. 22 January 2014.
- ↑ "Wah Ustad!". Nepali Times. 8–14 August 2003.
Now his son and disciple, Nazar Abbas Ali is following in his father's footsteps.
- ↑ Ghulam Ali on IMDb, Ghulam Ali Filmography on IMDb. Retrieved 16 July 2019
- ↑ Ghulam Ali sings in praise of the Taj The Times of India, published 10 July 2007. Retrieved 16 July 2019
- ↑ "Deccan Chronicle / Music : From the words of Ghalib ..." Deccan Chronicle. 21 June 2013. Archived from the original on 3 December 2013. Retrieved 16 July 2019.
- ↑ Ghulam Ali's award info on The Hindu newspaper Published 15 January 2016. Retrieved 16 July 2019
- ↑ Pakistani Singer's Concerts in India Are Canceled After Shiv Sena Protests The New York Times, Published 8 October 2015. Retrieved 16 July 2019
- ↑ 12.0 12.1 "Ghulam Ali Performs in Lucknow, Meets Akhilesh Yadav". NDTV.com. Retrieved 16 July 2019.
- ↑ 13.0 13.1 "Ghulam Ali doesn't want to be used for political mileage; won't perform in India". Zee News. Retrieved 16 July 2019.
- ↑ 14.0 14.1 To Ghulam Ali With Love Archived 3 March 2016 at the Wayback Machine Technofundo.com website, Published 19 September 2007. Retrieved 16 July 2019
- ↑ Ghulam Ali's award info on Dawn (newspaper) Published 14 August 2012. Retrieved 16 July 2019