Mujtaba Aziz Naza is committed to taking Qawwali, a revered form of Sufi music, to a global audience. The son of legendary Qawwali singer and composer Aziz Naza, he aims to connect with younger generations by presenting the traditional art form in new ways. His ambition is to see Qawwali reach every corner of the world.
Carrying on his father’s immense legacy has been a challenging journey for Mujtaba. His father, Aziz Naza, was celebrated for iconic Qawwalis like ‘Jhoom Barabar Jhoom Sharabi’ and ‘Chadhta Suraj Dheere Dheere’. However, following his father’s passing in 1992, Mujtaba faced over a decade of struggle in Mumbai.
He explained that his father’s name, while a beacon, sometimes created additional difficulties. He felt a hesitation, aware that as Aziz Naza’s son, he was expected to endure waiting and overcome obstacles. Mujtaba, supported by his brother Munir, persevered through these challenges.
Qawwali boasts a rich history, tracing its origins to Amir Khusro. It evolved from devotional Sufi expressions to encompass romantic themes. There was a time when Qawwalis were vital to film narratives, with films often considered incomplete without them.
Mujtaba notes that a lack of new content might be a reason for its diminished connection with modern audiences. He believes the genre needs fresh material. Despite this, he points to contemporary examples like ‘Bhar Do Jholi’ from the film Bajrangi Bhaijaan as proof of Qawwali’s enduring popularity when well-crafted.
He emphasizes that Qawwali, being the essence of Sufi music, still holds significant appeal. It requires dedication to produce and present effectively. The content remains rich and captivating for those who engage with it.
Mujtaba also recently addressed a false rumor about his father’s demise. He received calls from around the globe from people expressing condolences, unaware that Aziz Naza had passed away in 1992. He clarified the misinformation on social media, highlighting the irresponsible spread of fake news.
His ultimate desire is to establish his own distinct identity within the Qawwali tradition. He envisions a future where the genre is widely recognized and cherished by a diverse, global audience.