Meeting Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was my destination, moment of divine help: AR Rahman

(Web Desk) – Renowned Indian composer and singer AR Rahman has described his meeting with legendary Pakistani qawwal Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan as one of the most extraordinary and spiritual experiences of his life, calling it a moment that felt like ‘divine help.’

In an interview with a British private television channel, the Oscar-winning musician paid rich tribute to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s artistic brilliance and towering personality. Rahman said that meeting the iconic qawwali maestro felt like reaching a long-destined milestone in his life.

AR Rahman recalled that he had the rare honour of recording a song with Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, but sadly, the legendary singer passed away just a month after the recording. Reflecting on that time, Rahman said the opportunity came at a moment when it felt almost miraculous.

Responding to a question about whether he might have missed the chance had that meeting not taken place then, Rahman said it was quite possible. He shared that when Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan visited Mumbai, he learned countless things from him in a very short span of time. Rahman said he entered Nusrat’s room without hesitation and described the experience as an “open door” to a world of learning.

He further recalled that it was around 1 a.m. when Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan arrived, sat down, and the session unfolded naturally. A harmonium and tabla were brought in, and Nusrat Sahib began teaching him the finer nuances of qawwali.

When asked if he remembered the qawwali from that session, AR Rahman said it was the famous “Tu Kuja Man Kuja.” During the programme, he also sang the qawwali, leaving viewers mesmerized.

AR Rahman said that Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan was not only a great artist but a living institution in himself, and learning in his presence was nothing short of a blessing.