Popularly known as the 'Nightingale of the Desert',
Reshma was best known for her distinguishing rendition of Punjabi Folk
songs. Her death earlier this month, due to throat cancer has shocked
her fans. Hailing from Bikaner, Rajasthan, Reshma was born in the year
1947. Diagnosed with the disease, she was under treatment for many years
now. She is survived by son Umair and daughter Khadija.
The ace singer was spotted at a tender age of 12
while singing at Shahbaz Qalandar's shrine , a sufi saint, by a former
Radio producer and made her record a song 'Laal Meri' on state-run
Pakistan Radio. With her successful rendition of the sparkling 'Dama Dam
Mast Qalandar', a traditional song praising a Sufi mystic, spiritual
song encompassing the emotion of a pious euphoria, she became widely
known in many local circles. A big break came towards her way in 1983 as
she made her debut in the Bollywood industry with "Lambi Judaai". Some
of her other famous tracks that take account as hits are 'Hai O Rabba
nahion lagda dil mera' and 'Ankhiyan no rehen de ankhyan de kol kol'.
The singer, who had an enormous fan following for her
mesmerizing husky voice was awarded several national awards during her
soaring career. She won prestigious awards including 'Sitara-i-Imtiaz'
and 'Legends Of Pakistan' which in fact was bestowed on her by the
President of Pakistan. The successful singer was one of those honoured
by then Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi to meet her in person.
Few years back, in 2005 Reshma released her final album titled "The
Nomad".
The lady stands immortal as an inspiration for many.
During her stint, she did her best to popularize 'folk' music. The
Indian and the Pakistani music industry will surely miss the star
singer.