The soulful, melodic refrain of “Aawaz de kahan hai” lures and audibly resides in me like a musical treasure that’s never lost its lustre. Every time I hear those immortal words, I’m instantly transported by the distinct and immaculate reverberation of Malika-e-Tarannum Noor Jehan, the queen of melody herself.
For over six decades, Noor Jehan reigned supreme, first in undivided India and later in Pakistan after the Partition.
Her voice, sweet yet commanding, unrestrained yet precise, elevated the spirit and meaning of every lyric she touched. Her music continues to flow freely across borders, captivating hearts in India and Pakistan and wherever lovers of Hindustani film songs can be found.
Noor Jehan’s legacy proves that great music truly knows no boundaries.
Her songs live on in the hearts of fans, with “Aawaz de kahan hai,” a beautiful duet with the accomplished singer Surendra, standing as one of her signature gems.
Alongside this timeless melody are other jewels from the film Anmol Ghadi, including “Mere bachpan ke sathi mujhe bhool na jana, dekho dekho hase na zamana,” and “Jawan hai mohabbat, haseen hai zamana, lutaya hai dil ne khushi ka tarana.”
These “anmol” gems were meticulously crafted by legendary music director Naushad Ali, who ensured that each note and nuance matched the brilliance of Noor Jehan’s voice.
Noor Jehan (1926–2000) was not only immensely talented but also incredibly versatile. She began her musical journey at the tender age of six and later underwent rigorous training under various Ustads of Hindustani classical music.
Her passion for music was unmistakable, and the enthusiasm with which she sang was unmatched.
Even the great Asha Bhonsle, herself a gifted and iconic singer, once remarked, “The world will never see another singer like Noor Jehan. Just as there has been no second Mohammad Rafi or Kishore Kumar, there will never be another Noor Jehan.”
As the hauntingly beautiful notes of “Aawaz de kahan hai” linger in the air, one can’t help but picture Noor Jehan herself—an embodiment of the shared musical heritage of India and Pakistan.
Her songs remain a testament to her brilliance, a bridge across time and borders, uniting us all in the purest language of the heart: music.
—Promod Puri
Promod Puri.com 