Pakistan, July 18 -- LAHORE - The 98th birth anniversary of the legendary ghazal singer Mehdi Hassan is being observed today, as fans in Pakistan and India pay tribute to his unforgettable musical legacy. Born on July 18, 1927, in Rajasthan, Mehdi Hassan ruled hearts with more than 25,000 songs and ghazals throughout his remarkable career.

Coming from a family of musicians, Mehdi Hassan received his early classical training from his father, Ustad Azeem Khan. His deep love for Urdu poetry helped him compose soulful ghazals penned by literary icons like Faiz Ahmad Faiz and Ahmad Faraz. His work continues to inspire generations of singers and poets.

His career took a turning point in 1957 when he began singing Thumri on Radio Pakistan. Fro...