Ali Zafar
Ali Mohammad Zafar (Urdu: علی ظفر; born 18 May 1980) is a Pakistani singer-songwriter, actor, painter, music producer, screenwriter and humanitarian. He rose to prominence with his debut album *Huqa Pani* (2003) featuring the hit single "Channo", which sold millions of copies and earned him multiple music awards.
Early Life and Education
Born in Lahore to university professors Mohammad Zafarullah and Kanwal Ameen, Zafar attended C.A.A. Public School and Beaconhouse School System. He later graduated from the National College of Arts in 2002 with honors in painting.
Music Career
Zafar began his career as a composer and singer in 2003 with his album *Huqa Pani*, whose lead single "Channo" became a massive hit in Pakistan and India. He has since released several studio albums including *Masty* (2006) and *Jhoom* (2011), the latter topping charts regionally and earning a Lux Style Award for Best Album.
He also composed Pakistan Super League anthems such as "Dil Se Jaan Laga De" (2018) and "Khul Ke Khel" (2024).
Film and Acting
Making his Bollywood debut with *Tere Bin Laden* (2010), Zafar went on to star in films like *Mere Brother Ki Dulhan*, *Chashme Baddoor*, and *Dear Zindagi* in both Pakistan and India. His performance in his debut film garnered a Filmfare Award nomination for Best Male Debut.
Art, Writing, and Philanthropy
In addition to music and film, Zafar is a trained painter and writer. He is the founder and chair of the Ali Zafar Foundation, which supports humanitarian causes across Pakistan.
Recognitions and Awards
Zafar has won numerous awards including multiple Lux Style Awards, three Indus Music Awards, a Stardust Award for Superstar of Tomorrow, and a Filmfare nomination. He was named "Sexiest Asian Man on the Planet" by Eastern Eye in 2013, and received Pakistan’s prestigious Pride of Performance award in 2021.
Personal Life
Zafar is married to Ayesha Fazli; the couple have two children. Zafar’s siblings include brothers Zain and Danyal Zafar, the latter of whom is also a musician and actor.
Contact and Social Media
According to his Instagram profile, Zafar is described as: "Singer, Actor, Producer, Writer, Painter, Humanitarian." Contact representation includes @dimtiaz and email addresses [email protected] and [email protected].