Renowned Pakistani music maestro Hamid Ali Khan recently shared a memorable experience from his childhood on a podcast. He recalled his visit to India, where he performed alongside Asad Amanat Ali, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Khan remembered being just a kid when he took the stage in India, sharing the spotlight with Bollywood legends Dilip Kumar and Manoj Kumar. Initially, the crowd was skeptical about two young Pakistani performers, but as they began singing classic songs, the audience was mesmerized.
The performance earned them great admiration, with Manoj Kumar being particularly impressed. Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi even referred to them as “Ram Lakhan” (a reference to the famous Indian mythological brothers) due to their exceptional talent.
Hamid Ali Khan also revealed that Indian politician and later Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee was so impressed that he offered him a chance to move to India, but Khan declined, stating his love for his country. He emphasized that he could never consider leaving Pakistan, despite the tempting offer.
This heartwarming anecdote showcases the power of music to bridge cultural divides and earn appreciation across borders. Hamid Ali Khan’s talent and patriotism have made him a beloved figure in Pakistan and beyond.
