A Ranking of 100 Best Urdu Ghazal Songs: Download MP3 – Updated October 2021
Ghazal is considered as one of the most authentic and popular genres of eastern music, which is basically love verses sung in classical or semi-classical style over traditional instruments [mainly harmonium and tabla]. Urdu Ghazal poems follows rule in which the couplets are written in odd number, with every second verse maintaining a rhyme.
100 Best Ghazals Ever. Clockwise from top: Jagjit Singh, Tina Sani, Mehdi Hassan, Naheed Akhar, Iqbal Bano, Farida Khanum, Attaullah, Lata, Fariha Pervaz, Rafi, Noor Jehan, Asha Bhosle, Abida Parveen, Nayyara Noor, Pankaj Udhaas and Ghulam Ali.
Speaking of etymology, word ‘Ghazal’ has several nuances, however mainly ‘conversation of love’ is considered the most agreed upon. Another meaning of word ghazal remains the woe of a doe-deer (gazelle) when she is hurt. Whereas classic Ghazal authors such as Mir Taqi Mir and Ghalib wrote ghazals to mainly about romanticism, other poets such as Dr. Allama Iqbal and Altaf Hussain Hali were of view that Ghazals genre should not be about love of women, but greater love such as love of God, faith and homeland.
Here is our updated compilation of the 100 Best Ghazals ever to download in MP3 format.
100. Tina Sani sings Faiz Ahmed Faizs Woh Buton Ne Daale Waswasay
Faiz Ahmed Faiz is considered the greatest poet of recent times. He carved a new genre called ‘socialist-romantic’ with his elegant poetry for the common people. His Ghazal below is part of Urdu textbook and loved by many generations.
99. Woh Firaaq Aur Woh Visaal Kahaan – Jagjit Singh Sings Mirza Ghalib
Ghazalis traditional Urdu Kalam that flourished under Muslim Culture of Indo-Pak. Hence, Jagjit Singh, being a Sardar Ji, was an considered an eccentric entry into the world of Ghazal. With his exceptional talent and immense hard work, Jagjit Singh raised the genre to unprecedented level across the world. He is still considered the undisputed King of Ghazal of our times and his concerts hugely missed by Ghazal fans across the world.
98. Wo Jo Hum Mein Tum Mein Qarar Tha – Begum Akhtar sings Kalam Momin Khan Momin
Momin Khan Momin, the greatest match to Ghalib in his era, whom Ghalib appreciated himself too. Sung by Begum Akhtar who has a soft but poignant voice. This is Momin Khan Momins greatest his compositions.
97. Mehdi Hasan sings Rafta Rafta Woh Meri
Mehdi Hassan’s remains the greatest male ghazal singer from Pakistan, who revolutionized ghazal like no other ghazal khawan. His renditions of Faiz Ahmed Faiz’s evergreen ghazals like Gulon Main Rang Bharay are loved and sung even today after many decades of their creation.
96. Tanya Wells sings Gulon Main Rand Bhare [Kalam Faiz Ahmed Faiz]
Tanya Wells of Seven Eyes Band remains an unusual entry, but fully deserved. As British singer, she spent much time in India to learn Indian Classical, Ghazal, Thumri and Sufi Music from the masters. Her rendition of Mehdi Hassan ghazals got viral on Social Media and with her excellent talafuz [pronunciation] and amazing vocal quality; it remains one of the best ghazals.
95. Pankaj Udhas sings Chitti Ayi Hai Watan Sai Chitti
Pankaj Udhas rose to fame with his exceptionally soft vocals, perfectly suited to the genre of ghazal signing. Chithi Ayee Hai remains his most well known tracks, which he performs in every live performance abroad.
94. Ghulam Ali sings Chupke Chupke Raat Aanson Bahaana Yaad Hai
Ghulam Ali remains one of the greatest masters of Ghazal from Pakistan. Hailing from the famed Qawwal Bachhon ka Gharana , he had produced more than 100 albums till date. Chupke Chupke is a beautiful and popular ghazal of ghulam Ali, which was requested in every concert of his.
93. Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi sings Idhar Zindagi Ka Janaaza Uthegaa
Attaullah Khan Esakhelvi is loved by the masses for his Punjabi folk and live songs, but with his few exceptionally well sung ghazals, he remains a deserved entry. Idhar Zindagi Ka Janaaza Uthegaa remains his most loved ghazal.
92. Suna Hai Log Use Aankh Bhar Ke Dekhte – By Ahmad Faraz
Suna Hai Log Use Aankh Bhar Ke Dekhte – By Ahmad Faraz, among the greatest of modern Urdu poets. Sung by Asif Mehdi Hassan.
91 . Nagri Nagri Phira Musafir Ghar Ka Rasta by Meeraji – Sung by Ghulam Ali
Nagri Nagri Phira Musafir Ghar Ka Rasta by Meeraji, one of the most talented of the modern poets.
