ISLAMABAD (PEN) : It’s been 24 years since the passing of the legendary pop singer Nazia Hassan, and her fans, both in Pakistan and around the world, are marking her anniversary today.
Nazia Hassan’s remarkable journey began with the hit song “Aap Jaisa Koi…,” which catapulted her to international stardom. Born on April 3, 1965, she captured the hearts of millions through the popular Pakistani television show Sung Sung in the late ’80s.
Her death on August 13, just a day before Independence Day, brought profound sorrow to the nation.
*A Legacy of Excellence*
Nazia Hassan earned numerous accolades throughout her career, including Pakistan’s highest civil honor, the Pride of Performance. Her debut single “Aap Jaisa Koi…” in 1980 and her debut album Disco Deewane in 1981, which became the best-selling Asian pop album of its time, resonated across 14 countries. The album’s title track became an anthem for many and was even featured in Karan Johar’s 2012 film Student of The Year.
At just 15, Nazia Hassan became the first Pakistani to win an Indian Filmfare Award, marking a significant milestone in her career.
*A Dream Cut Short*
Nazia Hassan passed away from lung cancer at the age of 35 in London on August 13, 2000. Her untimely death left a void that continues to be felt. For those who remember the late ’80s in Pakistan, Nazia Hassan was a symbol of the era’s vibrant music scene. Her presence on PTV was a highlight for many households.
Her passing just before Independence Day added a layer of melancholy to the national celebrations, marking not just the loss of an icon but the end of a dream that had inspired so many.
