Meet two Kashmiri artistes who are behind Saiyaara's soul-stirring music

India Today

5 days ago

'Saiyaara' is not just rewriting box office records - it's rewriting what love feels like for a generation of movie-goers. The YRF romantic drama has struck a chord with audiences across the country, not only with its compelling story but with music that feels like it was born from heartbreak and healing itself. And leading this emotional wave is the film's title track - a hauntingly beautiful melody that's already climbed the chartbusters list.advertisementWhile composer Tanishk Bagchi has rightfully been celebrated as the man of the moment, a few know that the soul of 'Saiyaara', its title track, was brought to life by two debutant musicians from Kashmir - Faheem Abdullah and Arslan Nizami.The duo, who have long been admired in the independent music industry for their melodic voices and musical depth, have finally found a national platform - and all of it seems magical. With 'Saiyaara', their voices have travelled beyond the mountains they call home, into the hearts of millions, making them overnight sensations.
Abdullah, a celebrated name in the local music scene, calls 'Saiyaara' his dream Bollywood debut. More importantly, he sees it as a chance to represent Kashmir's rich artistic heritage on the national stage.It was Bagchi - whom the duo fondly refer to as an elder brother - who introduced them to director Mohit Suri. And from that serendipitous connection, 'Saiyaara' was born - a song that seems musically rich but also acts like a nourishment to the soul. While speaking about the opportunity, Abdullah told the media, "It is an honour to represent Kashmir in the Hindi film industry with our musical debut in 'Saiyaara'. Our state has beautiful people and incredible artists. I am really happy that two Kashmiri boys have worked really hard to land this project of a lifetime and are trying to make a name for themselves in the Hindi film industry."He also spoke of how this breakthrough could open the door for more Kashmiri talent to enter Bollywood, adding, "We want to make our people back home to be proud of our work, and it is truly humbling to witness that my song is the first track to open the 'Saiyaara' promotional campaign."Abdullah, already known for his mesmerising rendition of 'Ishq', has always had a voice that speaks directly to the heart. With 'Saiyaara', both he and Nizaami have now reached every corner of the country.A multifaceted singer-songwriter, Abdullah made his musical debut in 2020 with the single 'Jhelum'. Since then, he has journeyed across genres - ranging from Blues and Dream Pop to Sufi Rock and Ghazals - always carrying with him the spirit of his homeland. Deeply inspired by Kashmiri music and literature, he believes that true artistry lies in fearless expression, and that music, at its core, has the power to spark change.advertisement Reflecting on the overwhelming response, Abdullah said, "It is quite an overwhelming moment for me, my family, my friends and my well-wishers. 'Saiyaara' title track is one of the purest songs that I have ever heard, and I have tried to pour my everything into it under the guidance of the genius Tanishk Bagchi and the music visionary Mohit Suri. I share this moment with my friend Arslan, without whom the magic of 'Saiyaara' couldn't come alive."For Arslan Nizami, the journey has been nothing short of a dream. Quietly working to craft melodies with Abdullah, Nizami never imagined a Bollywood launch quite like this."I wouldn't have believed it if people had told me a couple of years earlier that I would get a chance to compose a song for a big film in the Hindi film industry. So, there was no way that I was dreaming that I would get a chance to compose for Mohit Suri in his directorial. This is an incredible milestone moment in my career and I couldn't be happier, prouder," he said.advertisementHe added, "To have my song, which I have composed along with an exceptionally talented fellow Kashmiri artist like Faheem and the incredible Tanishk Bagchi, lead the 'Saiyaara' promotional campaign feels surreal."The magic is not just in the melody, but in the moment. The emotion, the response, the reach - it's all been overwhelming for the duo. From Srinagar to the studios of Mumbai, their voices have crossed every invisible barrier, and both of them are aware of the success that 'Saiyaara' has brought for them."I am in disbelief, and I am speechless," Nizami confessed. "I'm proud that two Kashmiri boys are here in Mumbai and trying to show what we can do to the whole country. I know we will work exceptionally hard in the near future to make our state prouder and I thank Mohit Suri sir for his unflinching belief in us. He has given us wind beneath our wings to fly higher from here on," he elaborated.'Saiyaara' uses music as part of its narrative, not as an accessory. The story of a singer falling in love with a songwriter demands both chemistry and composition that stays with you long after the film ends. And thanks to the musical melodies carefully chosen by Suri, which he dedicated five years to collecting, every note lands with purpose.The film marks the acting debut of Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, and is produced by YRF's CEO Akshaye Widhani. Released in theatres on July 18, 2025, 'Saiyaara' is quickly proving that true love and true music always find its way.- Ends