90. Naheed Akhtar sings Shab e Gham Mujhse Milkar Aise Roy
Naheed Akhtar’s is considered one of the finest singers from 1980s, famed for her exception and energetic rendition of Sufi Ghulam Mustafa Tabassum’s Ghazal Yeh Rangini No Bahar, Allah Alla.
89. Iqbal Bano sings Daagh-e-Dil Humko Yaad Aane Lagay
Iqbal Bano’s voice remains unique and soulful, perfectly suited for the genre of love songs. Among many others, Daagh-e-Dil Humko Yaad Aane Lagay, Log Apne Diyay Jilane Lagay remains one of her best ghazals that remains exceptional in both lyrics and musical composition.
88. Jagjit Singh sings Koi Faryad Teray Dil Main
Koi Faryad Teray Dil Main is Jagjit Singh’s ghazal from the soundtrack of movie Tere Bin. It remains one of the later compositions ofJagjit, immensely beautiful in its tune and verses.
87. Nayyara Noor sings Hum Ke Thehre Ajnabi (Kalam Faiz Ahmed Faiz)
Nayyara Noor rose to fame with her exceptional rendition of Faiz Ahmed Faiz ghazals. She is considered one of the most eminent ghazal singers, as manifested by below songs
86. Iqbal Bano sings Mohabbat Karne Wale Kam Na Hoonge
Muhabbat Karne Wale Kum Na Honn Ge, Tere Mehfil Mein Lekin Hum Na Hon Ge remains the crown jewel, among many ghazals Iqbal Bano has sung, and an obvious entry in our list of best ghazals ever.
85. Jagjit Singh sings Koi Yeh Kaisey Bataye Ke Woh Tanha Kyon Hai
From the OST of the movie Arth and sung by Jagjit Singh, Koi Yeh Kaisey Bataye Ke Woh Tanha Kyon Hai remains one of the gloomiest and exceptional ghazals ever written and sung.
84. Mehdi Hassan and Noor Jehan sings Aapko Bhool Jaayen Ham
According to music critics there are 2 heavy weights from Pakistan whose vocal diversity remains unmatched today, from ghazals to geet to playback singing. Mallika Taraum Noor Jehan and Shahenshah-e-Ghazal Mehdi Hassan. Aapko Bhool Jaayen is a manifestation of two greatest singers ever in the world of south asian music.
83. Nayyara Noor sings Aye Ishq Humain Barbaad Na Kar
Nayyara Noor remain one of the most gifted singers who popularised Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Ghazal singing with her exceptional and soothing voice.
82. Abida Parveen Sings Kal Chaudhavin Ki Raat Thi [Kalam Ibne Insha]
Ibne Insha (real name: Sher Muhammad Khan ) gained fame as one of the greatest writer of safarnama of Urdu. At the same time, his ghazals ( Kal Chaudhavin Ki Raat Thi) and Sufiana Kalam (Insha Ji Utho Ab Kooch Karo) remain one of the best ever written, verses below that prove this:
Kooche Ko Teray Chorr Kar
Jogi Hi Ban Jaayain Magar
Jungle Terey, Parbat Terey
Basti Teri, Sehra Tera!
English Translation
I can leave my home in your love
And become a Jogi
But I realize all forests are yours, all mountains are yours
All cities are yours and even deserts are yous [i.e. I see everywhere].
81. Asha Bhosle Sings Khali Hath Sham Aai Hai
Among the greatest poets who penned lyrics for settings over decades, Gulzar’s name easily tops the list. Ijazat remains one of the greatest art movie classics, which was directed by Gulzar also. Mera Much Samaan and Khali Hath Shaam remains the most haunting ghazals, deeply poignant in typical Gulzar’s style.
80. Asha Bhosle Sings Mera Kuch Samaan
Mera Kuch Samaan is one of the most touching and haunting ghazals ever, immortalized by the soulful voice of Asha Bhosle. It became an instant hit as part of Gulzar sahib’s movie Ijaazat.
79. Ab Ke Hum Bichre – Mehdi Hassan Khan
Kissi Nazar ko Tera Intezar Aaj Bhi Hai, is one of the most beautiful ghazals sung by the legendary Ghazal Khanwan Ustad Mehdi Hassan Khan.
78. Woh Mujh Se Huwe Hum Kalam, Allah Allah – Farida Khanum
Farida Khanum remains one of the most elegant ghazal artists, famed for her amazing voice and elegant style. She remains the true diva and icon of ghazals along with Iqbal Bano.
77. Aae Kuchh Abr Kuchh Sharab Aae – By Faiz Ahmad Faiz
One of the most amazing of Faiz Sahib’s ghazals, immortalized by the voice of Mehdi Hassan Khan. Like Tina Sani who is associated with Faiz Sahib’s Kalam, Mehdi Hassan name is also linked with some of the best ghazals of Faiz Ahmed Faiz.
76. Aah Ko Chahiye Ik Umr Asar Honne Tak – by Mirza Ghalib
Ghalib at his best. An immortal kalam, which remains the pinnacle of romantic Urdu poetry. Sung beautifully by ghazal maestro Jagjit Singh.
