April 8, 2014 (tomorrow) marks the seventh death anniversary of classical singer Ustad Asad Amanat Ali Khan, who belonged to the renowned Patiala Gharana.
With heart-rending ghazals, such as Umraan Langyaan, Kal Chodwien Ki Raat and Ghar Wapas Jab Aao Ge, Asad has left behind an indelible legacy. After receiving musical training from his grandfather Ustad Akhtar Hussain Khan, father Ustad Amanat Ali Khan and uncle Ustad Fateh Ali Khan, Asad recorded his first song at the age of 10.
Asad’s younger brother Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan is a well-known name in the Pakistani music scene.
According to Roznama Express, Asad furthered his family tradition by pairing with his youngest uncle Ustad Hamid Ali Khan to begin his singing career. The two went on to perform on multiple platforms in Pakistan, India, the United States, Canada, Australia, Holland, New Zealand and Switzerland, among other countries.
Over a span of 32 years (1975 to 2007), the singing maestro sang a multitude of songs for television, film and radio.
For his distinguished contribution to singing, the then president, Pervez Musharraf presented him with the Pride of Performance award on March 23, 2007.
A mere two weeks later, he died of a heart attack in London at the young age of 51. Asad leaves behind wife Sharmeen Khan and two children, Sikander and Tanya Khan.
The Express Tribune pays homage to the invincible singer. “Insha’a Jee utho, abb cooch karo” (Get up O Insha! It’s time to leave the world). It was time for Asad to leave the world, but he will forever reside in our hearts.
Asad Amanat Ali performing ‘Inshaji Utho Ab kooch karo’ after his father’s death
Asad Amanat Ali sings ‘Umraan Langiyaan’
Ghar Wapis Jab Aaogay by Asad Amanat Ali
Published in The Express Tribune, April 8th, 2014.
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