Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Aug 3: Known for discovering voices that resonate across generations, director Mohit Suri has introduced a new talent to the industry with the viral success of Saiyaara’s title track — singer Faheem.

Suri, who helped launch Arijit Singh’s career with Aashiqui 2, chose to break away from familiar territory this time. Speaking to NDTV, the filmmaker revealed why he didn’t go with Arijit for the new track. “Arijit represents a cinema that I did 14 years ago. I love Arijit, and I did use him in one song. But when I was looking for Arijit... I love KK sir, but that wasn't Emraan Hashmi for me in those early films. Then I found Arijit. So only when you seek, shall you find the answer.”

Faheem’s voice, he said, was exactly what he needed for the character Ahaan. “I'm constantly looking for new voices. I thought Faheem was the voice I wanted. You need to keep searching because that’s what keeps you relevant. Otherwise, you're just living off yesterday's success.”

Suri, known for taking creative risks, added that working with new talent keeps the creative spark alive. “You have to give yourself room to fail. Failing with someone established is far scarier — it means your fundamentals have changed. But failing with someone new? That’s not that bad. At least you tried something different.”

Echoing his thoughts, YRF CEO Akshaye Widhani said, “Even the success you get with someone new is so much more.”

With Faheem’s debut already striking a chord with listeners, Suri seems to have struck gold yet again.