75. Aahat Si Koi Aae To Lagta Hai Ki Tum Ho – Nisar Akhtar – Sung by Salamat Ali Khan
A beautiful ghazal that shows his mastery over simple but heart touching Urdu verses.
74. Aankhon Se Haya Tapke Hai Andaz To – by Momin Khan Momin
Momin Khan Momin remain one of the greatest of poets who while living at the same era of Ghalib, held his ground and was celebrated by Ghalib himself.
73. Aap Jin Ke Qarib Hote Hain – by Nooh Narvi – Sung by Adiba Akhtar
A ghazal that is simple in verse, but deeper in meaning. Noor Narvi was a disciple of Daagh Dehlvi and adopted his style of verse as manifested by his collections Safeena-i-Nuh, Toofan-e-Nuh, and Aijaz-e-Nuh.
72. Aap Ki Yaad Aati Rahi Oraat Bhar – by Makhdoom Mohiuddin – Sung by Ahmed Jahanzeb
A beautiful ghazal which also inspired Faiz Ahmed Faiz to write a ghazal with the same first sheyr [aap ki yaad aati rahee raat bhar, chashm-e-nam muskurati rahi raat bhar]
71. Ab To Ghabra Ke Ye Kahte Hain – by Sheikh Ibrahim Zauq – Sung by Tina Sani
Sheikh Ibrahim Zauq remain one of the influential Urdu poets of classical era who at the age of merely 19 was appointed poet laureate of the Mughal Court in Delhi.
70. Ae Jazba-e-Dil Gar Main Chahun Har Cheez Muqabil – by Behzad Lakhnavi
One of the classics that were immortalised by voice of Nayyara Noor. Behzad Lakhnavi hailed from the city of culture, Lucknow. He worked for All India Radio and after partition migration to Pakistan. He is known for several poetry collection including Naghma-o-Noor, Kaif-o-Suroor, Mauj-e-Tahoor, Chiraagh-e-Toor, and Wajd-o-Haal.
69. Ae Mohabbat Tere Anjam Pe Rona Aaya by Shakeel Badayuni
A sad and poignant Urdu ghazal by Shakeel Badayuni, an immensely talented poet who works remain evergreen in form of his Bollywood lyrics including the famous movie Chaudhvin Ka Chand.
68. Mere Humnafas Mere Humnawa By Shakeel Badayuni – Sung by Begum Akhtar
Mere Humnafas Mere Humnawa is a one of the most beautiful and sorrowful ghazals by Shakeel Badayuni. Below verse cannot be praised enough. It remains Begum Akhtar’s most loved Ghazals, later also sung by Farida Khanum and recently by Ali Sethi.
مرا عزم اتنا بلند ہے کہ پرائے شعلوں کا ڈر نہیں
مجھے خوف آتشِ گُل سے ہے کہیں یہ چمن کو جلا نہ دے
67. Asar Usko Zara Nahin Hota – By Momin Khan Momin – Sung by Nayyara Noor
Momin Khan Momin was a contemporary of Ghalib, who was himself a huge fan of him. Momin’s poems remain simple and Asar Usko Zara Nahin Hota shows how a simple Urdu Sheyr can be deep and meaningful too. One of the greatest of the classic poets. Sung by Nayyara Noor
66. Ashaar Mere Yun To Zamane Ke Liye Hain Jaan – By Nisar Akhtar
Another gem of a ghazal by Nisar Akhtar, who remains one of the admired Urdu Ghazal Khawaaan of post-classic era of Urdu and Rekhta.
65. Baat Karni Mujhe Mushkil Kabhi Aisi To – By Bahadur Shah Zafar
The exiled Mughal emperor Bahadur Shah Zafar, whose poetry reflects his troubles. Sung beautifully by the King of Ghazals, Mehdi Hassan Khan.
64. Bas Ki Dushwar Hai Har Kaam Ka Aasaan Hona – By Mirza Ghalib
One of the most quoted poets ever in the history of literature. Bas Ki Dushwar Hai Har Kaam Ka Aasaan is a verse so elegant that it has become part of Urdu proverbs.
63. Bazicha-e-Atfaal Hai Duniya Mere Aage – By Mirza Ghalib
Bazicha-e-Atfaal Hai Duniya Mere Aage which shows a Sufiana sentiments, like many of his other ghazals.
62. Chalne Ka Hausla Nahin Rukna Muhaal Kar – By Parveen Shakir
The poetess, the enchantress, who inspired millions with her romantic verses. Despite her short life, she remains the most influential of female poets.
61. Dekh To Dil Ki Jaan Se Uthta Hai – By Mir Taqi Mir
When it comes to classic romantic verse, Mir and Ghalib hold the throne. Dekh to Dil ki Jaan se Utha hair is a testament of genius of Mir.
