Ghazal is a form of lyrical tribute that has Arabic origins. One of the most ancient forms of poetry, ghazal first came into existence in the 7th century and gained popularity in the later eras. Love, heartbreak and Sufism are some of the most essential elements in a ghazal. In India ghazals are one of the most popular forms of music. Though in contemporary Hindi cinema, it is not popular, but still cherished as a form of music in the traditional art space.

It is also one of those art forms that have merged all geographical boundaries and especially connected India and Pakistan. Several ghazal singers from the two countries have delivered many gems in the last few decades. As we celebrate World Music Day 2018 on June 21, we thought of revisiting the old times and making a list of some timeless ghazals by singers from the two countries.

Here is a list of seven ghazals that the youth of today will love as much as the older generations.

Ranjish Hi Sahi by Mehdi Hassan

Penned by the legendary Urdu poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz, Ranjish hi sahi by Mehdi Hassan is a treasure. Hassan's voice adds intensity to every word of the ghazal and soul to the emotion of love.

Hoshwalon Ko Khabar Kya by Jagjit singh

Written by Nida Fazli, Hoshwalon ko khabar kya by Jagjit Singh captures the essence of love in all its purity. If you are in a whimsical mood this ghazal is surely going to give it a boost.

Lambi Judai by Reshma

Penned by lyricist Anand Bakshi, award winning Pakistani folk singer Reshma's voice does full justice to the ghazal Lambi judaai. It will fill you with the overwhelming emotion of a heartbreak.

Aaj Jaane Ki Zid Na Karo by Farida Khanum

The voice of Farida Khanum in Aaj jaane ki zid na karo does complete justice to the feeling of longing to be with your beloved. If you have a romantic heart and want to enjoy a love song, this ghazal written by Fayyaz Hashmi should be your go to one.

Afreen Afreen by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan

Originally written by Javed Akhtar and sung by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Afreen Afreen is now popularized because of the many recreations of the ghazal by contemporary singers. The ghazal beautifully conveys the emotions of  a love-struck heart.

Humko Kisi Ke Gum Ne Mara by Ghulam Ali 

Humko kisi ke gum ne mara by the iconic ghazal singer Ghulam Ali is another gem. It is sad yet playful and the words just strike all the right chords.

Dil Lagane Ki Baat Sochi Hai by Anup Jalota

Lyricist Harsh Brahmbhatt's ghazal Dil lagane ki baat sochi hai sung by Anup Jalota will give you a unique experience. It express the helplessness of love in a sombre yet subtle way. For a feel good experience you can totally listen to this one.

Pankaj Udhas, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Begum Akhtar, Talat Aziz, Noor Jehan, Bhupinder Singh and Abida Parveen are some other well-known ghazal singers. With their enchanting voices, they have broken all boundaries and touched the hearts of people across countries. And they continue to rule the hearts of every new generation.

We couldn't possibly make a list of all the best ghazals and singers, if we have missed your favorite, you can tell us in the comments below. Happy World Music Day :)

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 21, 2018 11:26 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).