Raja Mehdi Ali Khan was a writer, poet and a lyricist in the Hindi film industry. He was born in Karimabad (now in Pakistan) in 1928. He lost his father when he was only 4 years old and was mentored by his mother, a poet herself, and later by the renowned port Dr. Allama Iqbal, who happened to be a family friend.

At his first job at Air India Radio in Delhi, Raja Mehdi got acquainted with writer Saadat Hasan Manto who was also working there. It was at Manto's behest that Raja Mehdi went to Bombay to work in films. After a brief stint as actor and dialogue writer, Raja Mehdi found his true calling when he got a chance to write lyrics for the film "Do Bhai" (1947). Two songs from the film, "Mera Sundar Sapna Beet Gaya" and "Yaad Karoge Ik Din Humko" became big hits and Raja Mehdi became a much sought after lyricist.

When Partition came, Raja Mehdi decided to stay in India instead of migrating to the newly formed Pakistan. It was decision that would result in many beautiful Hindi films songs, for in 1950 Raja Mehdi met with music director Madan Mohan and worked with him in his debut film as composer, "Aankhein". While Raja Mehdi worked with many music directors - notably with Ghulam Haider for "Shaheed" (1948) and with O.P. Nayyar for "Ek Musafir Ek Hasina" (1962) - he is best remembered for his work with Madan Mohan, who was also a close friend. Together they created some memorable music for films like "Madhosh" (1950), "Anpadh" (1962), "Aap Ki Parchhaiyan" (1964), "Woh Kaun Thi" (1964), "Dulhan Ek Raat Ki" (1966) and "Mera Saaya" (1966).

Raja Mehdi Ali Khan passed away on July 27, 1966.