Bilqees Khanum

Bilqees Khanum (Urdu: بلقیس خانم; 25 December 1948 – 21 December 2022) was a celebrated Pakistani classical music singer, renowned for her soulful renditions of ghazals and geets. She is remembered for timeless performances like "Kuch Din To Baso Meri Ankhon Mein," "Anokha Laadla Khelan Ko Mangay Chand," and "Mat Samjho Hum Ne Bhula Diya."

Born in Garhi Shahu, Lahore, into a modest family, Khanum discovered her passion for music early in life. Despite financial challenges that limited her formal education, she trained under esteemed mentors, including her maternal grandfather Inayat Ali Khan, Ustad Muhammad Sharif, and Ustad Ashiq Ali Khan. Her musical journey began in 1964 with Radio Pakistan and later flourished with her contributions to PTV during its formative years.

Khanum's patriotic songs, particularly during the 1965 India-Pakistan War, left an indelible mark, as did her work as a playback singer in Lollywood, collaborating with legendary composers. Over a career spanning more than 45 years, she became an iconic figure in Pakistani classical and contemporary music.

In 1980, she married Ustad Rais Khan, a renowned sitar maestro of the Mewati Gharana, who later became a Pakistani citizen. The couple shared a deep love for music and had two sons, Farhan Rais Khan and Hazoor Hasnain Rais Khan, both accomplished sitar players. Khanum's legacy continues to inspire generations in the world of music.