Fans of the legendary singer and actor, Inayat Hussain Bhatti, are marking the 25th anniversary of his passing on this Friday. Bhatti, a prominent figure in the realm of Punjabi language and literature, left an indelible mark on the world of music, cinema, and culture.
Born in 1928 in Gujrat, Bhatti’s journey to stardom began when he moved to Lahore for his education. Initially, his path led him to Radio Pakistan, where his melodious voice found resonance with audiences. His breakthrough came in 1949 with the Punjabi hit film “Pheray,” catapulting him into fame.
Bhatti’s versatility knew no bounds. A distinguished singer, actor, director, author, social leader, columnist, and religious scholar, he excelled in every role he undertook. With nearly 500 films to his credit and a discography of 2,500 songs in Urdu and Punjabi, his artistic prowess was unmatched.
In 1960, Bhatti expanded his artistic horizons by establishing a theater renowned for its stirring renditions of Sufi poetry by luminaries like Waris Shah, Bulleh Shah, and Mian Muhammad Baksh. However, his journey was not without challenges. In 1997, a debilitating stroke left him paralyzed, silencing his voice and confining him to a bed for the rest of his days.
Despite his physical limitations, Bhatti’s legacy continues to inspire generations, a testament to his resilience and enduring contributions to music, cinema, and culture. On May 31, 1999, he departed this world, leaving behind a rich tapestry of artistic brilliance that continues to captivate hearts to this day.