60. Der Lagi Aane Mein Tumko – By Andaleeb Shadani
Among new women ghazal poets, Andaleeb Shadani is revered as one of the best. Der Lago Aaney mein is one of most popular and loved works.
59. Dhundoge Agar Mulkon Mulkon – By Shad Azimabadi
Dhundoge agar mulkon mulkon by Shad Azimabadi is a beautiful ghazal that was became an instant hit when Abida Parveen sung it and immortalized it forever.
58. Dil Dhadakne Ka Sabab Yaad Aaya – By Nasir Kazmi – Sung by Noor Jehan
Dil Dhadakne Ka Sabab Yaad Aaya by Nasir Kazmi, immortalized by the unmatched voice of Mallika Taranum Noor Jehan.
57. Dil Hi To Hai Na Sang-o-Khisht Dard Se Bhar – By Mirza Ghalib
Dil Hi To Hai Na Sang-o-Khisht Dard Se Bhar by Mirza Ghalib, sung by Jagjit Singh remains a ghazal of sorrow and deprivation.
56. Dil Mein Ek Lahr Si Uthi Hai Abhi – By Nasir Kazmi
Dil mein ek lahr si uthi hai abhi – by Nasir Kazmi. Nasir Kazmi is often considered the greatest romantic poet after Faiz, and this ghazal proves this.
55. Dil-e-Nadan Tujhe Hua Kya Hai – Suraiya, Talat Mohamed
Dil-E-Nadan Tujhe Hua Kya Hai is a ghazal remains epic in its simplicity, easy enough for child to understand. At the same time, it is deep enough in emotions and beauty. Remains one of the best by Mirza Ghalib.
54. Diwaron Se Mil Kar Rona Achchha Lagta Hai By Qaisar-ul-Jafri- Sung by Pankaj Udhas
This is a beautiful ghazal that remains true to the genre of ghazal, which is about sadness, lost love and longing.
53. Donon Jahan Teri Mohabbat Mein Haar Ke By Faiz Ahmad Faiz
Donon jahan teri mohabbat mein haar ke by Faiz Ahmad Faiz is a beautiful ghazal. The master of romance, whose verses remain fresh as ever.
52. Duniya Ke Sitam Yaad Na Apni Hi Wafa Yaad By Jigar Moradabadi – Sung by Begum Akhtar
Duniya Ke Sitam Yaad Na Apni Hi Wafa Yaad by Jigar Moradabadi is of the best ghazals by Jigar Sahib, who remain the most talented ghazal poets from Gonda, India.
51. Dur Se Aae The Saqi Sun Ke – By Nazeer Akbarabadi – Sung by Muhammad Rafi
Dur Se Aae The Saqi Sun Ke – By Nazeer Akbarabadi, another talented shaiyar from India whose verse remain true to the Saqi o Paimana, the essence of Indian Ghazal genre.
50. Garmi-e-Hasrat-e-Nakaam Se Jal Jate Hain – By Qateel Shifai – Sung by Mehdi Hassan Khan
Garmi-e-Hasrat-e-Nakaam Se Jal Jate Hain – By Qateel Shifai is a ghazal of sorrow and separation from Qateel Sifai Sahib, who is certainly one the most talented shaiyar of modern times.
49. Gesu-e-Tabdar Ko Aur Bhi Tabdar Kar – by Allama Iqbal – Sung by Fariha Pervez
Allama remains in a league of its own in poetry. He was the messenger of Khudi, which he described his poetry. He was too great for verses of romanticm, but there are few ghazals attributed to him, which also show Ishq Haqiqi.
48. Gham-e-Ashiqi Se Kah Do Rah-E-Am Tak Na – By Shakeel Badayuni – Sung by Talal Mahmood
A heart touching ghazal from a very talented pretty from India, who was loved from his lyrics for Bollywood songs.
47. Ghazab Kiya Tere Wade Pe Etibar Kiya – By Dagh Dehlvi – Sung by Mehdi Hassan Khan
Ghazab kiya tere wade pe etibar kiya – by Dagh Dehlvi, the king of Delhi’s poetry scene and also the mentor of Allama Iqbal.
46. Go Zara Si Baat Par Barson Ke Yarane Gae – By Khatir Ghaznavi – Sung by Shafqat Amanat Ali Khan
Go Zara Si Baat Par Barson Ke Yarane Gae by Khatir Ghaznavi is an simple ghazal of sorrow and deprivation, sung extremely beautifully.
45. Gulon Mein Rang Bhare Baad-e-Nau-Bahaar Chaley – Sung by Mehdi Hassan Khan
Gulon Mein Rang Bhare Baad-E-Nau-Bahaar Chale is heart-touching and simple ghazal by the King of Romantic Verse, Faiz Ahmad Faiz.
44. Hai Justuju Ki Khoob Se Hai Khoob – By Altaf Hussain Haali – Sung by Sami-un-din Baber
Altaf Hussain Hali was a poet that was senior of Allama Iqbal and was renowned for Maddo Jazzar Islam. Besides political poetry he also wrote ghazals, but his opinion was always that ghazal should not be confined for women, but there should be higher love of God in it.
