Mumbai, July 30 — Singer-composer Salim Merchant on Thursday paid a warm tribute to long-time friend and collaborator Sonu Nigam on the occasion of the singer’s birthday, celebrating a relationship built on mutual respect, affection and shared musical journeys.

Taking to Instagram, Merchant posted a series of videos and photographs capturing moments from their friendship. One clip showed the two working out together at a gym, while a candid selfie featured Nigam with his arm around Merchant as both smiled at the camera. Another image captured Nigam singing while Merchant accompanied him on the piano. In the caption, Merchant simply wrote: “Happy birthday @sonunigamofficial here’s to our friendship & brotherhood.”

The post underscored a bond that has endured for years beyond professional collaborations. Merchant described their connection as one rooted in love, respect and a sense of brotherhood that extends well outside the recording studio.

Over the years the two musicians have delivered several memorable tracks together. Among the most widely remembered is the soulful romantic number “Shukran Allah” from the 2009 film Kurbaan. Their easy chemistry, both on and off stage, has often been noted by industry colleagues and listeners alike.

Sonu Nigam turned a year older on July 30 and received an outpouring of birthday wishes from friends and fellow artists across the entertainment industry. On the professional front, the singer has recently reunited with Oscar-winning composer A.R. Rahman for a new song in the upcoming film Batwara 1947. The romantic track “Oh Tabassum,” with lyrics by Javed Akhtar, marks another collaboration between the two.

Announcing the song on social media, Rahman wrote: “Thrilled to have #Sonunigam back in our studios to sing #OhTabassum melody from the movie #Batwara1947 Written by @Javedakhtarjadu ..Directed by @RajSantoshi and produced by @AKPPL_Official #Aamirkhan ..Bro..how can you sound so Romantic?”

Formerly titled Lahore 1947, the film features Sunny Deol, Preity Zinta, Ali Fazal and Shabana Azmi in key roles. Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, Batwara 1947 is scheduled for theatrical release on August 14, 2026, coinciding with the Independence Day weekend.

Merchant’s birthday message arrives at a moment when Nigam continues to balance live performances, studio work and selective film assignments. The public display of their long-standing friendship serves as a reminder of the personal relationships that often underpin creative partnerships in the Indian music industry. By sharing both recent and archival images, Merchant offered fans a glimpse into a camaraderie that has remained consistent through changing professional phases.

As Nigam embarks on another year, the combined notes of personal goodwill from Merchant and fresh creative synergy with Rahman highlight the dual strands of friendship and artistry that continue to define his career.