Zeba Naseem/Mumbai
When singing reality shows began transforming the Indian music scene in the early 2000s, several singers rose to fame almost overnight. While some went on to build enduring careers, others gradually faded from the spotlight after winning the hearts of millions.
Kashmiri singer Qazi Tauqeer belongs to the former era of reality television and remains instantly recognisable to a generation that grew up in the 1990s and early 2000s. For many school and college students of that time, his song Yeh Pal became an anthem that captured the emotions of an entire generation.
Nearly two decades after winning the Fame Gurukul show in 2005, the 40-year-old Srinagar singer entered as one of 16 original housemates when the season premiered on September 6, 2026, hosted by Salman Khan on Colors TV and JioHotstar.
Qazi’s a̶ ̶r̶o̶c̶k̶s̶t̶a̶r̶ an entertainer baaaby 😂
— JioHotstar Reality (@HotstarReality) September 9, 2026
Dekhiye #BiggBoss20 ka naya episode, har roz raat 9 baje #JioHotstar par aur 10:30 baje #Colors par.#BiggBoss20 #BiggBossOnJioHotstar pic.twitter.com/VqysMzZrtX
His humorous lines like claiming he 'was a scientist when I was a kid' and larger-than-life energy have fans laughing and debating, while early clashes with rapper Yung DSA and actress Kanika Mann add tension.
Whether seen as a genuine entertainer or over-the-top, Qazi's presence has made the show feel like his personal stage from day two.
The new season premiered on Sunday, September 6, with Bollywood actor Salman Khan returning as host. The season carries the theme ‘Extra Jeevan Daan’ and features personalities from different fields.
“Contestant Number 3 – Qazi Touqeer! The voice behind the iconic ‘Afghan Jalebi’. What a voice! What an entry!” the show announced while introducing him.
Bigg Boss ne mere sare test kiye hai mai normal hu , I am rockstar babyy 😭😭#BiggBoss20• #Qazi • #ArishfaKhan pic.twitter.com/iDg48CzKFp
— Veeru (@realveeru_) September 8, 2026
For Qazi Touqeer, the Bigg Boss house marks a significant return to mainstream television after nearly 20 years. It also offers him an opportunity to reconnect with audiences across the country and introduce his personality and artistry to a younger generation.
His return has been followed with particular interest in Kashmir, where his journey from a young singer in Srinagar to a national reality-show winner remains a source of pride for many.
From Srinagar to Fame Gurukul
Born in Srinagar, Qazi Tauqeer grew up surrounded by Kashmir’s rich cultural traditions and a deep appreciation for music. His father, M.A. Qazi, was a Sufi saint and lawyer who nurtured in him a strong love for art and spirituality. Music also ran in the family; his uncle, Qazi Rafi, was a well-known singer in Kashmir.
Qazi developed an interest in singing at an early age. He sought to blend traditional music with a contemporary style, a combination that eventually became part of his distinctive identity. His long hair and unconventional appearance further set him apart from other aspiring singers even before he became a household name.
Fame Gurukul Changed His Life
In 2005, Qazi Taqueer auditioned for Sony Entertainment Television’s Fame Gurukul, one of India’s early major singing reality shows.
The competition brought together talented singers from across the country, including Arijit Singh, who would later emerge as one of Bollywood’s most celebrated playback singers. Roop Rekha Banerjee was another prominent contestant.
Qazi’s powerful voice, emotional singing style and ability to connect with viewers quickly made him a favourite. He eventually won the Fame Gurukul title alongside Roop Rekha Banerjee, turning him into a household name almost overnight.
From Srinagar to the Bigg Boss 20 house!
— Fatima Dar (@FatimaDar_jk) September 7, 2026
Nearly two decades after winning Fame Gurukul, Kashmiri singer Qazi Touqeer is back in the national spotlight.#Kashmir #KashmirTalent #BadaltaKashmir #NayaKashmir pic.twitter.com/usLNvEBEaz
His victory was significant not merely because he won a reality show, but because it established him as a recognised face in the national music industry. His soulful voice, versatility and distinctive personality earned him a devoted following.
His success in a competition that also featured singers such as Arijit Singh continues to be remembered and debated by music enthusiasts.
After Fame Gurukul, expectations were high for Qazi Tauqir. He explored opportunities in playback singing and acting and aspired to establish himself in Bollywood.
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One notable association with his later artistic journey is the popular song Afghan Jalebi from the 2015 film Phantom. His return to the national television spotlight through Bigg Boss 20, nearly two decades after his breakthrough, represents another chapter in the journey of a singer whose distinctive voice and personality remain etched in the memories of an entire generation.
