How Mujtaba Aziz Naza is Reviving Qawwali for Today's Youth

Mujtaba Aziz Naza, a prominent Qawwali artist, is on a mission to modernize this traditional art form for contemporary audiences. In a recent appearance on the Request Wala Show, he discussed his efforts to merge Qawwali with genres like rap and Afrobeat, aiming to attract younger listeners. Naza also reflected on his collaborations with filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and shared insights into his upcoming projects, including an EP and international collaborations. His dedication to preserving his family's musical heritage while innovating for the future makes his journey a fascinating exploration of cultural evolution.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 25, 2026, 21:55 IST

Mujtaba Aziz Naza's Mission to Modernize Qawwali

Qawwali musician Mujtaba Aziz Naza recently joined the Request Wala Show to share his dedication to keeping the traditional art of Qawwali alive for contemporary audiences. Coming from a lineage rich in musical heritage, Naza aims to connect the 750-year-old Sufi traditions with modern musical influences. By integrating innovative sounds, lyrics, and production methods, he seeks to engage a younger audience that appreciates the profound narratives and emotional depth of Qawwali.

A key aspect of Naza's recent endeavors involves merging traditional Qawwali with contemporary genres such as rap and Afrobeat. He proudly mentioned his collaboration with rapper Farhan Khan on the track 'Masoom,' which he considers a significant milestone in his career. Naza stressed that Qawwali's essence lies in delivering a message or divine inspiration, and he strives to preserve that spiritual core while exploring new, genre-blending arrangements that appeal to modern listeners.

Honoring Musical Heritage and Cinematic Collaborations

Reflecting on his journey, Naza recounted his early entry into the music scene, releasing his first professional album at just 12 years old. He also spoke about his enduring partnership with filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali, which began with the 2007 film 'Saawariya.' Naza elaborated on the collaborative efforts behind the film's music, highlighting how he and fellow independent artists crafted the Qawwali segments. This collaboration continued with later films like 'Bajirao Mastani' and 'Padmaavat,' where he played a crucial role in shaping the unique musical character through spontaneous creative sessions.

Upcoming Projects and Global Aspirations

As he looks to the future, Naza is excited about several new projects, including an upcoming EP featuring a blend of romantic songs and ghazals, with lyrics written by his mother. He is also engaged in an international collaboration with artists like Anupam Shobhakar, Vikram Ghosh, and Selvaganesh, aiming to infuse a global perspective into world music. Additionally, Naza is committed to his most personal project: reviving his father's lesser-known Qawwali compositions for a new generation, ensuring that his family's musical legacy continues to flourish in today's world.