Qazi Touqeer is back in the reality-TV spotlight. Nearly two decades after winning the popular singing reality show Fame Gurukul, the singer and performer has entered Salman Khan-hosted Bigg Boss 20, bringing a strong dose of nostalgia for viewers who remember his rise to fame in the mid-2000s.
Qazi, who hails from Srinagar, became a household name after winning Fame Gurukul in 2005. Now, years after his first major reality-show victory, he is ready to introduce a new generation of viewers to his personality inside the Bigg Boss house.
Who Is Qazi Touqeer?
Qazi Touqeer is a singer, performer and actor from Srinagar, Kashmir. He first rose to national prominence through Fame Gurukul, the 2005 music reality show that became one of the most talked-about singing competitions of its time.
Qazi’s distinctive personality and performances helped him connect with audiences, eventually making him one of the show’s winners alongside Ruprekha Banerjee. Following their victory, the duo also released music together, including the album Yeh Pal.
How Did Qazi Touqeer Become Famous?
Qazi’s big breakthrough came in 2005 with Fame Gurukul. The show brought together aspiring singers competing for a place in the music industry, and Qazi quickly emerged as one of its most recognisable contestants. His popularity among viewers eventually helped him win the competition.
The victory changed his life almost overnight and established him as a known face in Indian television. More than 20 years later, his return to reality television has naturally sparked nostalgia among fans who remember his Fame Gurukul days.
Did Qazi Touqeer And Arijit Singh Compete On Fame Gurukul?
Yes. One of the most interesting chapters in Qazi’s Fame Gurukul journey is his connection with Arijit Singh. Arijit also participated in the show, although Qazi went on to become one of its winners. While Qazi’s reality-show journey made him famous at the time, Arijit would eventually become one of India’s most successful playback singers.
The two have nevertheless maintained a friendship. Qazi reportedly visited Arijit’s hometown in West Bengal in 2026 and shared a video of the two spending time together, bringing their long-standing connection back into the spotlight.
Has Qazi Touqeer Appeared On Other Reality Shows?
Fame Gurukul was not Qazi’s only reality-TV appearance. After his victory, he participated in Sarkaar Ki Duniya, a survival-based reality show hosted by actor Ashutosh Rana. Unlike Fame Gurukul, Qazi did not win the survival reality series. His Bigg Boss 20 entry therefore marks another return to the reality-show format after a long gap.
Did Qazi Touqeer Act With Katrina Kaif?
Yes. Qazi also has a Katrina Kaif connection. He appeared in the 2015 film Phantom, which starred Saif Ali Khan and Katrina Kaif. Qazi was seen in the popular Afghan Jalebi song, giving him an opportunity to appear alongside Katrina on screen.
What Is Qazi Touqeer’s Family Background?
Qazi comes from Srinagar and has a family connection to the arts. According to reports, his father was previously a lawyer before becoming associated with a Sufi spiritual life, while his mother worked as a teacher. His uncle, Qazi Rafi, has also been known as a Kashmiri singer.
Qazi Touqeer In Bigg Boss 20: What Can Fans Expect?
Qazi entered the Bigg Boss 20 house on September 6, 2026, as part of Salman Khan’s latest season. During his entry, he performed for Salman and even sang Afghan Jalebi, with Salman praising his voice.
Inside the Bigg Boss house, Qazi will have to rely on his personality, relationships, patience and ability to handle the show’s unpredictable environment.
