Master Ashiq Hussain: The man behind composition "Duma Dum Mast Qalandar"

Master Ashiq Hussain, the talented music composer of the 1950s, created the iconic melody for the qawwali "Duma Dum Mast Qalandar, Laal Meri Pat" which is widely recognized today. This tune was composed for the film of Inayat Hussain Bhatti in the 1950s, featuring updated lyrics by Saghar Siddiqui.

Sadly, Master Ashiq Hussain never received any recognition for his work. He passed away in 2018 in the slums near Bhatti Gate, Lahore, where he lived with his family. His son, Asif Ali, who was the sole breadwinner for the family, had to sell pakoras for a living despite being a professional keyboard player due to the lack of demand for his talent. Asif Ali passed away from a heart attack just before his father's death.

Despite the widespread popularity of "Laal Meri Pat," Master Ashiq Hussain never received the respect and recognition he deserved for creating its famous melody. Even though famous artists across India and Pakistan have performed the qawwali, the composer remains largely unknown. Master Ashiq Hussain's funeral was organized by the residents of his neighborhood.