Yash Raj Films and director Mohit Suri recently unveiled the title track of their upcoming romantic drama, Saiyaara, and while the song has been winning hearts for its nostalgic feel and soulful melody, it also marks the debut of two fresh voices from Kashmir: Faheem Abdullah and Arslan Nizami. The newcomers, who have lent their voices to a film starring debutants Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, are being celebrated not just for their music but for what they represent: a new wave of regional talent finding space in mainstream Hindi cinema.
EXCLUSIVE: Saiyaara debutants Faheem Abdullah and Arslan Nizami recall how a 10-15-day trip to Mumbai became a “game changer;” admit feeling “nervous and anxious” recording in front of Mohit Suri, share thoughts on AI in music, Ahaan Panday, and more!
In a candid chat with Bollywood Hungama, the duo shared their journey from Kashmir to Mumbai, the story behind landing the project, and how they feel about being a part of a film that’s drawing comparisons to the golden era of Bollywood music.
A Leap of Faith From Kashmir
Recounting their early days, Faheem shared, “We started our journey long ago, releasing our own music in 2020. I came out with ‘Jhelum’ and Arslan with ‘Jaan Wandiyo’. Both got a great local response. Eventually, we launched KMR – Kashmir Music Revolution Studio. One day, I told Arslan, ‘Let’s go to Mumbai for 10-15 days and just try our luck.’ Those 15 days changed everything. From there, there’s been no looking back.”
That leap of faith led them to collaborations with composer Tanishk Bagchi and filmmaker Mohit Suri for Saiyaara, a film now backed by none other than YRF.
Old-School Bollywood Vibes? They’ve Seen the Comments
As Saiyaara‘s title track flooded social media, many fans said the song reminded them of the old Bollywood era. “Yes, we read those comments,” said Faheem. “It feels great because music once used to drive the storytelling. And who better than Mohit Suri to bring that back? It’s a blessing that people associate our song with that era.”
Pressure or Privilege?
With Mohit Suri, Tanishk Bagchi, and YRF in the mix, did pressure creep in? “Honestly, it felt more like a responsibility,” Faheem admitted. “Sir has been making films for 20 years. When he was in the room during recording, I couldn’t even sing initially—I was so nervous. But the team trusted us, gave us creative freedom. That helped.”
No Connection to the Original ‘Saiyaara’
On whether they were cautious of comparisons with the 2012 Ek Tha Tiger track of the same name, Arslan clarified: “Not really. Initially, the song was called ‘Saiya’, and later it became Saiyaara. Even we didn’t know the title would end up being that.”
Meeting Ahaan Panday and Getting the Brief
The duo also had a chance to meet actor Ahaan Panday during the recording. “He was there to understand how we work as singers since it’s a music-driven film. We had a great chat post-recording, and we’ve stayed in touch,” Faheem shared.
How Mohit Suri Discovered Them
Recounting how the Saiyaara journey began, Arslan revealed: “It started at Tanishk dada’s place. We had just finished one half of the song and played it for him. He loved the melody and said, ‘Mohit sir will love this too.’ That day, we sang the song nearly 60 to 70 times to get into the vibe. Eventually, we spoke to Mohit sir on the phone and then met him for a proper briefing.”
On AI in Music: ‘It Can Replicate, Not Create’
Asked about AI-generated voices replacing artists, the duo had strong views. “Art needs emotion,” said Arslan. “AI can generate sound but not soul.” Faheem added, “If I had to choose, I’d love to hear ‘Saiyaara’ in Rafi Saab’s voice.”
Future Dreams: Singing for Ranbir, Aditya & YRF’s Spy Universe
Asked which actors they’d love to sing for, Faheem said, “I’d love to be the voice of Aditya Roy Kapur and Ranbir Kapoor.” Arslan added, “For me, it would be Shah Rukh sir and Ranbir Kapoor. Huge fan.” And if YRF’s spy universe ever calls? “Why not?” smiled Faheem. “It’s a gigantic world out there. We’re ready.”
More Pages: Saiyaara Box Office Collection
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