Humaira Channa

Humaira Channa is a prominent Pakistani playback singer known for her extensive work in the film industry. She performs in Urdu, Punjabi, Saraiki and Sindhi. Throughout her career, she has recorded over 1000 songs.

Early life and education

Channa was born on 22 June 1966 in Hyderabad. She belongs to a Sindhi Muslim family. Her entry into the entertainment industry stems from her father, who works as a filmmaker. At the age of nine, she performs her first song for one of his films. Later, she receives an opportunity to sing the folk songs of Sufi Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai on Pakistani television in Karachi.

Career

The singer rises to significant fame during the early 1990s. During the 1980s, she serves as a substitute for Naheed Akhtar. This transition occurs after Naheed Akhtar decides to retire from the film industry to get married. Channa's versatility allows her to master various musical styles and languages.

Her television career includes performing on the 1983 show Silver Jubilee with Anwar Maqsood. She also records several title songs for popular drama series. These include Rishtay Mohabbaton Kay on Hum TV in 2009 and Shikan on PTV in 2010. She contributes to Kaash Aisa Ho on ARY TV in 2013 and Naagin on Geo Kahani in 2017.

Channa participates in multiple Coke Studio seasons to showcase her talent. In 2014, she performs Ambwa Talay with Javed Bashir and Mekaal Hasan Band. She also sings Phool Banro alongside Abbas Ali Khan during that same year. Her appearances continue in 2017 when she performs Mujh Se Pehli Si Muhabbat Mere Mehboob Na Maang with Nabeel Shaukat Ali.

She maintains an active presence through international concert tours. These travels take her to the United States and Canada. She also performs in the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh and across Europe. In 2017, she is among the iconic playback singers who express concerns regarding changing industry trends. Many artists report a lack of work as the industry shifts focus toward pop musicians and music bands.

Awards and recognition

Channa holds a distinguished place in the history of Pakistani music. She has won 6 Nigar Awards for Best Female Playback Singer. These honors were received in 1986, 1989, 1991, 1993, 1994 and 1997. She holds the record for the 3rd highest number of Nigar Awards, trailing only Noor Jehan and Mehnaz.

Her excellence is recognized by national institutions as well. She receives the Pakistani TV (PTV) Best Singer Award in 1986. Additionally, the President of Pakistan confers the Pride of Performance Award upon her in 2017.