In an industry where authenticity is often the biggest differentiator, Bismil has carved a space that is entirely his own. Blending the timeless soul of Sufi music with a fresh, contemporary sensibility, the Delhi-born singer-songwriter has become one of the most exciting voices on the live music circuit. Classically trained from a young age, he has won hearts with his stirring renditions of iconic qawwalis and soulful originals, while his hugely popular Bismil Ki Mehfil concerts have turned into a phenomenon for music lovers across the world. Whether he is reimagining a beloved classic or unveiling a new composition, Bismil’s voice carries warmth, emotion and an effortless honesty that lingers long after the final note. As his fan base continues to grow, so does his musical canvas, but his passion for meaningful storytelling remains unchanged. We caught up with the singer to talk about his journey, inspirations and what keeps his music so deeply connected to people.
Tell us about your background. From where did you learn music?
I feel very fortunate to come from a family of musicians. My father Ustad Ghulam Sarwar is a tabla exponent. My grandfather, Ustad Ghulam Sabir Qadri, was a sarangi player. My maternal grandfather, Ustad Mohammad Ahmed Khan, was a sitar player. My great-grandfather, Padma Bhushan Ustad Sabri Khan, was also my guru. I began learning and singing at the age of five and have trained under several maestros, including Ustad Mohsin Ali Khan, a sitarist, and Ustad Iqbal Ahmed Khan, a Hindustani classical vocalist. I continue to learn today under my current guru, Ustad Aftab Ahmed Khan of the Rampur Gharana. My journey with music started at five, and it continues to this day. I’ve also learned immensely by listening deeply to Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. I didn’t train with him directly, but I’ve learned so much just from listening closely to his style, his phrasing, and his emotion. And I owe this to all my Ustads and to my own hard work. That’s why today people appreciate me so much, both in India and around the world.
How have live shows helped you in your career?
Live shows have helped me immensely in my career. I’ve been performing on stage for 15 years now. And the experience and exposure I’ve gained from live shows is truly invaluable to me. In today’s world, where everyone is presenting themselves in new ways, I’ve been practicing and honing my craft for over15 years. So yeah, live shows are a huge part of my musical journey, and I’d give most of the credit to them
What’s the one thing you feel you haven’t done yet that you’d want to do more?
There are many things I want to achieve through my music, and I’m working towards them every single day. I’m constantly practising and exploring new ideas, thinking about how I can bring my own perspective and blend different genres, like Techno, House and Jazz with qawwali. I’m deep in that creative process right now. I can’t reveal too much just yet, because it’s still a work in progress, but I’m really excited about what’s coming next. Hopefully, you’ll hear it soon.
Tell us about the international and Indian collabs you’d like to do?
As an artiste standing at the crossroads of dreams and devotion, I carry a bucket list of voices that have shaped my soul. At home, collaborating with Arijit Singh, A.R. Rahman, and bringing Gulzar saab’s words to life feels like touching the very heartbeat of poetry. A duet with Shreya Ghoshal would be a masterclass in grace and melody. Beyond India, the horizon widens: learning from John Mayer’s finesse, Jacob Collier’s fearless musical architecture, Bruno Mars’s showmanship, and someday sharing a stage with Adele, that’s a dream woven with awe and longing. Each name is a lesson, a challenge, and a north star.
Apart from music, what’s the one thing that you’re passionate about?
Exploring the world through its cuisines and cultures is a beautiful companion to a life in music. The way you’re drawn to new flavours, streets, and stories says a lot about your curiosity and openness. It’s a passion that keeps inspiring you, quietly widening your sense of rhythm, taste,
and perspective.
Do you still feel nervous before the start of a show?
I used to feel nervous before every show. I think that’s natural when you truly care about what you’re about to do. But over the years, that nervousness has transformed into excitement. Now, more than anything, I crave the love and energy of the audience. The moment I step on stage and see people who have taken out time from their lives to come and listen to my music, I feel nothing but immense gratitude. Every show is a blessing, and I just can’t wait to connect with them through my songs.
Talk to us about your pre-show routine. Are you superstitious about something?
I’m not superstitious, but I do have a pre-show routine that grounds me:
I listen to the tanpura, slip into a little riyaz, and then right before I step out, I say a quiet prayer. I thank God for whatever he’s given me, and I promise myself I’ll honour it on stage. I give my very best, so the people who waited feel seen, valued, and glad they came and the MOST important to have a black coffee. That’s my ritual, simple and steady.
Name a singer who most inspired you in your journey.
Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan is the legend who first sparked my desire to sing qawwali. I’m deeply influenced by him, and everything I’ve learned traces back in some way to my Ustads. All the gurus who’ve guided me through the years. And even now, Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan saab remains a constant source of inspiration, shaping how I feel and sing. One recent singer whose journey has truly inspired me is Arijit Singh. What I admire most is how grounded he has stayed despite such massive success. His dedication, consistency, and the emotion he brings to every song motivate me to work on my own craft every day. I’m genuinely proud to see an artiste like him represent Indian music with such heart and excellence.
What’s the one thing you’re the proudest about achieving?
The one thing I’m most proud of is that I’ve lived every step of my journey on my own terms. Not many people stood by me, but my gurus, my father, and my family did and I’m proud of all we’ve done together. Over the last fifteen, sixteen years, I’ve seen where I’ve come from. I remember the days when I was struggling, hustling and counting every rupee. I’ve built this journey piece by piece. And yeah, I’m honestly very proud of myself.
Where do you see yourself in the coming years?
I see myself growing into the kind of artiste who earns that word “legend” through discipline and depth. I’m focused on getting better every day, stretching my craft and preparing for the kind of collaborations that expand my sound. I want to work with international artistes, across genres, and carry Sufi music and qawwali to stages around the world. That’s the path I see and I’m committed to.
What’s the one thing that you’d like to tell your fans through this interview?
Through this interview, I want to tell everyone to Never Give Up. If you’re not there today, keep going, keep your head down, stay consistent, and let your work speak for you. People might try to pull you down, but don’t lose heart. Polish your craft with sincerity. Let your work become your voice. Whatever you do, do it with all your heart, all your dedication, and complete honesty. Your art will stand by you, and someday, it will speak to millions. You are a special creation by God. And He will help you realise your dreams.
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