Lahore (Web Desk): The 71st death anniversary of the legendary composer and musician Master Ghulam Haider was observed on Saturday, a solemn occasion to remember the man whose musical genius left an indelible mark on both Indian and Pakistani cinema.
Born in 1908 in the town of Narowal, Ghulam Haider's journey into the world of music began in the bustling film industry of Bombay, where his compositions quickly captivated the hearts of millions.
His talent was not only that of a composer but also of a mentor—his students included some of the most iconic voices in South Asian music, such as Shamshad Begum, Noor Jehan, and Lata Mangeshkar, each of whom would go on to define an era of film music with their powerful vocals.
Haider’s creative genius gave rise to some of Bollywood’s most beloved soundtracks, including those for Yamla Jat, Khazanchi, Poonji, Shaheed, Humayun, and Majboor.
After the partition of 1947, he made the momentous decision to move to Lahore, where he became a central figure in the burgeoning Pakistani film industry.
His first venture in Pakistan, Shahida, heralded a new chapter in his illustrious career, followed by a series of notable compositions for films like Beqarar, Gulnar, Akeli, and Bheegi Palken.
In recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the world of music, Master Ghulam Haider was posthumously honoured with the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz and the Pride of Performance award by the Government of Pakistan, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest composers in the history of South Asian cinema.
Master Ghulam Haider passed away on November 9, 1953, after a long battle with cancer.
Though his life was tragically cut short, his legacy lives on through the timeless melodies he composed, continuing to inspire and resonate with music lovers across the world.