Faiz Mustafa on singing for AR Rahman in 'Gandhi Talks': 'It feels like a blessing that has come full circle'
ETimes | February 3, 2026 6:39 PM CST
Life’s poetic coincidences have once again found expression in music. Composer AR Rahman , who was mentored by the legendary Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan , has now collaborated with Khan’s grandson, singer Faiz Mustafa . The 25-year-old vocalist has lent his voice to ‘Zara Zara’, a song featured in the upcoming film ‘ Gandhi Talks ’, starring Vijay Sethupathi and Aditi Rao Hydari .
For Faiz Mustafa, being part of a Rahman composition remains deeply special. Speaking about his experience, the singer shared that hearing the track for the first time was an emotional moment. “When I first heard the composition, I was thankful to the Almighty that Rahman uncle chose me for it,” he shared with Mid-Day. The recording session itself brought back memories from his childhood. Mustafa recalled how Rahman recognised him instantly. “After the recording, he asked me, ‘Are you the same little boy who sang Aao Balma?’” he added, highlighting the personal bond they share.
A Journey that began earlyFaiz Mustafa’s association with AR Rahman dates back more than a decade. He was just 13 years old when he performed alongside his grandfather and Rahman on the third season of MTV Coke Studio, rendering Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan’s composition ‘Aao Balma’. That moment marked the beginning of a long musical journey under the maestro’s guidance. Since then, Mustafa has continued to collaborate with Rahman, often joining him on stage during international concerts and live performances.
Learning from a legendReflecting on their relationship, Mustafa described Rahman as more than just a collaborator. “At 14, I had my first stage performance with him at a Dubai show,” he recalled. He went on to say, “Rahman uncle is like a father figure.” For the young singer, the collaboration carries a deeper emotional meaning. “For me, this feels like a blessing that has come full circle. My grandfather taught Rahman uncle, and today I am learning from him,” Mustafa shared.
With ‘Gandhi Talks’ bringing together generations of musical legacy, Faiz Mustafa’s journey stands as a testament to how art, mentorship, and destiny often intertwine in the most unexpected ways.
For Faiz Mustafa, being part of a Rahman composition remains deeply special. Speaking about his experience, the singer shared that hearing the track for the first time was an emotional moment. “When I first heard the composition, I was thankful to the Almighty that Rahman uncle chose me for it,” he shared with Mid-Day. The recording session itself brought back memories from his childhood. Mustafa recalled how Rahman recognised him instantly. “After the recording, he asked me, ‘Are you the same little boy who sang Aao Balma?’” he added, highlighting the personal bond they share.
A Journey that began earlyFaiz Mustafa’s association with AR Rahman dates back more than a decade. He was just 13 years old when he performed alongside his grandfather and Rahman on the third season of MTV Coke Studio, rendering Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan’s composition ‘Aao Balma’. That moment marked the beginning of a long musical journey under the maestro’s guidance. Since then, Mustafa has continued to collaborate with Rahman, often joining him on stage during international concerts and live performances.
Learning from a legendReflecting on their relationship, Mustafa described Rahman as more than just a collaborator. “At 14, I had my first stage performance with him at a Dubai show,” he recalled. He went on to say, “Rahman uncle is like a father figure.” For the young singer, the collaboration carries a deeper emotional meaning. “For me, this feels like a blessing that has come full circle. My grandfather taught Rahman uncle, and today I am learning from him,” Mustafa shared.
With ‘Gandhi Talks’ bringing together generations of musical legacy, Faiz Mustafa’s journey stands as a testament to how art, mentorship, and destiny often intertwine in the most unexpected ways.
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