Maestro Shaukat Ali on Rouhan and Aman ki Asha

“Some spirits are directly sent by God and they astonish you – Rouhan is one of those spirits. In my family, I’ve seen that most of the kids are as talented as him. But he has been blessed with this chance and this platform of Chote Ustaad that gave him an opportunity to showcase his ability and skill. In the beginning, the media wasn’t as strong as it is now, and lots of talent was washed away due to the lack of avenues.

“Rouhan was seven years old when he started persuading me to become his mentor. I used to laugh it off saying, you are my son how can I become your ustaad? But today I feel it was this persistence that has paid off. I am really proud of him though he has burdened me with more responsibilities. I keeping giving him tips; he does listen and he should keep them in mind. He is an obedient student as is his father who has made him what he is today, but there is still a long way to go…

“All my life I have worked for Aman ki Asha and for peace between the two countries (India and Pakistan). I sang and wrote so many songs for this purpose and I even took so many delegations (to India) to take the mission forward. Recently I along with my son Mohsin was invited to Kapurthala (in Indian Punjab) by the Deputy Commissioner and in the audiences were men from the armed forces and their own artistes. There I sang ‘Waghe Diye Sarhade’ which moved the people across the border. Currently I’m working with Fakar Zaman’s organisation which is also aman ki asha.

“Music knows no boundaries and for years artistes have been working for this cause. I really salute the organisations that have come all out to support it like the Jang Group and Times of India group and Star Plus group. Even Rahat Fateh Ali Kham and Sonu Nigam should be appreciated who gave their hundred percent to the cause in these times of hostility.”

— As told to Naila Inayat