The 15th Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) kicked off this year at the Beach Luxury Hotel in Karachi from February 16 to 18.
On the second day of the Karachi Literature Festival (KLF), people enjoyed a wonderful session titled “Noor Jehan, Suroor Jehan”. This special part of the event was all about honoring the amazing singer Madam Noor Jehan. Making it even more special, the discussion was led by none other than her grandson, the talented Ahmed Ali Butt, who is not just an actor but also a musician.
This session wasn’t like any regular get-together or TED talk; it was a sincere tribute to the iconic Malika-e-Tarannum Madam Noor Jehan. Ahmed Ali Butt, with his charm and knowledge, initiated the conversation, sharing interesting details about his grandmother’s life and the lasting impact she made. The room was filled with a mix of fond memories and deep respect for the legendary singer.
The panel discussion was led by some important figures like Nazia Ejaz Khan, Noor Jehan’s daughter, Sonya Jehan, Noor Jehan’s granddaughter, and Arshad Mahmud. Together, they added valuable perspectives to the discussion, making it a rich and memorable experience for everyone in the audience.
Insights From Nazia Ejaz Khan
Ahmed Ali Butt, the skilled moderator, first welcomed the distinguished artist Nazia Ejaz Khan onto the stage during the KLF session dedicated to Madam Noor Jehan. Nazia, shedding light on her mother’s life and work, shared a perspective that went beyond the conventional mother-daughter relationship. She revealed, “My understanding of her as a woman has evolved over time. Initially, I only saw her as my mother, but now, recognizing her as a single mother, I appreciate her struggles more.”
During the conversation, Nazia disclosed the profound connection her mother had with her music. Noor Jehan, a remarkable figure in the arts, expressed her true passion for her craft. Nazia recalled a poignant moment when discussions arose about making a documentary on her mother. Nazia said: “I asked her about it as to how she’d be portrayed because she was such a great mother, had done so many things, a larger-than-life figure. She thought for a while and replied, ‘Main ne gana gaya hai’ “. This response encapsulates the essence of Noor Jehan’s life, emphasizing the deep love she held for her talent and the art of music.
Arshad Mahmud’s Journey With Noor Jehan
As the KLF session continued, the stage welcomed the eminent music composer and actor, Arshad Mahmud. Reflecting on his initial encounter with Noor Jehan, Mahmud described it as nothing short of breathtaking. Recounting the memory, he shared, “I first met her at Faiz sahib’s place. It was a breathtaking experience that left a lasting impression on me.”
Arshad Mahmud delved into his professional relationship with the legendary singer. Having the privilege of signing five contracts with her during his time at EMI, Mahmud emphasized Noor Jehan’s professionalism, highlighting that she never interfered in his work. He also shed light on her unique ability to see through people, describing her as “mardam shanas,” someone who could gauge others from their initial interactions.
Arshad Mahmud concluded by sharing glimpses of Noor Jehan’s leisurely side. He fondly recalled moments spent at her favorite Chinese restaurant in Lahore, which she would insist on visiting after late-night recordings. Mahmud also shared a similar experience at Karachi’s Bundu Khan restaurant, emphasizing how these shared moments became cherished memories that continue to influence his choices.
Sonya Jehan & Her Admiration Towards Noor Jehan
Sonya Jehan, granddaughter of the legendary Noor Jehan, shared her admiration for her grandmother. Reflecting on her daily routine, Sonya fondly recalled, “I used to adore her when she came back home from work, especially when she would take off her makeup. I was her biggest fan in that house.” This simple act became a symbol of connection for Sonya, expressing her deep affection for the iconic singer.
Sonya painted a vivid picture of Noor Jehan’s life, commending her ability to seamlessly manage both the glamour of her recording sessions and the simplicity of her domestic life. Noor Jehan, after dazzling recordings, transformed into ‘Dado’ at home, engaging in everyday activities like cooking, having dinner, and heartfelt conversations. Sonya’s admiration extended beyond the stage, appreciating her grandmother’s versatility in effortlessly navigating different facets of life.
She beautifully highlighted the parallels between her own journey and Noor Jehan’s, emphasizing their shared commitment to hard work and dedication to their crafts. She revealed her grandmother’s multifaceted role as a beacon of unconditional love, describing Noor Jehan as a hopeless romantic who left an enduring message of love within the family. This familial connection was further deepened by their shared spirituality, underscoring its profound influence on their collective values and family dynamics.
Noor Jehan, the iconic Pakistani singer, was not merely a musical legend but a multifaceted artist who seamlessly balanced the grandeur of her stage presence with the simplicity of domestic life. Her unparalleled voice, coupled with her versatility and enduring commitment to her craft, has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of Pakistan.
