The iconic song "Hum Dekhenge," penned by the renowned poet Faiz Ahmed Faiz in 1979, became an unshakeable symbol of defiance against the oppressive military regime of General Zia-ul-Haq in Pakistan. Faiz wrote the poem during a time when Pakistan was enduring political turmoil under Zia's authoritarian rule, which had curtailed democracy and imposed strict religious laws. The poem's lyrics, which resonated with the ideals of resistance, captured the spirit of hope and a promise that the oppressed would eventually overcome.

However, it was Iqbal Bano, a celebrated Pakistani singer, who truly immortalized the poem. On February 13, 1986, Bano performed "Hum Dekhenge" before a crowd of 50,000 people in Lahore. In an act of powerful protest, she wore a black sari—an attire banned by the regime at the time—as she sang Faiz’s words. The black sari, a bold visual symbol of defiance, echoed the sentiment of protest, as did the impassioned delivery of Bano's voice, making it clear that resistance was alive and thriving.

The performance became an unforgettable moment in Pakistan's history, and the song's emotional resonance transcended borders. The song, with its evocative lyrics and Bano's powerful voice, captured the essence of defiance, becoming an anthem of protest not only for Pakistanis under military rule but for many oppressed people around the world. Iqbal Bano, already a prominent figure in ghazals, had found her most revolutionary role as the voice of resistance, making this performance one of the most important moments in South Asian political music history.

Despite its political implications, "Hum Dekhenge" continues to be sung at protests and gatherings across the globe, with its message of hope and resilience still poignant in times of struggle.