UMRAO ZIA BEGUM: How many people are aware of this amazing and brilliant singer?

A singing- star by the name of Umrao Zia Begum was the talk of the town in those exciting times. In fact, she was renowned for her melodious voice as a film actress. Further, she earned the title of ‘Bulbul Hazaar Dastaan’ from the music buffs. Ghulam Haider composed music for Umrao Zia Begum and recorded songs and ghazals in her voice. Her name appeared on the gramophone records as well. Perhaps, Umrao Zia Begum’s greatest achievement was the recitation of one of the most popular Naat ” Mera Salam Leja Woh Jan Lenge Sab Kuch “, composed by Ghulam Haider. Ghulam Haider debuted as a music composer in a 1935 movie, ‘Swarg ki seerhi’, in which Umrao Zia Begum was also cast in a major role. ‘Swarg ki seerhi’ was released under the banner of National Modi Tone, Lahore, and directed by AR Kardar.

With the passage of time, Ghulam Haider and Umrao Zia Begum developed immense love and understanding for each other, which reached their peak during the movie shoot of ‘Swarg ki seerhi’. Ghulam Haider, who worked for Pancholi Art pictures at that time, soon married Umrao Zia Begum. After marrying Ghulam Haider, Umrao Zia Begum said farewell to show business. She was never seen again even in a public gathering. She was not only a great human but an affectionate mother who possessed enormous foresightedness as well. Nothing happens to anybody, that he is not fitted by nature to bear. Ghulam Haider’s demise happened to be a tremendous setback for his beloved wife, Umrao Zia Begum, who was much younger than her husband. However, she did not lose her heart. Instead, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to the upbringing of her children. She left no stone unturned to provide her children the best possible education available at the time. Consequently, all her children grew up and achieved name and fame in their respective fields. Most importantly, Umrao Zia Begum thanked God to see her relentless efforts come to fruition. Years later, Umrao Zia Begum breathed her last in the ‘Stork House,’ Bahawalpur, which was the official residence of her younger son, who was the General Officer Commanding in Bahawalpur in those days. She was laid to rest in the Military Graveyard, Cavalry Ground, Lahore. Ghulam Haider will stand as a musical icon as far as the eye can see.

I do not own the copyright to any of the records used in this video. These music records will be copyrighted by those who have actual rights over them. I express my thanks and gratitude to all the collectors of records and those who made them available to music lovers!

Links to some songs of Umrao Zia Begum
1.    • Urdu Ghazal - Kuchh Naik Kaam Karle - Umra...  
2.    • Himmat 1941: Yeh baat bataa saajan tum bin...  
3.    • Khazanchi 1941: Mohe bhaabhi laa do bhaiya...  
4.    • Non-film: Yeh raag papeeha gaata hai (Umra...  
5.    • Khazanchi 1941: Peene ke din aaye peeye ja...