One of the greatest ghazal singers and composers there ever was, Jagjit Singh lent magic to his music. His heart-touching ghazals have been there with us in times of heartbreak, in times of longing and even first love. Deservedly called the ‘Ghazal King’, Jagjit Singh brought ghazal to the masses. The pain and calm in his voice was unmatched and immortalized his ghazals for generations to come. Along with his wife Chitra Singh, he gave the Hindi film industry some of its most poignant music. 

Although each one of his ghazal songs is a classic in itself and it’s not possible to select only a few from them, we picked out the most soul-stirring of his songs. 

1. Tumko Dekha Toh Yeh Khayal Aaya 

One of the most famous songs by Jagjit and Chitra Singh, this beautiful composition became every lover’s go-to song. 

2. Hothon Se Choo Lo Tum

One of the most eternal romantic ghazal songs of all time. 

3. Jhuki Jhuki Si Nazar 

Written by Kaifi Azmi, this beautiful ghazal song from the film ‘Arth’ is a classic. 

4. Tum Itna Jo Muskura Rahe Ho  5. Hoshwalon Ko Khabar Kya  6. Ek Pyaar Ka Nagma Hai   7. Aah Ko Chahiye 

No one else could have done justice to Mirza Ghalib’s beautiful verse.

8. Hazaaron Khwahishen Aisi 9. Kal Chaudhvi Ki Raat Thi   10. Unke Dekhe Se  11. Koi Fariyad  12. Tere Khushboo Mein Base Khat   13. Woh Kaghaz Ki Kashti 14. Yeh Tera Ghar Yeh Mera Ghar  15. Jab Samne Tum Aa Jate Ho  16. Ye Daulat Bhi Le Lo

This one called ‘Punjabi Tappe’ by Jagjit and Chitra Singh, recorded in 1979 in Birmingham, is an iconic Punjabi folk song. A version of it was also included in the film ‘Bride and Prejudice’. 

And if you want to listen to all his songs, his whole career, the ghazals closest to his heart – this live concert at Sydney Opera House is the best thing to listen to. 

We have also compiled a playlist of the 16 songs for you to bookmark. 

Grab a warm cup of coffee and cuddle up with this mellow playlist.