Ali Merchant dedicated ‘Afghan Jalebi’ to Bigg Boss 20 contestant Qazi Touqeer during his Goa performance and recalled knowing him since his Fame Gurukul days.
Entertainment desk
October 07, 2026 / 23:01 IST
Ali went on to recall how he had rooted for Qazi during his Fame Gurukul stint and even voted for him.
Bigg Boss 20 contestant Qazi Touqeer recently received a special musical shoutout from actor and DJ Ali Merchant during his performance in Goa. In front of thousands of people, Ali played Qazi’s much-loved track ‘Afghan Jalebi’, turning the performance into a personal tribute to the singer-actor.
Ali, who has carved a niche for himself in the music and entertainment industry as a DJ and actor, has shared the stage with some of the industry’s A-list celebrities.
Taking to Instagram, he shared a clip from his recent Goa gig and spoke about his bond with Qazi. He mentioned that he has known about his journey since his days on Fame Gurukul.
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A post shared by Ali Mercchant (@alimercchant)
He wrote, “I’ve actually watched your journey from much closer than most people know. From your Fame Gurukul days, when you were a couple of years senior to me while I was finding my own way in acting, to seeing you now winning hearts all over again, it’s genuinely special.”
Ali went on to recall how he had rooted for Qazi during his Fame Gurukul stint and even voted for him. He praised Qazi for his “honesty, integrity, madness, respect and Rockstar spirit,” while highlighting his ability to entertain people.
The DJ also praised Qazi beyond his work as a singer and actor, saying that he had mastered “the art of being a good human being.”
Reflecting on Qazi’s current stint on Bigg Boss 20, Ali wrote, “watching you play this game and win so many hearts has been incredible,” while appreciating the personality and energy he has brought to the reality show. He also wished Qazi a speedy recovery and added, “The whole country is rooting for you.”
Ali then revealed why he chose to play ‘Afghan Jalebi’ during his Goa gig. Recalling the atmosphere at the venue, he wrote, “with thousands of people in front of me, I had to play your iconic Afghan Jalebi. The energy was INSANE.”
He further added, “Some songs carry a different kind of nostalgia and tonight, this one felt even more special because of you.”
Qazi responded to Ali’s heartfelt tribute in the comments, writing, “Means alot! Sending good wishes and love Rise and shine!”
The exchange between the two artists brought back memories of Qazi’s earlier journey in the entertainment industry while also highlighting the support he continues to receive during his Bigg Boss 20 stint.
Qazi is currently participating in Bigg Boss 20, which is hosted by Salman Khan.
Entertainment desk Entertainment Desk at Moneycontrol reports on the celebrities, movies that shape India’s entertainment industry. With a sharp focus on cinema, OTT, web series, and latest trends, the entertainment desk delivers verified news, and analytical stories that place entertainment within a wider economic and cultural context. Our coverage goes beyond celebrity to examine how storytelling, audiences and business decisions influence one of the country’s most influential creative industries.
first published: Oct 7, 2026 11:00 pm
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