Wednesday marks the 25th death anniversary of legendary pop icon Nazia Hassan, whose voice and charisma transformed South Asian music. Fans in Pakistan and across the globe are remembering the singer whose melodies defined an era.
Born on April 3, 1965, Nazia’s rise to fame began with her breakout track Aap Jaisa Koi… in 1980, a song that catapulted her to international stardom and earned her the distinction of being the first Pakistani to win India’s prestigious Filmfare Award at just 15. Her debut album Disco Deewane (1981) became the best-selling Asian pop record of its time, reaching audiences in 14 countries and inspiring a generation of youth.
A familiar face on PTV’s Sung Sung, Nazia’s music and style became synonymous with the late 80s pop wave in Pakistan. Over her career, she collected numerous accolades, including the country’s highest civilian honor, the Pride of Performance.
Her untimely death from lung cancer on August 13, 2000—just a day before Independence Day—left the nation in mourning. For many, it was not just the loss of a beloved singer, but the end of a cultural dream. Her songs, however, continue to live on, carrying the same youthful energy and hope that made her a timeless icon.
