Renowned Pakistani qawwal and singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan has praised Indian Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh for performing the iconic qawwali Saanson Ki Mala Pe, originally associated with legendary Pakistani singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.
Rahat praised Diljit’s approach to the composition, saying the Indian singer had done full justice to the qawwali. His comments came ahead of Rahat’s concert in Toronto, where he spoke about the challenges artists can face when performing compositions made famous by Nusrat.
Rahat praises Diljit’s performance
Speaking about Diljit’s rendition, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan acknowledged that even experienced and accomplished singers may feel hesitant when attempting to perform Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s compositions.
According to Rahat, Diljit approached the qawwali with confidence and sincerity, allowing him to deliver a performance that earned appreciation.
Rahat said Diljit had “done full justice” to the composition and praised the singer’s talent.
He also noted that the performance could be both seen and heard by audiences, adding that he would certainly commend Diljit for his rendition.
The comments from Rahat are significant because Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s music remains highly influential across South Asia and among international audiences.
Diljit performs at Wembley Stadium
Diljit Dosanjh performed Saanson Ki Mala Pe during his concert at London’s Wembley Stadium on September 12.
The performance attracted a strong response from the audience, with concertgoers joining Diljit in singing along to the well-known qawwali.
The choice of song stood out because Diljit is widely known for his Punjabi music, which combines traditional influences with contemporary production and modern genres.
By performing one of Nusrat’s most recognisable compositions, Diljit connected his contemporary Punjabi performance style with a classic piece of South Asian musical heritage.
The Wembley performance subsequently attracted attention online, with viewers and music fans discussing Diljit’s interpretation of the song.
A different side of Diljit’s repertoire
Diljit has built an international profile through music that blends Punjabi folk traditions with modern sounds, including pop and hip-hop influences.
His decision to perform Saanson Ki Mala Pe offered audiences a different side of his musical repertoire.
Rather than relying solely on contemporary Punjabi hits, the performance highlighted his willingness to explore older and culturally significant compositions.
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s qawwalis have remained popular across generations, and his influence extends well beyond Pakistan. His distinctive vocal style and spiritual musical performances helped introduce qawwali to audiences around the world.
Diljit’s performance at Wembley brought one of those celebrated compositions to a large international audience.
Diljit’s growing international profile
Diljit Dosanjh has become increasingly recognised on international music and entertainment platforms in recent years.
In 2023, he became the first Punjabi artist to perform at the Coachella Music Festival, marking a notable moment for Punjabi music on the global stage.
His international appearances continued in 2024 when he made his debut on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Later that year, Diljit also became the first South Asian artist to appear on the cover of Billboard magazine, further reflecting the growing international reach of his music career.
These appearances have helped introduce Punjabi music and culture to audiences outside South Asia.
Nusrat’s legacy continues through new performances
Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan remains one of the most influential figures in qawwali and South Asian music.
His compositions continue to be performed and reinterpreted by artists across different musical backgrounds. While performing a composition made famous by such a legendary artist can present challenges, it can also introduce the music to new generations.
Diljit’s rendition of Saanson Ki Mala Pe at Wembley demonstrated how a traditional qawwali can be presented within a contemporary international concert setting.
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s public appreciation of the performance has added further attention to the rendition, particularly because of his own connection to the musical tradition and his family’s legacy in qawwali.
A moment connecting two musical traditions
The exchange between Rahat and Diljit highlights the continuing cultural reach of Punjabi music and qawwali.
Rahat’s comments recognise Diljit’s interpretation while the Wembley performance demonstrated the ability of a classic composition to connect with a modern international audience.
For fans of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, the performance offered an opportunity to hear one of his celebrated compositions in a new setting. For Diljit’s international audience, it provided exposure to a piece of South Asian musical heritage that has remained influential for decades.
The appreciation surrounding the performance also reflects the continued popularity of Punjabi music and qawwali among audiences around the world.
Also read: Dance Showdown: Atif Aslam Accused of Following Diljit Dosanjh
