Qaumi Naghmay: the timeless anthems that have united Pakistan over decades

For decades, Qaumi Naghmay (national songs) have united the nation, stirred emotions, and strengthened the collective spirit. As the nation celebrates the 78th Independence Day today, it’s the perfect time to remember some of the most memorable national songs composed over decades.

Here’s a look at some national songs that may have been among your favourites.

'Millat Ka Pasbaan Hai Muhammad Ali Jinnah'

The song was penned by Mian Bashir Ahmed, a leading figure in the All India Muslim League, and was first read at the historic gathering in Lahore on 23 March 1940, when the Lahore Resolution was passed.

In 1947, Munawwar Sultana and Qadir Faridi sang it for Radio Pakistan Lahore as a tribute to Jinnah’s contributions to the nation.

 

'Chaand Roshan Chamakta Sitara Rahe'

 

Written by Shaukat Thanvi, with music composed by Qadir Farid and vocals by Dilshad Begum, the song holds special importance as it was personally approved by Quaid-e-Azam. It was broadcast on Radio Pakistan immediately after Jinnah’s address to the nation on 14 August 1947.

'Mera Paigham Pakistan'

The song was written by Jamiluddin Aali and composed by Niaz Ahmed. It was first played in 1954 via Radio Pakistan, Lahore and gained popularity when Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan sang it in 1997.

'Aye Watan Ke Sajeelay Jawano'

During the 1965 Indo-Pak war, patriotic songs in Pakistan played a vital role in lifting soldiers’ spirits on the front lines and uniting the nation. Noor Jehan alone recorded a dozen such songs, a contribution that earned her the title Malika-e-Tarranum (the Queen of Melody).

One of the songs was 'Aye Watan Ke Sajeelay Jawano'. With her unmatched voice, she breathed life into the song that became a powerful source of morale for the entire army.

'Aye Watan Pyare Watan Pak Watan'

It was sung by classical singer Ustad Amanat Ali Khan as a tribute to the motherland. 

'Hum Zinda Qaum Hain'

"Hum Zinda Qaum Hain" is one of the most loved national songs. It was first aired in 1987, sung by Tehseen Javed, Amjad Hussain, the Benjamin Sisters, and Fatima Jaffery.

With lyrics celebrating unity, faith, and national pride, it became a staple of Independence Day celebrations and remains a symbol of Pakistan’s resilience and collective spirit.

'Ye Watan Tumhara Hai'

“Ye Watan Tumhara Hai” was written by Kaleem Usmani and composed by Nisar Bazmi. It was sung by the ‘King of Ghazal’ Mehdi Hassan in 1979.

 'Jeevay Jeevay Pakistan'

In 1979, Shahnaz Begum released the famous “Jeevay Jeevay Pakistan” song.

'Sohni Dharti Allah Rakhe'

This song was written by Masroor Anwar and composed by Sohail Rana, and most famously sung by Shahnaz Begum in 1979.

'Wattan Ki Mitti'

In 1985, Nayyara Noor lent her voice to two memorable patriotic songs, “Watan Ki Mitti” and “Is Parcham Ke Saaye Talay Hum Aik Hain”.