The Unexpected Journey of Amaan Haider Zaidi
From a reluctant poet reciting Urdu poems on his office bus in the UAE to an acclaimed lyricist launching his first ghazal album, Amaan Haider Zaidi’s life journey seems like the script of a Bollywood classic. This remarkable transformation from a quiet observer of life to a vibrant creator of music has truly captured the imagination of many.
Meeting the Right People at the Right Time
Haider’s poetry career began to flourish in 2014 after a personal setback prompted him to explore his feelings through writing. Initially working at RAK Bank, Haider faced a crisis that led him to seek guidance from a psychiatrist. During this challenging period, he began to jot down his thoughts, which soon blossomed into poetry. What started as a personal release became a way to resonate with his colleagues and friends, culminating in a powerful wave of appreciation from various quarters, including international cricketers and prominent film figures.
A Serendipitous Encounter with Shaan
One of the pivotal moments in Haider’s journey came during the Dubai Expo, where he worked at the Indian Pavilion. It was here that he met the celebrated singer Shaan, whose music had long inspired him. With charisma and humility, Haider presented Shaan with a copy of his poetry book, Apni Amaan Main Rekhna. To Haider’s amazement, Shaan called him a year later to express interest in adapting six of his poems into ghazals for an album.
“I could not believe Shaan wanted me to be his lyricist,” Haider reflected. The singer appreciated the simplicity of Haider’s writing, which resonated with both his artistic vision and personal character. This partnership would soon lead to a major milestone for Haider.
The Launch of Ghazal Ho Gayi
On June 4, Haider’s dream materialized as Ghazal Ho Gayi, the album featuring six of his ghazals, was launched by Saregama, India’s oldest music label, at Shaan’s residence in Mumbai. The excitement doesn’t stop there; the songs will be available on platforms like YouTube and Spotify, reaching out to a global audience starting June 6—just in time for Eid celebrations.
Haider expressed the surreal nature of this experience, reflecting on how from humble beginnings in a small village in Uttar Pradesh, India, he has reached this global stage: “This is a dream for me. I cannot believe this is happening in my life.”
The Blessings of Family and Faith
As he navigates this new chapter, Haider attributes his success to the unwavering support of his parents and sister, as well as their collective prayers. The emotional and spiritual grounding provided by his family has played a vital role in shaping his journey. Haider’s story is a reminder of how personal challenges can catalyze creativity and transformation.
Early Successes and Highlights
For a poet who has captivated audiences across borders—from symposiums in the US, UK, and Australia to the UAE—Haider’s first experience of reciting poetry in a significant setting remains etched in his memory. “I was on a pilgrimage, at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, where I had the opportunity to recite my poems during an event for Prophet Muhammad’s birthday,” he recalled, a moment that underscored his path and purpose.
Bridging Cultures Through Poetry
The music and poetry created through Haider’s partnership with Shaan not only celebrate personal expression but also serve as a bridge connecting diverse cultural narratives. As the ghazals reach audiences worldwide, they reflect the universal themes of love, longing, and human experience, resonating with listeners regardless of their backgrounds.
In this ongoing journey, the synergy between Haider’s lyrical talents and Shaan’s musical prowess offers a unique cultural tapestry that enhances the rich tradition of Indian music and poetry. Haider’s story reminds us of the endless possibilities life presents, illustrating how passion, resilience, and the right connections can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
