Yesterday, the world woke up to the heartbreaking news of Wajid Khan’s demise, leaving his fans, family and friends shocked. Actors, singers, music composers, filmmakers from Bollywood took to their social media and mourned his death. Sonu Nigam, who knew Wajid Khan for over 29 years, wrote a heartfelt eulogy for his dear friend remembering the wonderful moments they shared- right from visiting him during Ramzaan to being in touch while he was in the hospital.
Sonu Nigam wrote a eulogy in Mid-Day, remembering the initial days when he first came to Mumbai and would sit outside Wajid Khan’s studio while the composer was inside working with his father. Sonu Nigam and Wajid Khan bonded over their mutual love for music and musical instruments. “He used to joke, 'Sonu bhai ka haath harmonium pe dekh ke main hil gaya' because I am quick with the keys.” Sonu Nigam then opened up about the time when Wajid Khan fell ill and went through a kidney transplant.
“Last year, we worked on a romantic duet for a movie that was eventually postponed. After that, Wajid suddenly fell ill. He had diabetes, and had to undergo a kidney transplant. I would often visit him. One day, he expressed a desire to go out as he had been indoors for long. So, I took him on a drive. Next time, I took him home and we sat on the terrace, sipping chai. He kept on saying, 'Bhaijaan, kitna mazaa aa raha hai. I am stepping out after so long,” he wrote.
He further added that they were like brothers and would visit Wajid’s home during Ramzaan. “His mother would say, 'Sonu aa raha hai? Let me make haleem.' He was a foodie and would often send me home-cooked khichda. Not many know his [then to-be] wife and he had abruptly called off their wedding, days before the celebration. I played the mediator between them.”
Sonu Nigam then shared about the last few months, when Wajid Khan’s condition worsened, and said that they were in touch. They would chat over WhatsApp as Wajid couldn’t speak due to the tube put down his windpipe. He texted Wajid on Eid wishing him, but did not get a reply, after which his wife informed him about Coronavirus diagnosis. Five days later, he was gone. ALSO READ: Late Wajid Khan's Mother Tests Positive For COVID-19 After Composer's BMC Death Certificate Cites Coronavirus As Reason Of Demise - Reports
“I would say he didn't get his due. Wajid was a sensitive soul who will be missed. Of the songs we worked on, Tumko na bhool payenge was my favourite. I will always remember him by that song,” wrote Sonu Nigam.
Image Source: Instagram/wajidkhan_live