Habib Wali Mohammad, a renowned singer of ghazals, was born on January 16, 1924, in the vibrant city of Rangoon, Burma. He was born into a Muslim family and spent his formative years surrounded by the rich cultural tapestry of his heritage. As a young man, he developed a deep appreciation for music and poetry, which would go on to shape his career in the decades to come.
Habib Wali Mohammad's journey to stardom began when he moved to India and pursued his bachelor's degree at Ismail Yusuf College in Mumbai. It was during his time in Mumbai that he honed his musical skills and discovered his passion for ghazals, a genre of poetry set to music that has its roots in Persian and Arabic traditions.
After completing his studies in India, Habib Wali Mohammad ventured to the United States to further his education, earning his MBA at Syracuse University in New York. It was in America that he found a platform to showcase his musical talents and introduce South Asian music to a global audience.
Habib Wali Mohammad's musical performances on Sri Lanka's Radio Ceylon station catapulted him to fame and cemented his status as a ghazal maestro. His soulful renditions of iconic poems such as "Na Kisi Ki Aankh Ka Noor Hoon," "Kab Mera Nasheman Ahelay Chaman," and "Aaj Jaane Ki Zid Na Karo" endeared him to audiences across the world.
One of his most memorable achievements was his rendition of the Pakistani national anthem, "Roshan-o-Rakhshan, Nayyar-o-Tabaan, Pakistan Rahay," which captured the spirit of his homeland and resonated with listeners far and wide.
Throughout his life, Habib Wali Mohammad cherished his family above all else. He was married to Rehana, with whom he shared a deep bond and raised four children – Rizwan, Nadeem, Anwar, and Ruxana. Both Rizwan and Nadeem followed in their father's musical footsteps, carving out successful careers as musicians in their own right.
Despite living in different parts of the world, Habib Wali Mohammad remained deeply connected to his roots in South Asia and continued to draw inspiration from the diverse cultures and traditions of the region. His musical journey was a testament to his unwavering dedication to preserving and celebrating the art form of ghazals.
Habib Wali Mohammad's impact on the world of music cannot be overstated. His velvety voice and heartfelt performances continue to resonate with audiences to this day, keeping the timeless tradition of ghazals alive for future generations to enjoy.
His legacy serves as a reminder of the power of music to transcend borders and bring people together in a shared appreciation for beauty and artistry. Habib Wali Mohammad will forever be remembered as a true maestro of ghazals and a beloved cultural icon.