The bustling Jio World Garden in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex became a haven of sound and soul as the third edition of Haazri 2025, a celebration of the eternal legacy of Padma Vibhushan Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, took place on Thursday. It was a night of unforgettable performances, Oscar-winning maestro A.R. Rahman cemented his love for his guru and paid homage to him in the breathtaking renditions of his Sufi masterpieces that included Khwaja Mere Khwaja, Kun Faya Kun, and Maula. Rahman’s performance, full of devotion, established the tone for an evening of profound musical resonance.
Adding to the ambiance, legendary vocalist Hariharan serenaded with his lustrous voice, and Ustad ji’s musical family — sons Murtuza, Qadir, Rabbani, Hasan Mustafa Khan, and grandsons Faiz and Zain Mustafa Khan — mesmerised the audience with the performance of classics like Aao Balma, Piya Haji Ali and Noor-Un-Ala. They preserved the maestro’s indelible contributions to Indian classical music and the Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana.
In a special moment, Bollywood legend and classical dancer Hema Malini received the 3rd Padma Vibhushan Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan Award. Defending the collaborative note, and explaining the honor, the ministry statement said: “Honoured by Ashish Shelar, Hon. Cabinet Minister of IT and Cultural Affairs, the honour witnessed the likes of A.R. Rahman, Hariharan and the Khan family known for its contributions towards the arts and culture of the country.” The event also marked the presence of Anjali Tendulkar, Sara Tendulkar, Hansal Mehta and actors Sharad Kelkar, Kirti Kelkar, Aahana Kumra, etc.
Haazri 2025 was organised by NR Talent and Event Management and was a memorable cocktail of music, legacy and stardom. Set against the glow of the skies, the event was a fitting farewell to Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, mentor to legends like A.R. Rahman and Asha Bhosle. As warm melodies filled the air, the crowd was a living proof of how music can transcend time and connect generations.