27 Famous Urdu Songs
Urdu songs have a rich history and have contributed immensely to the South Asian music industry. From classic ghazals to contemporary pop songs, Urdu music has something for everyone.
We'll look at some of the most famous Urdu songs that have left a lasting impact on listeners. Whether you are a die-hard fan or a newcomer to the genre, these songs are sure to leave you spellbound with their soulful melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and emotional depth.
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1. “Dil Dil Pakistan” By Vital Signs
Song Year: 1987
“Dil Dil Pakistan” celebrates the beauty, diversity, and spirit of Pakistan and encourages unity and national pride.
In the chorus, the singer repeatedly declares love and loyalty to his country. The lyrics focus on Pakistan's rich culture, diverse landscape, and the country's pride in its achievements. “Dil Dil Pakistan” is still widely played and sung at patriotic events, sports matches, and other national celebrations.
2. “Naam” By Tulsi Kumar and Millind Gaba
Song Year: 2021
The song “Naam” explores the idea of a long-distance relationship and how it feels to love someone from afar without being able to share in the intimacy of spending time together physically.
It's hard to be separated by distance and the singer describes yearning to be reunited. The lyrics speak about the power of love and how it can overcome all obstacles and unite two souls.
3. “Tajdar-e-Haram” By Atif Aslam
Song Year: 2015
“Tajdar-e-Haram” is a tribute to the Islamic prophet Muhammad. The words convey the singer's devotion to god and the prophet. The title refers to the sacred mosque in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, where Muslims perform their pilgrimage.
Aslam sings about his desire to follow in Mohammed's footsteps and the prophet's revered status among Muslims. Throughout the song, there are references to Islamic teachings and beliefs.
4. “Khaani” By Rahat Fateh Ali Khan
Song Year: 2017
“Khaani” revolves around the theme of unrequited love and the pain of separation.
The song talks about the singer's desire to be reunited with the woman he loves, even if it means going through difficult times.
Throughout the song, he expresses the pain of being unable to be with her. Overall, the song is very relatable, as many listeners love the idea of wanting to be wanted by your significant other, hoping they share the same passion for being together as you do.
5. “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” By Arijit Singh
Song Year: 2016
“Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” talks about the pain of unreciprocated love and the emotions that come with it. The lyrics express the feelings of a person who is deeply in love with someone but cannot be with them due to circumstances beyond their control.
It's a song that many people can relate to because it talks about the complexities of love and how to cope with heartache.
6. “Chhor Denge” By Parampara Thakur
Song Year: 2021
“Chhor Denge” is a Bollywood song that tells the story of a woman betrayed by her lover and is now ready to move on from the relationship.
It details the strength and resilience of a woman who refuses to be held back by the pain of heartbreak and is determined to find a better future for herself. It is a powerful anthem for anyone who has been hurt in love and is looking for the strength to start again.
7. “Dama Dam Mast Qalandar” By Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan
Song Year: 1985
“Dama Dam Mast Qalandar” is a tribute to the Sufi saint Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, who is revered in many parts of South Asia.
The lyrics convey a mix of praise for the saint, expressions of devotion, and calls to action for the listener. The song's message also reflects the ecstatic and trance-like state that devotees of the saint can achieve through their worship.
8. “Tum Hi Ho” By Arijit Singh
Song Year: 2013
“Tum Hi Ho” is a romantic song from the Bollywood film “Aashiqui 2”. The singer expresses intense love and devotion to their soulmate. The title means “You are the one” in English, further emphasizing the central theme of love and happiness.
The song has universal appeal, and it continues to be played and sung at weddings, concerts, and other romantic events. Overall, “Tum Hi Ho” is one of the most iconic songs of recent times in Indian film music.
9. “Woh Humsafar Tha” By Quratulain Balouch
Song Year: 2011
“Woh Humsafar Tha” depicts a person that's longing for their soulmate, and it describes what it feels like to come across someone that piques your interest and to begin to fall in love with them.
While some people don't like that vulnerability, there's also a bit of excitement that you can feel when you anxiously await your companion. The song has since been covered and adapted by various artists.
10. “Jiya Dhadak Dhadak Jaye” By Rahat Fateh Ali Khan
Song Year: 2005
“Jiya Dhadak Dhadak Jaye” is a classic song from the film “Kalyug.” It's one of the best Urdu songs that discuss the feeling of falling in love and the joy and excitement that come with it. The singer describes the protagonist's heart beating faster and faster with the anticipation of being with their loved one.
The song also captures the other side of emotions that one experiences, like the trepidation that occurs when you realize you're falling in love with someone, and you hope it works out.
