Shafqat Amanat Ali, a renowned Pakistani classical singer, is celebrated for his unique blend of traditional and contemporary music. His captivating voice and musical prowess have earned him widespread recognition both nationally and internationally.
Wiki/Biography
Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan was born on February 26, 1965, in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. As of 2023, he is 58 years old. His zodiac sign is Pisces. He graduated from Government College University, Lahore.
Physical Appearance
- Height (approx.): 5’7″
- Weight (approx.): 85 kg
- Body Measurement (approx.): Chest 41″, waist 33″, Biceps 13″
- Eye Colour: Dark Brown
- Hair Colour: Black
Family, Caste & Wife
He hails from the prestigious Patiala Gharana, representing the ninth generation of this illustrious lineage. His father, Ustad Amanat Ali Khan, was a highly acclaimed classical and Ghazal singer. His mother’s name is Almas Amanat Ali Khan. He had two elder brothers, Amjad Amanat Ali Khan and Asad Amanat Ali Khan, both accomplished singers. Shafqat Amanat Ali is married and has a son, Sadaat Shafqat Amanat Ali, who is also a singer.
Career
Shafqat began his career as a member of the band “Fuzön,” established in 2001. He served as the lead vocalist. Their debut album, “Saagar,” was released in 2002. He embarked on a solo career in 2006, debuting with the song “Rog Jog” for the TV series “Makan.” His first solo album, “Tabeer,” followed in 2008.
His Bollywood debut as a playback singer was with “Mitwa” in the film “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna” (2006). This song garnered immense popularity. He also received critical acclaim for “Yeh Hosla” from the film “Dor” (2006). He made his Pakistani film debut with “Ramchand Pakistani” in 2008, contributing three songs to the soundtrack.
The Chronicle Of The ”˜Cursed’ Song
A legendary ghazal, “Insha Ji Utho,” carries a tale of misfortune. It’s said that those who sing it face tragic consequences. Shafqat’s family has experienced several losses connected to this song, making them wary of its performance. However, Shafqat himself doesn’t believe in superstitions, but respects his family’s wishes.
Controversies
In 2016, Shafqat faced criticism for an alleged mistake during the Pakistani national anthem at a WT20 match. He clarified that technical issues, not a deliberate error, caused the incident. A separate controversy involved his departure from Fuzon, with accusations of financial mismanagement and solo performances in India being exchanged between him and the band members. Shafqat countered these claims, emphasizing his contributions to the band’s music and the timing of his Indian performances.
Awards & Honours
- President’s Award for the Pride of Performance (2008)
- The Musik Awards for Most Wanted Male (2008)
Favourite Things
This table summarizes Shafqat’s favorite things:
| Category | Preference |
|---|---|
| Band | Guns N’ Roses |
| Drama Series | Scorpion |
| Singers | Lata Mangeshkar, Ghulam Ali Khan, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Kishore Kumar, Michael Jackson, Abida Parveen, Noor Jehan, Asha Bhosle |
| Musicians | R. D. Burman, S. D. Burman, Beethoven, Lionel Richie, George Michael, Boy George, The Bangles |
| Poets | Bulleh Shah, Faiz Ahmed Faiz, Mirza Ghalib |
Facts
Shafqat enjoys photography in his free time. Despite his family’s classical background, he specializes in fusion music. His first salary, INR 3000 from a teaching job, was given to his grandfather due to family tradition. Ustad Bade Fateh Ali Khan, a prominent vocalist and his uncle, significantly influenced him, along with his father and Roshan Ara Begum. He received a roll of honor from the Music Society of Government College University, Lahore and has appeared on Coke Studio (Pakistan) and The Deewarist (India).
His nickname “Rockstar Ustaad” was given by Salim Merchant, who was surprised by Shafqat’s casual attire during a recording session, yet was impressed by his classical singing talent. Shafqat has faced rejection in the industry due to lacking industry connections. Shankar Mahadevan’s discovery of him during his Indian performances led to the opportunity to sing “Mitwa.” One of his popular songs with Fuzon is “Khamaaj- Mora Saiyyan Mo Se Bole Na.” In 2018, he sang “Vaishnav Jan To” for Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary, a gesture promoting unity between India and Pakistan.
