It has been 25 years since Pakistan bid farewell to its beloved pop sensation, Nazia Hassan.
Known for her melodious voice, trailblazing style, and record-breaking hits, Nazia remains an unforgettable icon of South Asian music.
Born on April 3, 1965, in Karachi, Nazia Hassan’s journey into music began at the age of 10 as a child star. At just 15, she made history with her debut track Aap Jaisa Koi for the 1980 Bollywood film Qurbani.
The song became an international sensation, earning her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Playback Singer — a first for any Pakistani artist.
Redefining pop music in pakistan
Together with her brother, Zoheb Hassan, Nazia released chart-topping albums that transformed Pakistan’s pop scene. Their debut, Disco Deewane, smashed sales records across more than a dozen countries. Follow-up hits like Boom Boom, Young Tarang, and Hotline solidified her title as Pakistan’s “Queen of Pop.”
By the time she stepped away from the spotlight, Nazia had sold an estimated 6.5 million cassettes worldwide — a remarkable achievement for a South Asian artist of her era.
The legacy
Tragically, Nazia passed away on August 13, 2000, in London at the age of 35 after a battle with lung cancer. Her music, however, continues to resonate. From radio airplay to digital streaming platforms, her voice still inspires fans old and new.
Today, tributes are pouring in across Pakistan and beyond, as admirers remember a star who not only entertained millions but also paved the way for future generations of artists.
