The simplicity and truthfulness of his dialect, the use of common language, renowned poet and film lyricist Qateel Shifai bid farewell to the world 22 years ago.
Qateel Shifai was born on December 24, 1919, in Haryanpur Hazara. His real name was Aurangzeb Khan. He began his poetic journey by seeking guidance from Hakim Muhammad Yehiya Shifa and later moved to Lahore, where he started his career as a lyricist with Pakistan’s first film, “Teri Yaad.”
As a film lyricist, he wrote more than 900 songs for over 200 films. The secret to his popularity lies in the simplicity, truthfulness, and use of common language in his compositions. Qateel Shifai holds a significant position among progressive poets, and his poetic collections, including Haryali, Gujjar Jaltaring, Rozen, Jhumar, Chattanar, Guftagu, Ababeel, Bargad, Ghungroo, Phoar, and Sanam, are noteworthy.
He even wrote a couplet titled “Ghunghroo Tut Gaye” (The Anklets Have Broken), highlighting his own demise. Qateel Shifai was honored with numerous awards, including the Presidential Award for his outstanding contributions.
Qateel Shifai passed away on July 11, 2001, in Lahore and was laid to rest in Allama Iqbal Town, Karim Block Cemetery, finding eternal peace in the soil.