Pakistan is observing the 25th death anniversary of legendary classical singer Ustad Salamat Ali Khan on July 11, 2026, one of the most respected voices in Pakistani and Hindustani classical music.
Ustad Salamat Ali Khan is remembered for his remarkable contribution to classical music and for introducing the rich tradition of the “Sham Chaurasia Gharana” to audiences in Pakistan and around the world.
Ustad Salamat born on Dec. 12, 1932, in Hoshiarpur, British India, Salamat Ali Khan belonged to a family of musicians. He began learning music at a young age under the guidance of his father, Ustad Vilayat Ali Khan. He later trained with the legendary Ustad Bade Ghulam Ali Khan.
He started performing as a child with his elder brother, Nazakat Ali Khan. The duo became famous across the Indian subcontinent for their exceptional performances and mastery of Hindustani classical music.
After the Partition in 1947, his family moved to Lahore, where he continued building his musical career. In 1969, he gained international recognition after performing at the Edinburgh Festival.
Throughout his career, he also performed in countries including the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Nepal and Singapore.
In 1973, Salamat Ali Khan began performing as a solo artist after ending his musical partnership with his brother. He later trained his sons, Sharafat Ali Khan and Shafqat Ali Khan, who continue the family’s classical music tradition.
His students also included renowned Sufi singer Abida Parveen and several other respected musicians.
The Government of Pakistan honored Salamat Ali Khan with the Pride of Performance in 1977 and later awarded him with the “Sitara-e-Imtiaz” for his outstanding services to music.
Ustad Salamat Ali Khan died in Lahore on July 11, 2001. Even after 25 years, his music continues to inspire classical singers and music lovers across Pakistan and beyond.
