A Blessing to the Family
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was nothing less than God’s blessing for his family. He was born on October 13, 1948, in Faisalabad, Pakistan, after four sisters. His sisters were so overjoyed that they ran through the streets shouting and writing on walls that “God blessed them with a brother.” Little did they know that this day was a blessing not just for their family, but for the entire world.
Born with Rhythm
NFAK was a born musician. Even when he was just a baby, his fingers used to move frequently—and always in perfect rhythm. This amazed his family, but they could never have imagined that these hand gestures would one day resonate with his own music, entrancing audiences around the globe.
He continued this habit as he grew up. It sometimes frustrated his teachers and parents, but NFAK was always in his own musical heaven. Even in his 40s, he was often found moving to a gentle rhythm while asleep. Even while talking, his hands made rhythmic gestures.
A Shy Child with a “Weak” Voice
As a child, young Nusrat became a great fan of cinema. The amazing part was that after leaving the theater, he used to remember all the songs and music perfectly. Playing roles after watching a movie was a favorite pastime with his friends.
But Nusrat as a child was very shy and had a voice that was barely audible—the worst thing that could happen to a child of a Qawwal family. His father, Ustad Fateh Ali Khan, used to sadly admit: “He will never be able to sing, even if taught everything about music.”
He thought he would make his son a Doctor or Engineer—perhaps he wasn’t wrong in deciding the best possible life for his son.
The Hidden Passion
But Nusrat never gave up. He knew he loved music. Though he never sang openly, he often used to hide and listen to his father practice. When Fateh Ali Khan discovered this secret passion, he finally relented and started teaching his son Tabla and Harmonium—but still not singing.
Who knew the voice once considered “unmusical” would one day be known as “The Voice from Heaven”?
Continue reading: The Rise of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Qawwal →