43. Har Ek Baat Pe Kahte Ho Tum Ki Tu Kya Hai – Mirza Ghalib
Har Ek Baat Pe Kahte Ho Tum Ki Tu Kya Hai by Mirza Ghalib is a beautiful complaint by Ghalib to his beloved that the person is too blunt and unsympathetic towards his feelings of love.
42. Hasti Apni Habab Ki Si Hai – by Mir Taqi Mir – Sung by Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Mir Taqi Mir is considered the greatest poet before Ghalib and nothing proves this more than this verse.
41. Hazaron Khwahishen Aisi Ki Har Khwahish – by Mirza Ghalib
Hazaron Khwahishen Aisi Ki Har Khwahish Pe Dam Nikle is perhaps Mirza Ghalib’s most loved ghazal, which is simple to understand something anyone can relate to. It has been performed by many artists in India and Pakistan, none matching the voice of Jagjit Singh.
40. Hum Hain Mata-e-Koocha-O-Bazar Ki – by Majrooh Sultanpuri – Sung by Rehana Sultan
Hum Hain Mata-E-Kucha-O-Bazar Ki – by Majrooh Sultanpuri was known more for his Bollywood song lyrics, but s wonderful ghazal writer too.
39. Hum Hi Mein Thi Na Koi Baat Yaad Na Tum Ko Aa Sake – by Hafeez Jalandhari – Sung by Jagjit Singh
Hum Hi Mein Thi Na Koi Baat Yaad Na is a soulful ghazal by Hafeez Jalandhari, the great poet who is mostly know for writing the national anthem of Pakistan.
38. Hum Ko Junun Kya Sikhlate Ho Hum by Majrooh Sultanpuri
Hum Ko Junun Kya Sikhlate Ho Hum by Majrooh Sultanpuri is a an amazing ghazal by one of the finest Ghazal Khawan from India. Majrooh was a great ghazal writer and lyricist of Indian Movies, and this poem is a testament to this.
37. Jab Se Tu Ne Mujhe Diwana Bana Rakkha Hai by Hakeem Nasir
Jab Se Tu Ne Mujhe Diwana Bana Rakkha Hai is a Sufiana Ghazal by Hakeem Nasir, which was immortalized by Abida Parveen voice.
36. Jise Ishq Ka Teer Kaari Lagey by Wali Mohammad – Sung by Iqbal Bano
Jise Ishq Ka Tir Kari Lage – by Wali Mohammad, another ghazal writer who focuses on simple verses, which ghazal genre is all about so every lover feels that it is expressing their feelings.
35. Justuju Jis Ki Thi Usko To Na Paya Humne [from Amrao Jaan movie] by Shahryar
Among the Bollywood Ghazal writer, Shahryar remains of the best as well as underrated. Justuju Jis Ki Thi Usko To Na Paya Humne is an amazing ghazal which remains evergreen after many decades.
34. Kab Mera Nasheman Ahl-e-Chaman Gulshan by Qamar Jalalvi – Sing by Attaullah Essa Khelvi
Qamar Jalalvi is a less known Urdu Poet who has penned some beautiful ghazals. Kab Mera Nasheman Ahl-e-Chaman Gulshan is an amazing ghazal, which is expressed in simple Urdu.
33. Kab Thahrega Dard Ai Dil Kab Raat Basar Hogi by Faiz Ahmad Faiz – Sung by Mallika Pukhraj
Faiz Ahmed Faiz was mainly a poet of Nazm, but when it comes to Ghazal also, he outclasses every poet of his era. Kab Thahrega Dard Ai Dil Kab Raat Basar Hogi is a poem of sadness and difficult times as he thinks of his beloved and that provides him some solace.
32. Kabhi Ae Haqiqat-e-Muntazar Nazar Aa by Allama Iqbal – Sung by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Kabhi Ae Haqiqat-e-Muntazar Nazar Aa by Allama Iqbal is a Sufism meets Ghazal writing. Allama always rightly complained that women are on the nerves of poets from Hind, and all their verse do not go beyond Inferior Love. Allama’s ghazals are few but they are about Love of God and Ishq-e-Haqiqi, which proves him the greatest Urdu poet ever, much higher than all Ghalib, Mir and Faiz combined.
31. Kabhi Kisi Ko Mukammal Jahan Nahin Milta – by Nida Fazli
Nida Fazli is one the greatest modern Urdu lyrics writer from India, who brought a touch of freshness https://www.thesufi.com/sufimusic/100-best-ghazals-ever-download-mp3/kabhi-kisi-ko-mukammal-jahan-nahin-milta-nida-fazli.htmlto Urdu ghazal writing. With almost two decades of writing lyrics for Bollywood Cinema, Nida is well respected in Bollywood circles.
30. Kaun Aaega Yahan Koi Na Aaya Hoga by Kaif Bhopali
Kaun Aaega Yahan Koi Na Aaya Hoga by Kaif Bhopali, a famous poet from Bhopal India, whose poems are simple but heart touching.
