RISING music star Rizaan Ali blends Hindi and English lyrics in his songs. The 26-year-old from Trinidad and Tobago has been a twotime Chutney Soca Monarch finalist and is also a youth achievement award winner.
The ambitious young artist aims to take Indo-Caribbean music global and recently released his latest single You’re A Winner.
Eastern Eye asked him to share 10 songs he loves.
You’re A Winner by Riz: This song symbolises strength in overcoming struggles. It is an inspirational track written by me and Miss Kanika Srivastava from India to give people that extra motivation. Besides the message, I love this song’s musical composition by Mahindra ‘MaverX’ Ramadan. I also showcased my vocals and acting skills in the music video.
I’ll Find Love Again by Riz: This was my first song where I mixed Hindi and English. I collaborated with a producer and lyricist from India. The song’s purpose was to show people they should never lose hope. Relationships can be rocky, and a failed one might leave you broken, but I believe the right person will change your mind.
Tum Hi Aana by Jubin Nautiyal: Whenever I listen to this film song, it gives me goosebumps. The musical arrangement, instruments and lyrics are all on point. It is a sad track, but sung to perfection. I do not think anyone could have done a better job than Jubin – his tone was perfect. I also loved the movie Marjaavaan, so this song felt perfectly placed.
Suna Hai by Jubin Nautiyal/Shreya Ghoshal: Both the male and female versions are amazing, so it is hard to choose one. The chorus melody is one of the best I have heard. Jubin’s tone is spot on and Shreya’s angelic voice does justice to the song. I have been addicted to this one for a while – it just makes you fall in love.
Chumma by Pawan Singh: I live in a country where we love to party, so hearing this Bhojpuri-style Bollywood track makes me really happy. It makes you want to get up and dance. The energy is so high – both in the song and movie. The vocals and choreography are on point. It is one of Bollywood’s best party songs.
Kal Ho Naa Ho by Sonu Nigam: Do I even need to explain this one? It is arguably the most heart-breaking Bollywood song ever – especially if you’ve seen the film. The sad version that starts with the heartbeat just makes you want to cry. Sonu’s voice brings out all the emotion. He’s the king of melodies.
Aaj Ki Raat by Madhubanti Bagchi: The music, arrangement, vocals and melody are fantastic. I think we can all agree it was the best Bollywood song of 2024. The dancing is amazing, but the vocal power really took this to another level. Everything is well-balanced, but the vocals made it unforgettable.
Apna Bana Le by Arijit Singh: This is another song where the vocals carry everything. Arijit’s range is incredible here. The pre-chorus and chorus are everything to me. It is one of my favourites from one of my all-time favourite artists.
Mere Humsafar by Mithoon and Tulsi Kumar: This is the only Bollywood song where I loved the remake more than the original. Mithoon and Tulsi Kumar’s voices blend beautifully. The emotion runs high, and the verses hit differently. Mithoon is such a brilliant composer.
Dil Tujhpe Aa Gaya by Payal Dev and Stebin Ben: Any modern Bollywood song that gives me early 2000s vibes instantly becomes a favourite. From start to finish, this one feels nostalgic. The voices blend perfectly and the chorus is really catchy.
Instagram: @riz.tt
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.