MEHNAZ Begum, a legendary singer, is no more. The news of her death has immensely saddened millions of her admirers in Pakistan and abroad. She passed away after a protracted illness in Bahrain on way to the US for treatment.

Her invaluable contribution in the field of music can hardly be overlooked or denied. She was one of the most powerful components of the glorious age of Pakistani music. In her illustrious career, she sang over 2,500 songs for radio, TV and films.

She was the only woman singer to have received the Nigar Award for seven years in a row. It speaks volumes for her artistic ability and her impressive command over singing. Although she was always at ease in giving her best in semi-classical and folk songs, she showed her immaculate and flawless mastery in rendering ghazals, thumri, dadra and kayal.

The songs like Mera pyar tere jewan ke sang rahe ga  and Mujhe dil se na bhulana have made her a household name, rendering her great fame. Emulating her celebrated mother Kajjan Begum, she proved her mettle in reciting ‘salaam, noha and marsiya’.

She was humble and down-to-earth, always giving due respect to her seniors. She will always be remembered for her mellifluous, passionate and captivating voice.

May the departed soul rest in peace, Aameen.

KHADIM SUBHPOTO Hyderabad