A star is born

Aakanksha N Bhardwaj

His 10-year-long struggle has finally come to an end, and how. Rehmat Ali, 31, who belongs to an economically poor family, has made his way to the singing reality show Rising Star and now is in the top 14.

Bollywood diva Rekha, singer Diljit Dosanjh, and music director Shankar Mahadevan, and other Bollywood legends, who appear on the show, are all praise for this young talented man from Phillaur, Punjab.

Ali has made a special position in the show because of his humble background and mind-blowing singing.

“I am so thankful to Rising Star for giving me the opportunity to finally portray my singing skills in front of the world,” says Ali.

Struggle & beyond

Ali’s mother used to perform by going to people’s home to celebrate their happiness but she herself always remained grief-stricken. Belonging to a community, which is conventionally into singing and performing, it was her routine to sing congratulatory songs and accept money or eatables that people would give.

Ali’s mother Rasika says now others visit her and congratulate her because of her son’s success. She says her life has changed.

“All my life, I had not gone even outside Phillaur, and now because of my son, I am there in Mumbai, resting and living in hotels and meeting big celebrities,” she says.

Not only Rehmat, but his mother also got a chance to showcase her singing talent on National TV when Diljit Dosanjh, in one of the episodes, urged her to sing.

Life is a new experience

Ali, before he started doing qawwali shows in Punjab, tried various petty jobs. He worked as a tailor and was also into car washing jobs for some time to earn his living. He has a wife and four children.

When asked what has changed in his life, Rehmat quickly replies, “Sabse pehle toh aapka call aaya, yahi badi baat hai (I have got a call from The Tribune, it is a big thing).

“I am now getting lots of attention. People like me; they send me friend requests and tell me how much they love me and my singing. All thanks to Rising Star!” the upcoming star signs off as he heads for his practice.