Hasan Jahangir appeared on host Nida Yasir’s show Shan-e-Sahoor on ARY Digital, where he spoke about his career, the global love for his songs, and how the music industry has changed over the years. During the interview, Nida Yasir asked him whether filmmakers now pay him when they use his songs in their movies. Jahangir confirmed that they do and revealed that a recent big-budget film paid him a huge amount to feature Hawa Hawa.
He shared that the film, which reportedly cost around Rs 300 crore and went on to earn more than Rs 1,100 crore worldwide, paid him $50,000 for including the song. Jahangir said he was happy to see his old music still being appreciated and valued in the modern entertainment industry.
The singer also spoke about how things were very different when the song was first released. According to him, the concept of copyright and royalties was not properly followed in earlier decades. Because of this, artists often did not receive payment when their songs were reused or played in different places. However, times have changed now.
Jahangir explained that today, filmmakers and music producers must take permission before using his songs. He said that whenever someone wants to feature his music in a film or project, they contact him first and make the necessary payment. The singer added that he has only once allowed his song to be used for free, and that was for the television show Pakistan Idol.
During the interview, Hasan Jahangir also spoke about the continued popularity of many of his old songs. Apart from Hawa Hawa, tracks like Shawa Ve, Nakhra Gori Da, Aa Jaana Dil Deewana, and Hato Bacho are also frequently used in films and shows today. He said it feels special that music created decades ago is still loved by audiences across generations.
Talking about Hawa Hawa, Jahangir shared an interesting fact about the song’s age. He joked that the track is only two years younger than him. The song was recorded in 1986 and officially released in 1987, making it nearly 4 decades old. Despite its age, the song remains one of the most recognised pop tracks from the region.
The singer also recalled a memorable visit to India during the peak of his fame. Jahangir said he once travelled to Bombay by helicopter for a performance and was surprised by the overwhelming response from fans. When he landed at the airport, he noticed that many airport staff members had left their duty posts to see him.
He remembered how customs officers and security staff were following him around because they wanted to meet him. The singer said he had no idea that his music had created such excitement among fans there.
Jahangir also revealed that several big actors had come to welcome him, including popular Bollywood star Govinda. He shared that Govinda was a big fan of Hawa Hawa and had even sung the song himself.
Because of the huge crowd gathered at the airport, the organisers had to take Jahangir in a convoy to Hotel Sea Rock. From there, he was scheduled to perform at a stadium concert. While travelling to the venue, he noticed a large number of cars, fire brigade vehicles, and even ambulances along the route.
When he asked his manager why so many vehicles were present, he was told that the arrangements were made for his event. Jahangir said that moment made him realise the true meaning of stardom.
