For renowned singer Javed Ali, the holy month of Ramzan holds a special place in his heart, not just spiritually, but also artistically. Known for his soulful and melodious voice, Ali feels that fasting during this time brings a unique freshness to his voice and helps him connect deeply with his music.
A Soulful Connection with Music
The 42-year-old singer shares that his voice sounds different when he’s fasting. “I always tell people, ‘Record me more during Ramzan,’” he says with a smile. According to Javed, fasting creates a unique connection between his soul and his voice. “The texture of the voice changes after you eat. But when you fast, there’s something soulful about it. My work gets better during Ramzan. I’ve noticed a refreshing quality in my voice during this time,” he explains.
It’s no surprise that some of his most popular songs were recorded while he was fasting. Javed recalls that he recorded hit tracks like the title song of Ishaqzaade (2012), “Tu Jo Mila” from Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), and “Kuch Nahi” from Tubelight (2017) while observing roza. He adds, “And just look at the impact these songs have had!”
The Challenge of Fasting on the Go
Javed Ali, who is deeply spiritual, makes it a point to observe roza, even when he’s traveling. While he admits that it can be challenging, he manages to keep up his fasting routine. “When you eat after iftar, your energy levels drop, but you learn to manage it. It’s all part of the experience,” he says.
For Javed, Ramzan isn’t just about fasting; it’s also about the power of control and spiritual growth. “Ramzan is hard to describe in words,” he says. “Many think fasting means we’re hungry all day, but it’s not about hunger. In fact, we gain strength and control. The experience of fasting and breaking the fast with family and friends, sharing delicious food during iftar, is something I truly cherish.”
A Wish for Balance: Faith and Work
Javed also shares his personal wish during Ramzan. “I’ve prayed to the Almighty that I be able to keep my roza, perform my prayers, and continue working. And it’s all thanks to Allah’s grace that I’m able to do all of these things,” he says with gratitude.
Javed Ali On Celebrating Ramzan in Mumbai
Although Javed’s roots are in Delhi, and his parents come from Shahpur in Muzaffarpur, Uttar Pradesh, he now feels at home in Mumbai. “I’ve fallen in love with Mumbai,” he says. “There’s a spiritual atmosphere here that I can’t find anywhere else. I live in Goregaon, where I can hear the azaan from the nearby mosques. The local food markets (khau-galis) offer a variety of foods, and the place is always buzzing with life.”
For Javed, the vibe of Mumbai, especially during Ramzan, adds to the beauty of the holy month. With a deep connection to his faith and a genuine love for his work, Javed Ali continues to be inspired by Ramzan, both in his music and in his everyday life.
