From winning Fame Gurukul against Arijit Singh to Bigg Boss 20: Qazi Touqeer’s journey from overnight fame to a comeback after 21 years

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In 2005, Qazi Touqeer became a household name after winning the singing reality show Fame Gurukul alongside Ruprekha Banerjee. Among the contestants was a young Arijit Singh, who finished sixth but later went on to become one of India’s biggest playback singers. While Arijit’s career reached extraordinary heights, Qazi gradually moved away from the mainstream spotlight. Now, nearly 21 years later, Qazi is back on national television as a contestant on Bigg Boss 20. His journey has an interesting mix of an unexpected victory, a lasting friendship, career struggles and a second chance at fame. Here’s a look at his journey:-

Qazi was just 20 when he participated in Fame Gurukul in 2005. His energetic performances, confidence and connection with viewers helped him stand out. Interestingly, he reportedly entered the danger zone 10 times but continued to receive enough audience votes to remain in the competition. On October 20, 2005, he and Ruprekha Banerjee were declared the winners, earning Rs 50 lakh each, a music contract and a car. His victory showed that audience popularity could sometimes matter as much as technical singing ability in a reality show.

One of the most talked-about aspects of Qazi’s career is his connection with Arijit Singh, who was also a contestant on Fame Gurukul. Arijit finished sixth, while Qazi and Ruprekha lifted the trophy. Years later, the contrasting paths of the two singers became a popular talking point, particularly after Arijit established himself as a leading playback singer. However, Qazi has said that he does not feel jealous of his friend’s success, despite people frequently comparing their careers. He has expressed happiness at Arijit’s achievements and said he is content with his own life.

In a candid moment on Bigg Boss 20, Qazi acknowledged that he did not sing particularly well during his Fame Gurukul days, despite winning the competition. The admission surprised some viewers because his victory is often remembered as a singing competition success. His popularity, however, was built on more than his voice. His stage presence, confidence and ability to win audience support helped him survive repeated eliminations and eventually win. His honesty about his earlier singing ability has also brought a fresh perspective to a victory that took place more than two decades ago.

After Fame Gurukul, Qazi explored opportunities in music and entertainment, although he did not achieve the same level of mainstream visibility as some of his contemporaries. One of his notable appearances came in the music video for Afghan Jalebi, from the 2015 film Phantom, which featured Katrina Kaif. However, he did not maintain a consistent presence in the entertainment industry’s mainstream spotlight.

Despite taking different career paths, Qazi and Arijit have remained friends since their Fame Gurukul days. Qazi has spoken warmly about their bond and recalled recognising Arijit’s voice when he heard Tum Hi Ho, the song that became a major turning point in the singer’s career. He said he immediately called Arijit and told him that his life was about to change. When Qazi entered Bigg Boss 20, Arijit publicly supported him, writing that he would watch the show for the first time because his “rockstar QAZI” was participating. Their friendship has become one of the most heartwarming aspects of Qazi’s comeback.

Nearly 21 years after his first major reality television victory, Qazi entered Bigg Boss 20 in September 2026. At 41, he returned with the same flamboyant personality and dramatic energy that had helped him stand out on Fame Gurukul. This time, however, he is being judged on his personality, relationships and gameplay rather than his singing alone. His unusual expressions, playful exchanges and entertaining reactions have made him a talking point inside the house.

Qazi’s return has revived conversations about what happens to reality show winners after their initial success. While Arijit Singh went on to become one of India’s most successful singers, Qazi’s career followed a less conventional route. Yet their friendship has survived the comparisons, and Qazi has continued to speak positively about Arijit’s achievements. With Bigg Boss 20, he has another opportunity to introduce himself to audiences beyond the Fame Gurukul generation.