Teachers' Day: Sonu Nigam, Shaan, other musicians talk about greatest mentors

Shaan

Teacher: Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan
He has not only been my music teacher but also a guide. He taught me how to lead my life, consider family my priority and not let external factors disturb inner peace.

Kailash Kher

Teacher: Failures
I never received formal training in music. My life and failures have been my greatest teachers. Whenever I fell, I picked myself up and strived again. I am glad I faced hardships. They made me stronger.

Kavita Seth

Teacher: KK Seth
Life has been a teacher, but KK Seth (musician and late husband) was my mentor and guru. He helped me believe in my dreams, and taught me how to trust myself.

Sonu Nigam

Teacher: Mohammed Rafi
Rafi saab is my first inspiration in music. I aspired to be as versatile as him. His ease with genres and simplicity in demeanour touched me. I'm glad I never met him in person. His presence, spiritually in my imagination, offers me a sense of protection.

Talat Aziz

Teacher: Mehdi Hassan
He was my greatest teacher. I am proud to be his shagird. I am also grateful to Ustad Samad Khan and Ustad Faiyaz Ahmed Khan.

Ehsaan Noorani

Teacher: Bismark Rodriguez
He is my teacher and benefactor.

Sukhwinder Singh

Teacher: Good music
Listening to good music has taught me all I know today.