Govt to pay ‘unique’ tribute to Noor Jehan on her death anniversary

The caretaker government has decided to broadcast Noor Jahan's popular songs daily on state-run PTV until December 23, paying homage to the legendary singer ahead of her death anniversary.

Known for her exceptionally melodious voice, Noor Jehan, also known as 'Malika-e-Tarannum (Queen of Melody),' garnered immense love and admiration in India and Pakistan 23 years ago. 

Her enchanting magic continues to resonate as one tunes into her ghazals.

Caretaker Information and Broadcasting Minister Murtaza Solangi made this announcement on his ‘X’ account.

He added that from December 1 to December 23, every day at 11 pm, a song by Malika Tarnam Noor Jahan will be featured on the national Television.

Starting Friday, December 1, @ptv will air #MelodiesOfMadam #Noorjehan on her 23rd anniversary. We will dedicate one of her songs each day at 2300 hours (11 pm) till 23rd. There is more. Stay tuned. pic.twitter.com/eWeSvs4wMI

— Murtaza Solangi (@murtazasolangi) November 28, 2023

Originally working in British India, Malika-e-Tarannum Noor Jahan later became a prominent figure in Pakistani cinema.

She established herself as a leading actress through films like Dopatta (1952), Intezar (1956), and Koel (1959), amassing over 40 movies, with Mirza Ghalib (1961) being her final film. 

Transitioning to a successful career as a playback singer, her remarkable journey spanned six decades during which she recorded more than 10,000 songs in Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi, and Sindhi, making her one of South Asia's most influential singers.

During the 1965 war, Noor Jehan sang 12 war songs that were recorded and broadcast by Radio Pakistan. 

Recognising her contributions during the conflict, she was bestowed the title of Malika-e-Tarannum (the Queen of Melody) and affectionately referred to as Madam by her fans.

Born on September 21, 1925, in Kasur, Punjab, Noor Jehan hailed from a Muslim family with a rich musical tradition. 

Displaying her musical talents from a young age, she began singing at 5 and received early training in classical singing under the guidance of Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, a renowned Hindustani vocalist.

Following the Partition in 1947, Jehan made the decision to relocate to Pakistan and settled in Karachi.