Lahore (Web Desk): The 21st death anniversary of legendary ghazal vocalist Parvez Mehdi is being commemorated today (Saturday), as music lovers remember the celebrated singer and his lasting contribution to South Asian music.
Parvez Mehdi was born in Lahore in 1947 into a family with a deep connection to music. His birth name was Pervez Akhtar.
His father, Bashir Hussain Rahi, introduced him to the fundamentals of music and provided his early musical education.
He later came under the tutelage of acclaimed singer Mehdi Hassan, who also gave him the stage name Parvez Mehdi. In addition to vocal training, he studied the sitar under Ahmed Qureshi.
His professional career took an important turn in 1968 when he received his first opportunity through Radio Pakistan.
The musical style of Mehdi Hassan greatly influenced both his compositions and vocal delivery.
He eventually established himself as a prominent voice after gaining popularity for the folk song “Gori-e-Mein Janaan Pardes”, which he performed alongside renowned folk singer Reshma.
For over three decades, Parvez Mehdi remained active in the music industry, recording and performing hundreds of songs in genres ranging from folk and geet to ghazal. His voice was heard through films, radio and television, as well as private musical gatherings.
Parvez Mehdi passed away after suffering cardiac arrest at the age of 58 on August 29, 2005 in Lahore.