29. Khabar-e-Tahayyur-E-Ishq Sun Na Junun by Siraj Aurangabadi – Ustad Farid Ayaz and Ustad Abu Muhammad
Khabar-e-Tahayyur-e-Ishq Sun Na Junun by Siraj Aurangabadi is complex ghazal by a poet known for his Mystic Urdu nazms and ghazals.
28. Khayal-o-Khwab Hui Hain Mohabaten by Obaidullah Aleem – Sung by Runa Laila
Khayal-o-Khwab Hui Hain Mohabaten by Obaidullah Aleem is a picturesque ghazal, which brings sentiments of love and beauty to the reader.
27. Kisi Aur Gham Mein Itni Khalish-e-Nihan – by Mustafa Zaidi
Kisi Aur Gham Mein Itni Khalish-e-Nihan by Mustafa Zaidi is another beautiful ghazal that exemplifies what Urdu language is all about.
26. Sarakti Jae Hai Rukh Se Naqab Aahista – By Ameer Minai
Sarakti Jae Hai Rukh Se Naqab Aahista is a beautiful ghazal by the great poet from Lucknow, India, who was praishttps://www.thesufi.com/100-best-ghazal-ever-MP3/sarakti-jaye-hai-rukh-se-naqab-live-jagjit-singh-come-alive-in-a-live-concert-by-iftikhar-sultan.mp3ed by Ghalib and Daagh himself. Sarakti Jae Hai Rukh Se Naqab Aahista was sung to excellence by Jagjit Singh.
25. Sar Mein Sauda Bhi Nahin Dil Mein – by Firaq Gorakhpuri
Firaq Gorakhpuri was an Indian poet who was popular with youth. Sar Mein Sauda Bhi Nahin Dil Mein is one of his best ghazals. Sung by amazing Pakistani artists, late Mehnaz Begum.
24. Kuch To Hawa Bhi Sard Thi Kuch Tha Tera – Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan – By Parveen Shakir
Kuch To Hawa Bhi Sard Thi Kuch Tha Tera is another amazing verse of youthful love by Parveen Shakir the enchantress who lived short live, but left a deep impact of genre of Urdu ghazal.
23. Soz-e-Gham De Ke Mujhe Usne Ye Irshad – By Josh Malihabadi
Soz-E-Gham De Ke Mujhe Usne Ye Irshad by Josh Malihabadi, a talented Indian poet, is at his best in this ghazal.
22. Lai Hayaat Aae Qaza Le Chali Chale – By Sheikh Ibrahim Zauq
Lai Hayaat Aae Qaza Le Chali Chale By Sheikh Ibrahim Zauq is a poem by a exceptional and unsung poet, whose verses are compared to giants such as Ghalib and Mir.
21. Marne Ki Duaen Kyun Mangun – By Moin Ahsan Jazbiq
Marne Ki Duaen Kyun Mangun by Moin Ahsan Jazbiq is an amazing sad ghazal by a less known poet Moin Ahsan Jazbiq. Sung beautifully by Habib Wali Muhammad.
20. Tang Aa Chuke Hain Kashmakash-e-Zindagi – By Sahir Ludhianvi
Tang Aa Chuke Hain Kashmakash-e-Zindagi – By Sahir Ludhianvi, famed or his excellent lyrics for Bollywood movies.
19. Mil Hi Jaega Kabhi Dil Ko Yaqin Rahta By Ahmad Mushtaq
Mil Hi Jaega Kabhi Dil Ko Yaqin Rahta By Ahmad Mushtaq, a beautiful ghazal that is worth this list of 100 best ghazals ever.
18. Mohabbat Karne Wale Kam Na Honge – By Hafeez Hoshiarpuri
Mohabbat Karne Wale Kam Na Honge – By Hafeez Hoshiarpuri, a poem that was immortalized by legends such as Farida Khanum. Sung by the emperor of ghazals, Ustad Mehdi Hassan Khan.
17. Na Kisi Ki Aankh Ka Noor Hun – By Muztar Khairabadi
Na Kisi Ki Aankh Ka Nur Hun – By Muztar Khairabadi, an extremely sad ghazal that is expression on feeling valueless in this world and without any real purpose and love in life. A rare singing by Muhammad Rafi, the king of Bollywood playback singers.
16. Seenay Mein Jalan Aankhon Mein Toofan – By Shahryar
Seenay Mein Jalan Aankhon Mein Tufan is an excellent ghazal by Akhlaq Mohammad Khan ‘Shahryar’, who was most famed for penning down verses of Amro Jaan movie.
15. Naya Ek Rishta Paida Kyun Karen Hum – By Jaun Eliya
Naya Ek Rishta Paida Kyun Karen Hum – By Jaun Eliya, the poet of the common people, who had written some beautiful and underrated ghazals.
