KARACHI: Today marks the 30th death anniversary of legendary Pakistani playback singer Masood Rana, a voice that defined an era in South Asian cinema. Though he passed away on October 4, 1995, his timeless songs continue to echo in the hearts of millions.
Born on June 9, 1938, in Mirpur Khas, Sindh, Masood Rana left an indelible mark on Pakistan’s film industry with a career spanning over three decades. Known for his powerful vocals and emotional depth, he was revered as one of the most versatile playback singers in the country’s cinematic history.
“Masood Rana was not just a singer; he was the voice of an entire generation,” say music historians.
“He could sing in any mood romantic, tragic, patriotic and still sound effortless.”
Masood Rana began his artistic journey with Radio Pakistan before stepping into the film world. His breakthrough came with the film Banjaran, but it was the song "Tangay Wala Khair Mangda" that cemented his place among the greats. Over the course of his career, he recorded more than 700 film songs, both in Urdu and Punjabi, becoming one of the most sought-after voices in Pakistani cinema.
Due to his vocal resemblance and admiration for Indian playback icon Mohammed Rafi, Rana earned the affectionate nickname: “The Pakistani Rafi.”
His national song "Aye Watan Hum Hain Teri Shama Ke Parwanon Mein", from the film Aag Ka Darya, remains a powerful patriotic anthem, showcasing his unmatched vocal range.
Despite his fame, Masood Rana lived a modest life. Known for his spiritual, almost dervish-like nature, he never even built a personal home in Lahore. His simplicity stood in contrast to his larger-than-life voice.He also tried his hand at acting, appearing as a lead in two films Shahi Faqeer (Urdu) and Baharo Phool Barsao (Punjabi), and the latter featuring the hit song "Mere Dil Ki Hai Awaaz Ke Bichra Yaar Milega."
Masood Rana's contributions weren't limited to film songs. He also recorded some of Pakistan's most moving national songs and Na’ats, such as:"Millat Ka Pasban Hai Muhammad Ali Jinnah" A national favorite
"Karam Ki Ik Nazar Hum Par Khudara Ya Rasool Allah” A soulful tribute to the Prophet (PBUH)
These works added depth to his musical identity and ensured that his voice would remain a part of Pakistan’s spiritual and national consciousness.
