On January 17, 2026, a constellation of musical stars – A.R. Rahman, Sonu Nigam, Shaan, and Hariharan – united to honor the legacy of the late Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, a titan of Indian classical music. The event, "Haazri," a special tribute concert, was held on the fifth death anniversary of the legendary vocalist. This marked the fourth edition of Haazri, an annual concert organized by Khan's family and disciples, to celebrate his life and lasting impact. The concert was presented by NR Talent and Event Management and took place at Jio World Garden in Mumbai.
Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, a leading figure of the Rampur Sahaswan Gharana, mentored numerous prominent singers across various genres, including A.R. Rahman, Sonu Nigam, Hariharan, Shaan, Asha Bhosle, and Shilpa Rao. The tribute was not just a concert but a heartfelt expression of love, respect, and gratitude for a guru who profoundly shaped their musical journeys.
A.R. Rahman curated a special musical set for the evening as a mark of respect to his guru. He expressed how meaningful it was to put together a dedicated set in memory of his teacher and shared his excitement about performing alongside his fellow disciples.
Sonu Nigam described the concert as a deeply personal experience shaped by shared memories of their guru. He stated, "Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan sahab lives within us forever. I feel his presence around me always. He left behind a family for me in the form of his children and his students. Performing together at 'Haazri' will be extremely emotional".
Shaan reflected on his personal bond with his mentor, emphasizing that Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan was more than a teacher; he was a father figure. "It's never enough when you celebrate your guru and pay respect. He means a lot to me... To share the stage with all the greats of music is a matter of great privilege. I cannot wait for that moment to unfold," Shaan said. Shaan commenced his performance with "Main Hoon Don", later spoke on the impact Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan had on him and the teachings he passed on. He also performed a rendition of his guru's ghazal, "Chale Aao", and sang film tracks such as "Daastan-e-Om Shanti Om", "Deewangi Deewangi", "Chaand Sifarish", "Dus Bahane" and "Jabse Tere Naina". He also showed his dance moves before giving the audience a medley of "Chaar Kadam" and "Jaane Tu Ya Jane Na".
Hariharan, a regular participant at Haazri, emphasized the deep emotional value the tribute holds for him. "We remember Khan sahab almost every day. This edition is especially meaningful as A.R. Rahman is curating a special set. I'm truly looking forward to what promises to be a heartfelt homage," he said.
A.R. Rahman teased the crowd by starting with "Main Shayar Toh Nahin" before transitioning to "Main Agar Kahoon". He continued with his hit song "Pardesiya" and paid tribute to the armed forces with "Sandese Aate Hain". He concluded the night with soulful renditions of "Kal Ho Naa Ho" and "Abhi Mujh Mein Kahin".
The convergence of these four legendary voices made "Haazri" a profound expression of reverence and celebration. The audience in Mumbai was captivated by the echoes of Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan's musical legacy, a testament to the enduring impact of a true maestro.
