Here’s a list of the top Ghazal singers of all time, based on their body of work, popularity and recognition.
Ghazals may not appeal to youngsters, but as you grow older, you start appreciating the lyrics and calming music of Ghazals. Those who have grown up during the era of the turntables will remember listening to the likes of Jagjit & Chitra Singh, Ghulam Ali and Mehdi Hassan.
Here we take a look at the Top Ghazal Singers of all time.
Jagjit Singh
One of the most loved Ghazal singers, who has sung several ghazals in Hindi movies as well. Jagjit singh is married to Chitra Singh, another great Indian Ghazal singer.
Ghulam Ali
Popular Ghazal singer (from Pakistan) who has fans all over the world. His ‘Chupke Chupke’ is a rage even today.
Mehdi Hassan
Another very popular Ghazal singer (from Pakistan) who has fans all over the world. More here.
Pankaj Udhas
Indian Ghazal singer, credited in the Indian music industry, along with other musicians like Jagjit Singh and Talat Aziz, for bringing the Ghazal style to the masses. He rose to fame for singing in the 1986 film Naam, in which his song “Chitthi Aayee Hai” became an instant hit. He’s also known for his ‘Sharaabi’ Ghazals.
Watch: ‘Sabko Maloom Hai Mein Sharabi Nahin’ by Pankaj Udhas
Talat Aziz
Popular ghazal singer from Hyderabad, India. His first major performance was in Hyderabad at a place called King Kothi. He sang before a crowd of over 5,000. He sang Kaise Sukoon Paoon and some ghazals by noted shaayars of Hyderabad.
Anup Jalota
Although known for singing Bhajans, Anup jalota is has sung several beautiful ghazals.
Chandan Dass
Chandan Dass is a popular Indian ghazal singer.
Hariharan
A versatile singer who has sung in various styles, including Ghazals.
Begum Akhtar
Begum Akhtar (real name – Akhtari Bai Faizabadi) was a well known Indian singer of Ghazal, Dadra, and Thumri genres of Hindustani classical music.
