From Jagrans to Indian Idol: Salman Ali's Journey of Grit and Musical Triumph

• Salman Ali, born in Haryana's Mewat region, began singing at jagrans and local events to support his family due to financial struggles.
• Music was deeply ingrained in his family; his grandfather, Abdul Shakool, was a ghazal singer with All India Radio.
• He gained national recognition as the first runner-up in Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Little Champs in 2011, receiving a cash award of Rs 21 lakh from the Haryana government.
• In 2018, Salman Ali won Indian Idol Season 10, impressing judges Neha Kakkar, Vishal Dadlani, and Anu Malik with his soulful performances.
• Influenced by Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Salman has also lent his voice to the title track of "Chandragupta Maurya" and the promotional song "Sab Badhiya Hai" from "Sui Dhaaga".

Why It Matters: Salman Ali's journey from singing at jagrans for survival to winning Indian Idol is a testament to his perseverance.