"Only God can make these criminals understand"

PTI / The Hindu - New Delhi, India

Friday, March 23, 2007

Filling into the shoes of a maestro like Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan is no mean task, but this modest young man from Pakistan is not only continuing the legacy of the legendary Sufi singer with absolute elan, he has carved a niche for himself in the global music scene as well.

Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, nephew of Nusrat Fateh Ali took up the charge of his uncle's Qawwali troupe in 1997 after his untimely demise. Since then he has not looked back.

While his Sufi renditions have left audiences spellbound world wide, his recent forays into Bollywood have resulted in many blockbuster songs.

"Recently I have sung for Himesh Reshammiya in the film 'Namaste London'. It was a very nice experience working with him," he says about his recent Bollywood venture.
"I have also recorded two songs for two upcoming films of Sanjay Gupta. The music in these films is by Anu Malik and Anand Raj Anand," he says.

On his experience in the Indian film industry so far, he says, "Its been a superb experience. Its a good platform for singers like us".

Being from the Sufi tradition of music, the 33-year-old feels the young generation has a huge responsibility to conserve these ancient musical genres.
"At times we tend to be too westernised. The youth should not forget their roots and help in conserving these traditional musical forms such as sufi music," he says.

Despite all the western influences in Indian music, Sufi music continues to rule, feels the scion of noted Qawwal Farrukh Fateh Ali Khan.
"In all the new music done here, Sufi touch is being used. It was popular among the people and will continue to be so," Rahat says.

Reacting to the recent violence in the Samjhauta Express, he says, "Through music we have always tried to spread the message of love and friendship. But probably only God can make these criminals understand".