The music world commemorated the 85th birthday of ghazal legend Ustad Ghulam Ali on Friday, December 5, 2025.
Ghulam Ali, a renowned ghazal singer from Pakistan, belongs to the prestigious ‘Patiala Gharana’. He was born on 5th December 1940 in Kalekay Nagra, British India. Known for his soulful renditions, he began his musical journey with ‘Radio Pakistan, Lahore’, in 1960. Apart from singing, Ghulam Ali also composes music for his ghazals, often blending classical ‘ragas’ into his compositions.
While he is primarily celebrated for ghazals, Ghulam Ali has also sung ‘Punjabi songs’, many of which have gained immense popularity and become a part of Punjab’s rich cultural heritage. His fame transcends borders, as he enjoys equal admiration in both Pakistan and India.
He has collaborated with legendary Indian singers, including ‘Asha Bhosle’ and made his Bollywood debut with the song ‘Chupke Chupke Raat Din’ in BR Chopra’s film ‘Nikaah’. Some of his other timeless ghazals include ‘Hungama Hai Kyon Barpa’ and ‘Awaargi’, often choosing works of celebrated poets.
One of his landmark performances took place at the ‘Taj Mahal’ and he has been honored with several prestigious awards, including the ‘Pride of Performance’, ‘Sitara-i-Imtiaz’, ‘Bade Ghulam Ali Khan Award’ and the ‘Swaralaya Global Legend Award’.a
Over decades, Ustad Ghulam Ali’s memorable ghazals such as ‘Ae Husn-e-Beparwah’, ‘Aah Ko Chahiye Ek Umr Asar Hone Tak’ and ‘Teri Yaad Yaad’ have left an indelible mark on lovers of classical music worldwide, solidifying his place as one of South Asia’s most iconic ghazal maestros. Ghulam Ali has also recorded ‘Nepali ghazals’ with iconic singer Narayan Gopal, including songs penned by King Mahendra of Nepal.