April 6, 2026, Faheem is everywhere. His soulful voice in the Saiyaara title track has broken records, and last night he won the Best Playback Singer (Male) trophy at the Chetak Screen Awards 2026. People who never heard of him before are now searching “Who is Faheem Abdullah?” and falling in love with his story.
This is not just another singer’s tale. It is a real-life lesson in chasing dreams while staying safe. Let’s dive deep into everything—from his simple beginnings to last night’s big win.
Faheem Abdullah’s Roots in Kashmir: Poetry, Music, and Everyday Life
Faheem Abdullah grew up in Srinagar, Kashmir. He is a singer, songwriter, poet, and even a budding filmmaker. Before Bollywood knew his name, locals called him “The Imaginary Poet.” He dropped that stage name early in 2025 to use his real name.
Kashmir has always given India beautiful music and stories. Faheem and his longtime friend Arslan Nizami created songs that touched hearts in the valley. But they wanted the whole country—and the world—to hear them. Their music stayed inside Kashmir for a long time.
Faheem never forgot his studies. Even while writing songs, he kept appearing for exams. Why? He was not sure music would pay the bills. Director Mohit Suri later shared a touching memory: “When I met Faheem, he kept giving exams again and again. I asked him, ‘What are you giving these exams for?’ He said, ‘I don’t know what is going to happen with my career and I don’t know if I’m going to be successful.’”
Those words show how honest and careful Faheem was. He loved singing, but he also wanted a backup plan.
The Brave Trip to Mumbai: 14 Days That Changed Everything
In mid-2025, Faheem and Arslan decided it was time to try something big. Arslan, who worked as a civil engineer near Leh, quit his steady job. His parents were worried—like most Kashmiri parents who want security for their kids. But Arslan told Faheem, “Our music is not reaching outside. Let’s go and make it happen.”
They saved every rupee and bought tickets to Mumbai. They gave themselves only 14 days. No big contacts, no famous friends—just talent and hope.
On the 13th day, everything changed. They met famous composer Tanishk Bagchi, who was working on Saiyaara, a romantic drama directed by Mohit Suri for Yash Raj Films. Tanishk loved their sound. He asked Faheem and Arslan to create the title track together. Faheem would sing it too.
The song was born from their hearts. It mixes deep feelings, Kashmiri soul, and modern beats. Soon, Saiyaara (the movie) hit theatres in July 2025. It earned over ₹100 crore in its first weekend. The title track became a superhit—number one on charts, loved on Spotify, and even the highest-charting Indian song globally at one point.
Faheem could not believe it. He later said it felt like a “pinch-me” moment. They never dreamed of film music until that call came.
Saiyaara Title Track: How One Song Became an Anthem of 2025
What makes the Saiyaara title track special? It is emotional, fresh, and full of feeling. Faheem’s voice feels warm and real—like a friend sharing secrets. Tanishk Bagchi, Faheem, and Arslan Nizami worked as a team on the music. Irshad Kamil wrote beautiful lyrics.
The movie stars young actors Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda in their breakthrough roles. The story is a sweet love tale that millions connected with. The song played everywhere—weddings, reels, cars, and study rooms.
Faheem’s success opened doors for other Kashmiri artists too. He often says Kashmir has huge hidden talent that the country must discover.
Balancing Exams and Dreams: The Real Struggle Behind the Fame
Even after the Mumbai trip, Faheem kept studying. Right until the last minute before Saiyaara released, he was giving exams. He was scared to leave studies completely. What if the movie flopped? What if people forgot the song?
That careful nature makes his story so inspiring. Many young people today face the same worry: “Should I follow my passion or play it safe?” Faheem showed both can happen. He studied hard and sang harder. When Saiyaara became a hit, he finally knew music was his real path.
Mohit Suri used this exact story while accepting the award for Faheem last night. He told the audience that winning proves “you don’t need to get that job. You are going to be successful in this world.”
Chetak Screen Awards 2026: Faheem Abdullah’s Big Night and Triple Honour for Saiyaara
The Chetak Screen Awards 2026 happened on Sunday evening, April 5, 2026, in Mumbai. Hosted by Alia Bhatt, Zakir Khan, Sunil Grover, and Saurabh Dwivedi, the event is one of India’s most respected film honours. The Indian Express Group runs it. Winners are chosen by an independent group of 53 top filmmakers and artists—not just votes from fans. They look at creativity, hard work, and real impact.
Faheem could not attend, so Mohit Suri collected the Best Playback Singer (Male) trophy for him. The Saiyaara title track also won Best Song. Shreya Ghoshal won Best Playback Singer (Female) for the same track. That is a triple win for the song!
Faheem beat big names like Arijit Singh, Jubin Nautiyal, and others. It was a proud moment for new talent from outside Mumbai.
#ChetakScreenAwards2026 | Saiyaara singer Faheem Abdullah kept giving exams till last minute before film’s success: ‘Don’t know if I’m going to be successful’#ChetakScreenAwards #ScreenAwardshttps://t.co/31dsnDEffI
— SCREEN (@ieEntertainment) April 6, 2026
What Faheem Abdullah’s Win Means for Young Dreamers
This win is bigger than one trophy. It shows that talent from small places can shine. Kashmir’s music is now reaching global charts. Faheem’s journey proves hard work, teamwork, and a little courage can beat fear of failure.
After Saiyaara, Faheem has worked on new songs like “Jalpari,” joined Coke Studio Bharat, and planned live shows. His Spotify listeners jumped hugely. Millions now stream his voice every day.
He stays humble. He still talks about Kashmir’s undiscovered talent and wants to help others like him.
Why This Story Is Special in 2026
On April 6, 2026—just one day after the awards—people are still talking about Faheem. Social media is full of clips from the night. Parents are sharing his story with kids who love singing. Students who feel stuck between studies and passion are finding hope.
Faheem’s life reminds us: It is okay to have a Plan B. But never stop working on Plan A.
Chetak Awards Glory: April 5 Night Recap
Glitzy Mumbai stage on April 5, 2026—Alia Bhatt hosted, stars shone. Faheem's category: tense battle with Jubin, Arijit. Screen Academy's 53 judges picked him for pure emotion in Saiyaara.
Mohit Suri grabbed the trophy, spilling exam tales: "Faheem tested till last minute, doubting stardom." Crowd cheered; social media exploded by dawn April 6. Homebound took Best Film, Ranveer Best Actor—full sweep for quality picks
Faheem later posted: "For Kashmir, for dreamers—keep pushing." This nod validates indie souls in glossy Bollywood.
Other Articles to Read:
- Tracker Season 3 Episode — ‘No Good Deed’ Ending Breakdown
- Trisha Shares Mysterious Instagram Story as Vijay Dating Rumours Keep Growing
- Best Shows to Stream Now: Sydney Sweeney, Jonah Hill Picks
- Samay Raina Returns To YouTube First Look Of Still Alive Special Out Now
- Juan Soto Leaves Field With Calf Issue: What This Means for the Mets Season
- Enhypen Star Heeseung’s Exit: The Real Reason Behind This Big Decision
- Hardik Pandya’s T20 World Cup Moments With Mahieka Sharma Win Hearts
