Haniya Aslam, the talented musician and one half of the acclaimed Zeb and Haniya duo, has tragically passed away, reportedly due to a cardiac arrest.
Her musical partner and cousin, Zeb Bangash, took to Instagram to share the heartbreaking news. Posting a series of photos of Haniya, who was not only an exceptional guitarist but also a cherished collaborator, Zeb captioned the images with a simple yet poignant “Hanini,” confirming the devastating loss.
Haniya was revered as one of the country’s finest musicians, contributing to many memorable compositions alongside Zeb. In 2014, she made the significant decision to move to Canada, where she pursued a solo music career and deepened her understanding of her craft.
The duo, Zeb and Haniya, gained widespread popularity for their soulful tracks, such as ‘Paimona’, ‘Chal Diye’, and ‘Chup’, featured in Coke Studio Pakistan’s Season 2. Their lively number ‘Bibi Sanam’ showcased the duo’s versatile musical talents.
In addition to her musical achievements, Haniya was a skilled sound engineer, contributing her expertise to the 2016 Pakistani short film ‘Lala Begum’. She also produced music for the Pakistani romantic film ‘Dobara Phir Se’ released the same year.
Haniya was also a co-author of one of the rare books that explore Pakistan’s contemporary youth music scene, reflecting her deep engagement with the industry.
Her sudden passing has sent shockwaves through her circle of friends, colleagues, and fans, both in Pakistan and internationally.
Swanand Kirkire, an Indian lyricist and playback singer, expressed his grief on X (formerly Twitter), mourning the loss of his “dear friend” Haniya. He wrote, “My dear friend Haniya Aslam (from Zeb and Haniya) has left us. She had a cardiac arrest. Rest in peace dear Haniya.”
Fasi Zaka, a prominent Pakistani commentator, columnist, and radio jockey, also took to X to share his sorrow, stating, “Haniya Aslam passes away. What a talented musician and kind soul. May she Rest in Peace. Truly saddening.”