14. Patta Patta Buta Buta Haal Hamara Jaane Re – Mir Taqi Mir – Mehdi Hassan
Patta Patta Buta Buta Haal Hamara Jaane Re one of the most sung poems, penned by legendary poet who is considered the pioneer to Rekhta, Mir Taqi Mir. Here is version by Ustad Mehdi Hassan Khan.
13 . Rahiye Ab Aisi Jagah Chal Kar Jahan Koi – By Mirza Ghalib
Rahiye Ab Aisi Jagah Chal Kar Jahan Koi – By Mirza Ghalib, is a ghazal in which Ghalib desires from solitude and leaving troubles of life.
12. Rang Pairahan Ka Khushboo Zulf Lahrane – By Faiz Ahmad Faiz
Rang Pairahan Ka Khushboo Zulf Lahrane – By Faiz Ahmad Faiz, the greatest of Urdu poets of modern times. Download MP3 version in voice of Ghazal King, Ustad Mehdi Hassan Khan Sahib.
11. Roshan Jamal-E-Yar Se Hai Anjuman – By Hasrat Mohani
Raushan Jamal-E-Yar Se Hai Anjuman – By Hasrat Mohani – one the most revolutionary poets, who raised voice for the weak.
10. Tere Aane Ka Dhoka Sa Raha Hai – By Nasir Kazmi sung by Begum Abida Parveen
Tere Aane Ka Dhoka Sa Raha Hai – By Nasir Kazmi, considered the greatest poet after Faiz Ahmed Faiz.
9. Lagta Nahin Hai Dil Mera Ujre Diyaar Mein – By Bahadur Shah Zafar sung by Muhammad Rafi
Lagta Nahin Hai Dil Mera Ujre Diyaar Mein By Bahadur Shah Zafar in an epitiome of sadness and despaire, which is no surprise looking at the meaningless life of a last Mughal emperor, who was eventually exiled to Burma once British took over the Indian Subcontinent. It is a beautiful ghazal sung by legendary playback singer Muhammad Rafi, may Allah bless his soul.
8. Sham-e-Firaq Ab Na Puchh Aai Aur Aa Ke – By Faiz Ahmad
Sham-e-Firaq Ab Na Puchh Aai Aur Aa Ke – By Faiz Ahmad, the king of using words to depict a scene (manzar Kashi in Urdu). Sung by the Queen of Sufi Music, Begum Abida Parveen.
7. Sitaron Se Aage Jahaan Aur Bhi Hain – By Allama Iqbal
A beautiful ghazal which like all Allama Iqbal verses is about Ishq e Haqiqi and message to youth to aim higher and raise their Khudi. A very different ghazal, which shows Allama is in a league which not even heavyweight such as Ghalib and Mir can touch. Sung by Shahzad Roy, one of the talented young artists from Pakistan.
6. Koi Umeed Bar Nahin Aati, Koi Soorat Nazar Nahin Asti by Mirza Ghalib sung by Lata
Koi Umeed Bar Nahin Aati, Koi Soorat Nazar Nahin Asti by Mirza Ghalib is easily of one of the most simplest and most loved ghazals of Mirza Ghalib.
5. Ku Ba Ku Phail Gai Baat Shanasai Ki By Parveen Shakir
Ku Ba Ku Phail Gai Baat Shanasai Ki is an amazing ghazal by the most famous and talented female Ghazal Khawan of recent times, the amazing Parveen Shakir.
4. Frida Khanum sings Aaj Jaane Ki Zidd Na Karo
Along with Iqbal Bano, Farida Khanum is considered the two queens of ghazal from Pakistan. With her beautifully feminine voice, she has been loved and revered by many generations now. Aaj Jaaney Ki Zidd Na Karo remains a testament of her infinite talents.
3. Lata Mangeshkar sings Dikhayiye Diyay Kyon
From the soundtrack of art movie Bazar, Dikhayiye Diyay Kyon remains one of the most touching and deep ghazals ever penned and sung. Lata known as the greatest female playback singer of Bollywood and proves the diversity of her talents in an exceptionally well sung ghazal.
2. Mere Hum Nafas Mere Hum By Shakeel Badayuni sung by Begum Akhtar
Mere Hum Nafas Mere Hum by Shakeel Badayuni is an heart touching Urdu ghazal that speaks volumes about the talents of Shakeel. Download in voice of the forgotten legendary ghazal singer Begum Akhtar.
and at Number 1, we have joined winner
1. Mein Khayal Hoon Kissi Aur Ka, Mujhe Sochta Koi Aur Hai – Mehdi Hassan Khan
Mein Khayal Hoon Kissi Aur Ka, Mujhe Sochta Koi Aur Hai remains one of the admired tracks of Ustad Mehdi Hassan Khan. Heart-touching in its lyrics and backed with Mehdi Hassan Khan sahib’s immaculate voice, this is our numero uno among the top 100 ghazals.
