The Foundational Work of Haji Muhammad Ali Zahoori (رحمہ اللہ) in Promoting Naat & Naat Lyrics
AlHaaj Muhammad Ali Zahoori Qasuri (رحمہ اللہ) is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the history of Naat-goi and Naat-khwani. His soulful recitation, heartfelt Naat lyrics, and unmatched devotion gained him immense respect, but his contributions extended far beyond personal performances. He was a visionary who reshaped the landscape of Naat poetry and elevated Naat gatherings across Pakistan.
Founding of Markazi Majlis-e-Hassan – A Historic Beginning (1966)
Among his most remarkable achievements was the founding of “Markazi Majlis-e-Hassan” in 1966, the first organized national institution in Pakistan dedicated to the promotion of Hamd and Naat.
He established this institution in honor of Hazrat Hassan ibn Thabit (RA), the poet of the blessed court of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. At that time, very few people were aware of Hazrat Hassan (RA), and Naat gatherings were usually limited to traditional Urs events, with speeches dominating the program while Naat reciters were given a secondary role.
Zahoori Sahib (رحمہ اللہ) brought a revolutionary change by highlighting the high status of the Naat reciter and demonstrating how Naat poetry can inspire love for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in society.
Organizing the First “Youm-e-Hassan (RA)”
In 1966, under the platform of Majlis-e-Hassan, he organized the first-ever Youm-e-Hassan (RA) at the shrine of Hazrat Baba Bulleh Shah (RA). This was a historic spiritual gathering held in remembrance of the poet of Rasool Allah ﷺ.
Many distinguished scholars and spiritual leaders attended on Zahoori Sahib’s special invitation, including:
- Imam Shah Ahmad Noorani (رحمہ اللہ)
- Maulana Abdul Sattar Khan Niazi (رحمہ اللہ)
- Pir Karam Shah al-Azhari (رحمہ اللہ)
- Allama Ahmad Saeed Kazmi (رحمہ اللہ)
- Mian Jameel Sharqpuri (رحمہ اللہ)
- Haji Hanif Tayyab
This event became a turning point in making Naat gatherings a respected, central part of religious and cultural life in Pakistan.
Expanding Majlis-e-Hassan Across 80 Cities
Through dedication, sincerity, and strong organizational skills, Zahoori Sahib (رحمہ اللہ) expanded Majlis-e-Hassan to 80+ cities across Pakistan.
This network gave rise to a new era of organized Naat gatherings, where reciters received proper recognition and young talent was actively encouraged and trained.
Notable Naat reciters introduced by him include:
- Qari Zubair Rasool Shaheed
- Akhtar Qureshi
- Saleem Sabri (رحمہ اللہ)
- Agha Gohar Ali
- Qari Abdul Mustafa Saeedi
- Taj Deen Okara
- Noor Muhammad Jarral
Even the legendary Shahenshah-e-Naqabat, Akhtar Sidiqi (رحمہ اللہ), began his career through the platform of Majlis-e-Hassan. He remained one of the closest companions of Zahoori Sahib and served the organization with great devotion.
Reviving Naat Culture – Historic Programs at Alhamra Hall
After moving from Kasur to Lahore, Zahoori Sahib reorganized the Lahore chapter of Majlis-e-Hassan and initiated a series of memorable Naat programs at the Alhamra Arts Council.
He organized several tribute evenings titled “Aik Shaam…”, dedicated to personalities who contributed to Hamd and Naat. His efforts were so impactful that Alhamra Hall, once known for dramas, dance, and music, began receiving more bookings for Naat gatherings than entertainment programs — a remarkable achievement.
Training Future Generations – Establishing “Aiwaan-e-Hassan (RA)”
At his residence in Lahore, Zahoori Sahib (رحمہ اللہ) established “Aiwaan-e-Hassan (RA)”, an institute devoted to teaching the art of Naat khwani to the younger generation.
He conducted weekly training sessions free of cost, teaching:
- Voice control & breath management
- Melody & rhythm
- Pronunciation & diction
- Understanding of Naat lyrics
- Proper Adab-e-Naat
These training sessions produced many skilled Naat reciters who later became known across Pakistan.
A Life of Pure Devotion & Sincerity
Perhaps the most inspiring element of Zahoori Sahib’s life was his sincerity. He spent his entire life reciting Naat purely for the love of Allah and His Beloved Messenger ﷺ.
He never demanded travel comfort, high-class arrangements, or financial rewards. He traveled through villages and remote areas, sometimes without even basic microphone facilities, solely to spread love for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
His mission was simple and pure: to light the flame of Ishq-e-Rasool ﷺ in every heart through the beauty of Naat poetry and Naat lyrics.
Through Majlis-e-Hassan, Aiwaan-e-Hassan, and countless Naat gatherings, Haji Muhammad Ali Zahoori (رحمہ اللہ) laid the foundation for modern Naat culture in Pakistan.
His work continues to inspire Naat lovers, researchers, and reciters. His Naat lyrics, Urdu Naat, Punjabi Naat, and unforgettable recitations remain a source of guidance and spiritual nourishment for generations.