From the adrenaline-pumping Chak De! India to the soul-stirring Shukran Allah, the musical journey of Salim-Sulaiman has left an indelible mark on Indian and global audiences alike. Known for their emotionally rich compositions and genre-defying creativity, this dynamic sibling duo has redefined the music of modern India.
In 2025, fans are in for a treat as the duo returns to the live stage with their powerful concert “Chak De India – Salim-Sulaiman Live” in Mumbai. Their music isn’t just a collection of hits — it’s a bridge between Bollywood, Sufi, pop, and world music that continues to resonate across generations. With a devoted international fan base and years of iconic compositions, here’s why Salim-Sulaiman remain a timeless favourite.
Harmony by Blood: The Rise of a Legendary Duo
Brothers Salim and Sulaiman Merchant were born into a musical family — their father, Sadruddin Merchant, was a respected composer. Growing up in Mumbai, both developed a strong musical foundation early on. Salim went on to train in piano at the Trinity College of Music in London, while Sulaiman sharpened his percussion skills under the tutelage of maestros like Taufiq Qureshi.
Their professional partnership began in the world of background scores, and soon escalated to mainstream Bollywood with their knack for storytelling through sound. The harmony of their sibling bond reflects in their music — always in sync, always soul-deep.
The Turning Point: From Underdogs to Chart-Toppers
Though they started out composing scores for films like Moksha and Bhoot, it was the rousing anthem Chak De! India that marked their meteoric rise. This track wasn’t just a hit — it became a national movement, echoing in stadiums, schools, and hearts.
What followed was a golden streak of unforgettable compositions:
- Shukran Allah (Kurbaan)
- Ali Maula (Kurbaan)
- Aashayein (Iqbal)
- Mar Jaava (Fashion)
- Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi (title track)
Each song cemented their reputation as emotion-driven composers who could craft both devotional serenity and dancefloor dynamite.
Accolades and International Applause
Salim-Sulaiman’s influence isn’t limited to Indian cinema. They’ve collaborated with global artists like Lady Gaga, Enrique Iglesias, and even lent their magic to Hollywood soundtracks, including the FIFA World Cup anthem and Soldier (Hollywood feature film).
They’ve received numerous accolades, including:
- IIFA Award for Chak De! India
- Filmfare nominations for several albums
- Performances at MTV Unplugged, Coke Studio, and international festivals like Montreux Jazz
Their spiritual and devotional projects, especially Bhoomi, continue to draw love from across cultures.
Where to Listen: A Playlist That Hits All the Right Notes
For fans old and new, here’s where you can stream or buy their music:
- Bhoomi – Listen on Spotify
- Kurbaan – Stream on Apple Music
- Chak De! India, Fashion, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi – available on Spotify, JioSaavn, Amazon Music
- Explore their independent releases on Merchant Records YouTube
Live in Mumbai: The 2025 Concert Fans Can’t Miss
This year, Salim-Sulaiman return to where it all began — Mumbai — with their electrifying live concert:
Chak De India – Salim-Sulaiman Live
- Date: Sunday, 10th August 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM
- Venue: Dublin Square, Phoenix Marketcity, Mumbai
- Duration: ~2 hours 30 minutes
- Tickets: Starting at ₹1199
- Buy Tickets: BookMyShow – Official Link
This concert is more than just a performance — it’s a celebration of their greatest hits, iconic soundtracks, and spiritual fusions. Fans can expect a full band experience, visual storytelling, and emotional highs that only Salim-Sulaiman can deliver.
Their previous shows in cities like Paris, Nairobi, and Toronto have drawn massive crowds, with fans singing every lyric. Their 2023 Paris concert alone was praised for its powerful emotional energy, diverse setlist, and crowd unity — a testament to their universal appeal.
Why Fans Keep Coming Back: The Duo’s Secret Sauce
It’s their ability to evolve without losing their roots. Salim-Sulaiman effortlessly combine Indian classical elements with global genres, while keeping emotion at the heart of every note. Their concerts aren’t just musical events — they’re shared emotional journeys.
As they take the stage again in 2025, fans aren’t just attending a concert — they’re stepping into the living history of Indian music
Book your seat, relive the nostalgia, and experience the music that continues to define generations.