Renowned pop star turned televangelist Junaid Jamshed is being warmly remembered on the seventh anniversary of his passing on Thursday.
Born in Karachi on September 3, 1964, Jamshed initially served as a civilian contractor and engineer for the Pakistan Air Force before transitioning to a successful career in music.
He rose to global prominence in the '90s as the lead singer of the pop band Vital Signs, delivering hits like "Dil Dil Pakistan," "Namumkin," and "Goray Rang ka Zamana." Despite the acclaim and international tours, Jamshed surprised the world in 2004 by stepping away from the music industry at the peak of his fame, choosing to recommit himself to his Islamic faith.
Speculations about his departure had circulated since the late '90s, but Jamshed continued his musical journey with solo albums, including notable tracks like "Na Tu Ayegi", "Tum Kehti Ho", "O Sanama" and "Aankhon Ko Aankhon Ne."
In a 2003 BBC World Service poll ranking the world's most famous songs, "Dil Dil Pakistan" secured the third spot among the top 10, a testament to the enduring impact of Jamshed's musical legacy.
Formally renouncing music and engineering in 2004, Jamshed devoted his life to Islam. In 2007, the government of Pakistan bestowed upon him the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz in recognition of his contributions.
Tragically, in 2016, Jamshed, along with his wife, lost their lives in a plane crash near Havelian while on a mission to spread the teachings of Islam in Chitral.
Junaid Jamshed's multifaceted journey, from music to preaching, left an indelible mark, and fans from various walks of life continue to cherish his memory.
