THIS is with reference to the report ‘Friends, family remember singer Nayyara Noor’ (Aug 31). The celebrated legend is no more and that has saddened her ardent fans in Pakistan and around the world. Her innocent face, soulful rendition and mellifluous voice endeared her to people in the subcontinent and beyond.

She proved her worth and successfully carved her niche in the fiercely competitive world of singing in her prime, especially in the presence of renowned female singers, like Noor Jehan, Fareeda Khanam, Runa Laila, Naheed Akhtar, Mehnaz and others.

Though her songs in films earned her fame in the early days, the way she sang ghazals, especially those of Faiz Ahmed Faiz, immortalised her name. Her ethereal rendition of Aey jazba-i-dil gar mein chahoon leave the discerning listeners spellbound and that magic will never cease to exist. Further, her name remains associated with memorable national songs, such as Watan ki mitti gawah rehna and others.

The glitz and glamour of showbiz failed to dent her inbred simplicity and self-effacing personality. Her simplicity and innocence was indeed her charm and charisma, enhancing her grace and making her adorable to legions of her fans across the globe.

She commanded genuine respect that remains beyond words. She was rightfully accorded the honorific title of ‘Bulbul-i-Pakistan’, and in time landed prestigious awards and accolades as an acknowledgement of her rich contribution to music.

Her honeyed voice will surely live on.

Khadim Hussain Subhpoto
Hyderabad

Published in Dawn, September 6th, 2022