Khursheed Nurali (Sheerazi) - singer

Ali Anter Maa Maara, Aakhi Aalam Maa(n) Naam Taaru(n) Gaajatu(n) Re, Chando Malkai, and Ek Var Mare Gamade are only a few examples of Khursheed’s geets that have captured the hearts of generations of Ismailis around the world.

Née Khursheed Sheerazi, her parents cultivated her curiosity in singing from an early age. Under the tutelage of respected Indian classical ustads, her interest quickly became a singular passion and by the age of 16 she had launched her professional career.  Within a few short years, she became Radio Pakistan’s top commercial recording artist, parlaying this success into appearances on TV and opportunities to record playback for Pakistan cinema.

As her reputation grew within the entertainment industry, Khursheed became equally admired for her melodious and heart-felt rendition of our ginans with murids travelling from across Karachi to hear her. One of her greatest achievements was in 1963, when at the age of 20, Khursheed had the honour of singing in the presence of Mawlana Hazar Imam. Little did she know then that she would have eight additional opportunities to recite in the Imam’s presence, including during his visit to Karachi in 1964, as well as in the "Mystical Journey" performance in Paris during the Golden Jubilee.

It was at an institutional dinner in Dhaka in January 1970 that Khursheed’s singing career took a turn. Requested by Mawlana Hazar Imam to perform impromptu, she presented him with a commemorative recording of Ali Anter Maa Maara, which has since become synonymous with celebratory events of Ismailis. Her pioneering efforts to ensure that geets would be considered a widely accepted form of devotional expression has inspired countless generations of artists to carry on this magnificent custom.

However, her greatest contribution was inspired by a sense of duty to preserve our community’s unique religious musical tradition. Khursheed has dedicated her life to imparting this knowledge to thousands of students all over the globe. The fact that several of her students themselves have in turn had the opportunity to recite in the presence of Mawlana Hazar Imam has become a source of immense fulfillment for her.

When asked what has sustained her commitment through 50 years of service to the Jamat through music and teaching, Khursheed says, “It has been my lifelong desire to use my God-given gift to serve the Imam and inspire and uplift the global Jamat.”

Listen to Khursheed's recordings:

• Aakhi Aalam Maa(n) Naam
• Mag Mag Ta Fhoolda Thi Shah Ne Vadhaviye
• Lakh Lakh Deevadiya Ni Aarti
• E Naam Ne Sijdi Karu(n) Hu(n) Aaj
• Pyaara Karim Shah
• Mithu(n) Laage Chhe Naam