Tears of a legend: when Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan's voice fell silent

Mumbai (The Uttam Hindu) : Renowned singer Nusrat Fateh Ali, with his melodious and Sufi-esque voice, had songs that captured people's hearts. "Tumhe Dil Lagi Bhool Jaani Pedgi," "Nee Main Jaana Jogi De Naal," "Sanson Ki Mala Pe Simru," and "Dil Pardesi Ho Gaya" are among his songs that have been appreciated even abroad.

In Japan, he is known as the "Singing Buddha," and in America, he is known as the "Voice of Heaven." His magical voice also left its mark on Hindi cinema, and such that a song released in 2000 still captures the deep pain hidden within a father-daughter relationship.

We're talking about the 2000 film "Dhadkan." Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan sang the song "Dulhe Ka Sehra Suhana Lagta Hai," which he had set a condition for. However, the Sufi singer himself found it difficult to sing. Tears welled up in his eyes and he was speechless. The makers wanted a song for the film that would depict the touching relationship between a father and daughter, yet with lyrics that would melt hearts.

Music director duo Nadeem and Shravan were already big fans of Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and wanted him to sing in the film. However, Nusrat's condition was that he would first listen to the lyrics and only then would he like them. The Sufi singer liked the lyrics and decided to sing.

Now came recording time. The music and rhythm were ready, and half the song was recorded. But as soon as the line "Main teri baahon ke jhule mein pali babul" came, her throat choked, and she couldn't produce a sound. She tried again, and tears welled up. She tried again, and failed. This happened nearly 150 times, all because of just one line.

This line constantly reminded Nusrat Fateh Ali of his daughters, and it was difficult for him to utter the words. However, after 150 retakes while feverish, he finally sang the song. He also said that if he couldn't complete it today while feverish, he would never be able to. This song from the film "Dhadkan" still strikes a chord with people. Each line of the song, and Nusrat's voice, poignantly conveyed the pain of separation between a father and daughter.