Introduction
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan is regarded as one of the greatest vocalists in history and the undisputed king of Qawwali. His powerful voice, unmatched range, and spiritual depth transformed Sufi music and introduced Qawwali to global audiences. Often called the “Shahenshah of Qawwali,” Nusrat’s influence extends across India, Pakistan, the Middle East, Europe, and Hollywood.
This biography covers his early life, family background, musical training, rise to fame, legendary performances, collaborations, awards, controversies, and estimated net worth.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Biography / Wiki
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan |
| Urdu Name | نصرت فتح علی خان |
| Date of Birth | 13 October 1948 |
| Age at Death | 48 Years |
| Birthplace | Faisalabad (formerly Lyallpur), Pakistan |
| Nationality | Pakistani |
| Profession | Qawwal, Singer, Composer |
| Genres | Qawwali, Sufi, Ghazal, Classical, Fusion |
| Active Years | 1965–1997 |
| Known As | Shahenshah-e-Qawwali (King of Qawwali) |
Early Life
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was born into a renowned family of Qawwals in Faisalabad. His family had been performing Qawwali for over six centuries. Although Nusrat was initially discouraged from singing because his voice was extremely powerful and difficult to control, he eventually embraced his destiny as a musician.
His father, Fateh Ali Khan, was a respected Qawwal and classical singer who deeply influenced Nusrat’s musical foundation.
Family Background
Nusrat belonged to the Qawwal Bachchon Ka Gharana, a historic musical lineage.
Father: Ustad Fateh Ali Khan
Mother: Bade Ghulam Ali Khan family lineage
Brother: Farrukh Fateh Ali Khan (harmonium maestro)
Nephew: Rahat Fateh Ali Khan (famous Qawwal and singer)
His family environment nurtured classical music, Sufi poetry, and Qawwali traditions from a very young age.
Musical Training
Nusrat received rigorous classical training under:
Ustad Fateh Ali Khan (father)
Ustad Mubarik Ali Khan (uncle)
He mastered:
Raag-based improvisation
Sargam
Alaap
Taans
Breath control
Spiritual expression
Nusrat’s ability to hold notes for exceptionally long durations became one of his signature qualities.
Beginning of His Career
After his father’s death in 1964, the young Nusrat stepped into leadership of the family Qawwali group. His first major public performance came in 1965, where his voice shocked audiences due to its power and emotional impact.
Within a few years, he became Pakistan’s most promising Qawwali artist.
Rise to International Fame
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan gained global recognition during the 1980s and 1990s through international tours, recordings, and collaborations.
Major Milestones
Performed in over 40+ countries
Introduced Qawwali to Western audiences
Signed with Real World Records under Peter Gabriel
Gave iconic performances in London, Paris, New York, Toronto, Tokyo
Worked with Hollywood and Indian music directors
He is often credited for bringing Sufi music to the global mainstream.
Popular Qawwalis and Songs
Some of Nusrat’s most timeless works include:
Classical Qawwalis
Allah Hoo
Ali Maula Ali Maula
Tumhe Dillagi Bhool Jani Padegi
Yeh Jo Halka Halka Suroor Hai
Akhiyan Udeek Diyan
Sanson Ki Mala Pe
Ni Main Jana Jogi De Naal
Haq Ali Ali
Bollywood Hits
Kinna Sohna Tenu Rab Ne Banaya
Dulhe Ka Sehra (Dhadkan)
Naina Thag Lenge (Omkara sample origins)
Ishq Da Rutba
Hollywood / International Collaborations
Dead Man Walking OST
The Last Temptation of Christ (with Peter Gabriel)
Natural Born Killers soundtrack
His voice transcended borders and genres.
Awards and Achievements
Major Awards
Pride of Performance Award (Pakistan)
UNESCO Music Prize
Two Grammy Nominations
Numerous international honors
Records
Recorded 125+ albums
Performed 10+ hours non-stop in live sessions
Considered one of the greatest voices ever recorded
Nusrat’s global impact remains unmatched.
Personal Life
Nusrat married Naheed Nusrat, and they had one daughter. Despite his fame, he lived a simple and spiritual life, deeply connected to Sufi traditions.
Illness and Death
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan suffered from liver and kidney complications. He died on 16 August 1997 in London at the age of 48.
His death shocked the world, but his music continues to inspire millions.
Legacy
Nusrat’s influence continues through:
Modern Qawwali artists
Bollywood playback singers
Western musicians who sample his work
His nephew Rahat Fateh Ali Khan
Global spiritual music communities
He is remembered as a once-in-a-generation voice.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan Net Worth (At Time of Death)
Estimated Net Worth: $2 Million – $3 Million (Approx.)
Income Sources
Album sales
International concerts
Record label deals
Music royalties
Film soundtracks
If he were alive today, his adjusted value and royalties would place him far higher financially.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s birth date?
13 October 1948.
What is his nationality?
Pakistani.
What is Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan famous for?
Qawwali, Sufi music, Bollywood playback, global fusion works.
What is Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s net worth?
Estimated $2–3 million at the time of his death.
Who is related to him in music?
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan (nephew).
When did Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan die?
16 August 1997.
Disclaimer
This biography is based on historical records, verified interviews, media reports, and publicly available information. Net worth figures are approximate. This article is intended for informational purposes only.
