Renowned Pakistani singer Humaira Channa has opened a rare window into her past, revealing the emotional burden she carried in the early days of her career. Speaking on Dunya TV’s Mazaaq Raat, she recalled how choosing music alienated her from parts of her own family.

Though her father worked as a producer in regional and Urdu-language films, and her mother appreciated artistic expression, extended family members were less accepting. One uncle cut all ties with her father, condemning his support for Humaira’s ambition. Rumors and judgments spread, accusing her family of letting a young girl “sing for money.”

But even in a conservative cultural landscape, Humaira forged ahead. Starting with Radio Pakistan and Pakistan Television, she gradually gained ground as a reliable and skilled playback singer. Her real break came with the film Hum Ek Hain, under the baton of composer Nisar Bazmi, who trusted her talent enough to assign her the entire soundtrack.

That decision sparked unrest within the production. The film’s lead actress wanted to record the songs herself. Bazmi refused to compromise, and Humaira stood her ground, delivering powerful performances. Despite further tensions with the male lead actor, the film brought her recognition and awards.

She later performed alongside greats such as Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, cementing her status as one of Pakistan’s most beloved voices.

On her personal values, Humaira spoke clearly: “I never experienced love before marriage,” she said. For her, love was sacred and reserved for her spouse alone—rejecting the idea of fleeting, one-sided affection.

Interestingly, the same family members who once disowned her came back into her life after her rise to fame. Their attitudes shifted from shame to pride.

Humaira Channa’s path wasn’t easy—but it’s a compelling example of staying true to oneself in the face of judgment, proving that talent and persistence can eventually heal even the deepest rifts.