Remembering Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan with five of his iconic qawwalis

When it comes to the rich musical history of Pakistan, we can't help but think of qawwalis. But qawwalis aren't just about the music — they need a soulful voice to tie everything together and no one had a voice quite like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. Fans are celebrating what would have been the king of qawwali's 73rd birthday today (October 13).

Most 90s kids grew up listening to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan being played in their houses and we’re sure many of our readers can relate to that as well.

He is one of if not the most celebrated South Asian musician of all time — performing at venues across the world and being crowned with an array of titles. His qawwalis have been reproduced time and again in Pakistan and across the border.

On his birthday, here are some iconic melodies that we still listen to and love today.

'Afreen Afreen'

This hit cannot be missed out on a day like this. While many have been going back and forth between the original and Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and Momina Mustehsan’s version of 'Afreen Afreen', no one can deny that this love-filled qawwali sung by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan just hits different.

'Yeh Jo Halka Halka Suroor'

This qawwali is about a loved one and its tune and lyrics are magical as ever, even after 30 years.

'Dillagi'

There are many versions of this song available online but nothing compares to the original.

'Mast Nazron Se'

'Mast Nazron Se' is about heartbreak and its soulful lyrics still resonate with us today, perhaps even more than they did before!

'Dam Mast Qalandar'

An all- time classic, 'Dam Mast Qalandar' is one of the most iconic of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's entire discography.

Though we, and many other fans, are celebrating and paying tribute to the late maestro today, we should note that he and his music are celebrated every single day. Millions of people around the world still listen to his qawwalis 24 years after his death and keep his memory alive every day.