Hadiqa Kiani Releases Much-awaited Folk-classical Single ‘Challa’

In a reel shared by the star, she opened up about the song’s deep personal and artistic meaning, calling it a long-held dream come true. “I’m overjoyed to share that my new song Challa releases December 11 on Sufiscore and all major digital platforms,” she said. “This timeless folk-classical piece has been performed by countless legends, and I’ve always dreamed of putting my own spin on it—pouring my heart into every note.”

For Kiani, Challa is more than just a cover: “Everyone connects with this song in their own way, but to me, it’s a soul—a spirit that enters the world, journeys through it, and ultimately finds its final destination.”

A beloved Punjabi folk classic, Kiani’s rendition pays tribute to iconic poets like Shiv Kumar Batalvi and Reshma, with music arranged by Irfan Kiani and produced by Sufiscore.

Renowned for her genre-defying versatility, Kiani has carved a decades-long career spanning pop hits, emotional ballads, and folk-inspired melodies, solidifying her status as one of Pakistan’s most cherished and enduring artists. Beyond music, she’s celebrated for her philanthropy and cultural impact: she was awarded the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz (one of Pakistan’s highest civilian honors) in 2006 for her contributions to music, and named to the BBC’s prestigious “100 Women 2024” list for her work as a humanitarian leader.

As a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Kiani has led initiatives like Vaseela-e-Raah, which provided critical relief and built homes for flood-affected families in Pakistan—using her platform to uplift communities in need.