The COVID-19 pandemic between 2020 and 2022 took away many lives with the whole world full of grief. One among many who lost their lives to the pandemic was music composer-singer Wajid Khan. Wajid Khan of the Sajid-Wajid duo passed away on June 1, 2020. Today marks the late musician’s 47th birth anniversary and we provide a sneak peek into his career on the occasion.
Wajid Khan, a celebrated composer, is fondly remembered not just for his soulful music but also for his close bond with Salman Khan. True to his name, Wajid consistently brought a fresh and unique touch to his compositions. Together with his brother Sajid, he became one of the most successful musical partnerships in Bollywood.
Wajid’s journey in the film industry began with Salman Khan’s movie Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya (1998), where he composed the memorable track Teri Jawani Badi Mast Mast Hai. Although it was his debut, the song left a lasting impression. Born on October 7, 1977, into a musically gifted family, Wajid’s father, Sharafat Ali Khan, was a renowned tabla player, and his maternal grandfather, Ustad Faiyaz Ahmed Khan, a Padma Shri awardee, was a legendary classical vocalist. Music truly ran in his veins, and he continued the family legacy by leaving an indelible mark on Bollywood music.
He had a deep passion for playing the guitar, which became a signature aspect of his music. Though introverted by nature, as his brother Sajid often fondly recalls, Wajid had a unique way of expressing himself through music, a trait his brother misses greatly.
One touching incident often comes up in stories about Wajid. Early in his career, while working as a guitarist under the direction of a prominent music composer, Wajid faced an unjust moment. His fellow musician played a wrong tune, and when the composer asked who was responsible, the blame was placed on Wajid. Despite his innocence, Wajid quietly accepted the criticism, but it left him deeply disappointed. His father, the esteemed tabla player Sharafat Ali Khan, had been present and was equally affected, with tears in his eyes. This incident became a turning point. Wajid, with his brother Sajid by his side, resolved that day to compose their music, marking the beginning of their brilliant musical journey together. This determination led the Sajid-Wajid duo to create some of the most memorable tracks in Bollywood.
They composed music for many Salman Khan films like Garv, Tere Naam, Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge, Partner and also in Dabangg, Dabangg 2 and Dabangg 3. Apart from this, Wajid lent his voice to Salman in Mera Hi Jalwa, Fevicol Se and Akshay Kumar’s song Chinta Ta Chita Chita.
Wajid Khan married his college sweetheart Kamalrukh. They married each other under the Special Marriages Act that allowed Kamalrukh to keep her religion and marry without conversion despite the opposition of Wajid’s family. However, due to religious differences, they ultimately divorced. They have two children together.
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