Karachi (Web Desk): Today marks the 72nd death anniversary of Ahmed Ghulam Ali Chagla, the composer of Pakistan's national anthem.
Born on May 31, 1902, in Karachi, Chagla’s musical journey began at a young age when he studied at Sindh Madrasatul Islam and honed his skills under the tutelage of renowned Karachi musician Maharaj Swami Das.
His academic pursuit of music continued at Trinity College of Music in London, where he studied musicology, refining his craft further.
Before the creation of Pakistan, Chagla worked as a musician in the Bombay-based film company Ajanta, where he made significant strides in his career.
Following the independence of Pakistan, Chagla was appointed to the committee responsible for composing the music of the country’s national anthem.
His composition was selected and approved on August 21, 1949, establishing his place in history as the creator of Pakistan's revered anthem.
Chagla passed away on this day in 1953, leaving behind a legacy of national pride and cultural contribution. He was laid to rest in Karachi.
In recognition of his exceptional musical talent and service to the nation, Ahmed Ghulam Ali Chagla was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal for Excellence in 1996, more than four decades after his death.
Chagla’s work continues to resonate with the nation, solidifying his place as a central figure in Pakistan's musical and cultural heritage.