1. Ranjish Hi Sahi – Iqbal Bano – Live in Concert Version
Ranjish Hi Sahi is a classic ghazal which remains a benchmark of what a ghazal should be in terms of poetry as well as singing. It is a marvellous ghazal penned by Ahmed Faraz, one of the great poets of Pakistan, and sung by Iqbal Bano, the queen of ghazal singing. Although Mehdi Hassan Khan Sahib version is amazing, Iqbal Bano voice for this just exceptional.
Another 25 excellent Ghazals that deserve a mention – Updated August 2023
Hoshwalon Ko Khabar Kya, penned by Nida Fazli, remains one of the top 3 Jagjit’s Singh ghazals. Melodic and simple, it remains a touchstone of Ghazal genre.
Lata Mangeshkar is the nightingale of India, considered the greatest female playback singer. Here is a ghazal that shows she is queen of ghazals too.
Tumko Dekha To Ye Khayaal Aaya remains no introduction to ghazal fans. It is one ghazal that has touched millions of hearts.
Aik Muddat Hui Tum is a signature Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan ghazal, with simple yet heart touching poetry and a simple melody. It manifests why Nusrat Sahib, despite being a Qawwal, was loved by all lovers of ghazal gayegee.
Tere Ishq Ki Intiha Chahta Hun by Allama Iqbal is one of the rare ghazals of Iqbal since he mainly wrote Nazm. Yet his ghazal proves that such genre of love can be about Ishq-e-Haqiqi.
Ranjish Hi Sahi by Ustad Mehdi Hasan Khan is one of the great tracks by the King Ghazal singer.
Tum Aae Ho Na Shab-e-Intizar Guzri Hai by Faiz Ahmad is one of our favourite ghazal which has been sung beautifully by Mallika Tarrunum Noor Jehan.
Dagh Dehlvi is famed as one of the greatest verse writers from city of Delhi. Allama Iqbal also shared his poems with Daagh in his youth, asking for improvement and advice.
Mir Taqi Mir was the pre-classical poet who inspired legends such as Ghalib. Ulti Ho Gain Sab Tadbiren remains a signature Mir poem, about woes of love.
Another amazing ghazal by Dagh Dehlvi, who remain one of the legends from famed city of Culture, Delhi. Sung by the one and only Ustad Mehdi Hassan Khan.
Parveen Shakir, who lived a short life, but left a huge impact in ghazal writing. Wo To Khush-Bu Hai Hawaon is one of her many ghazals that shows her zor-e-kalam.
Chalo Phir Se is an amazing ghazal by the greatest romantic poet of Urdu, Faiz Ahmed Faiz whose name does not need any praise at all.
Mir Taqi Mir remains the master of Reshta and the greatest inspiration for Ghalib. Yaro Mujhe Muaf Rakho shows her endless talents.
Haidar Ali Aatish was a hugely talents Sufiana poet who left two Divan with many amazing ghazals. Yeh Aarzu Thi Tujhe Gul Ke Rubaru has been performed by the Queen of Sufi music, Abida Parveen. Here is Yeh Arzoo Thi Tujhe sung amazingly by Ustad Amanat Ali Khan.
Mirza Ghalib was the greatest ghazal writer of his time and perhaps all times. Ye Na Thi Hamari Qismat Ki is a ghazal loved and sung every day today.
Kalam Faiz Ahmed Faiz – One of the most beautiful ghazal, which is simple yet soulful and poignant.
تم مرے پاس رہو
مرے قاتل، مرے دل دار مرے پاس رہو
Nayyara Noor is a rare ghazal enchantress, whose this ghazal remains her signature performance. It’s a ghazal that PTV viewers grew up listening to and still remains fresh.
Zehaal-E-Miskin Makun Taghaful By Hazrat Amir Khusro is written in both Persian and Brij Bhasha languages, which gave these verses a lot of amazing flavour.
Tera Saaya Jahan Bhi Ho Sajna is a ghazal sung by the amazing Nayyara Noor, which has been a firm favourite of PTV viewers for a long time.
Momin Khan Momin , the greatest ghazal of Momin Khan Momin, which was also the envy of Mirza Ghalib himself.
Kalam Faiz Ahmed Faiz , a poem that manifests that Faiz carved the genre of socialist-romantic and remains the master of it.
Faiz Ahmed Faiz was a poet of love and hope, despite living an extremely difficult life full of trials and confinements. His verse always select the most beautiful words of love and Aaiye Arz Guzaarein is such track.
Utho Ab Mati Se is a Marsiya in glory of a common soldier, penned by Kalam Faiz Ahmed. It shows the versatility of Faiz as a poet, who was never short of idea of Ishq, whether love of woman or the country.
Yeh Dhoop Kinara is a poem of Faiz Ahmed Faiz, which is picturesque and subtle in its flavour. Sung beautifully by Nayyara Noor, we can expect from the one of the greatest female voice that sung Faiz Kalam.
Dil Tarapne Laga is yet another less known ghazal by Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, which shows his genius of ghazal genre and ability to use some simple poetry to touch hearts of millions of youth.
