Salim Merchant is a renowned Indian music composer, singer, and producer, best known for his work as part of the music composer duo Salim-Sulaiman, alongside his brother Sulaiman Merchant. The duo has created iconic music across Bollywood films, television shows, and independent music projects. Their compositions span various genres, including Indian classical, contemporary, electronic, and fusion.
He has also lent his voice to several hit songs, making him a celebrated playback singer in the Indian music industry. His contributions to films like Chak De! India, Fashion, Band Baaja Baaraat, and Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi have earned him critical acclaim. Beyond Bollywood, Salim is involved in global music collaborations and frequently performs at live concerts worldwide.
Early Life and Education
Salim Merchant was born on 3 March 1974 in Mundra Kutch Gujarat India. He was inspired by her father Sadruddin Merchant, who used to lead Ismaili Scouts Orchestra in India. Steeped in a family music tradition as the son of composer and veteran of the film industry Sadruddin Merchant, Salim mastered the piano at the Trinity College of Music in London. At the same time, her brother Sulaiman took up tabla training with such legends as Taufiq Qureshi and Ustad Zakir Hussain. Six years after their first music composition for a Bollywood film, he and his brother Sulaiman received acclaim for the film score of Bhoot.
Personal Life
Salim Merchant was raised in a family with a rich musical legacy. His father is Sadruddin Merchant the former conductor of the Indian Ismaili Scouts Orchestra. There is not much information available about his mother.
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He also has a brother Sulaiman Merchant who is also a music composer. Currently, Salim is married to Jeanne Micheal Merchant a singer and lyricist. The couple has a daughter Ayesha Merchant.
Salim Merchant Age Girlfriend Wife Family Biography
| Bio/Wiki | |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Salim Sadruddin Moledina Merchant |
| Profession(s) | Singer, Music Director, Score Composer |
| Physical Stats & More | |
| Height (approx.) | in centimeters– 178 cm in meters– 1.78 m in feet & inches– 5’ 10” |
| Eye Colour | Brown |
| Hair Colour | Black |
| Career | |
| Debut | Music (Background Score): Hameshaa (1997) Music (Composer): Ghaath (2000) TV: Indian Idol Season 5 (2010) |
| Awards, Honours, Achievements | • Star Screen Award for Best Background Score for the film “Bhoot” (2003) • Star Screen Award for Best Background Score for the film “Dhoom” (2004) • Zee Cine Award for Best Background Score for the film “Ab Tak Chhappan” (2005) • IIFA Award for Best Background Score for the film “Mujhse Shaadi Karogi” (2005) • FHM (magazine) Award for Best Dressed Music Composer (2007) • Filmfare Award for Best Background Score for the film “Krrish” (2007) • Syracuse International Film Festival Award for Best Music Director for the film “Fashion” (2008) • Mirchi Music Award for Indie Pop Song of the Year for the song “Cheene Re Mora Chain” (2013) |
| Personal Life | |
| Date of Birth | 3 March 1974 (Sunday) |
| Age (as in 2025) | 51 Years |
| Birthplace | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Zodiac sign | Pisces |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Hometown | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| School | St Peter’s High School, Mumbai |
| College/University | KC College, Mumbai |
| Educational Qualification | Graduate |
| Religion | Islam |
| Food Habit | Non-Vegetarian |
| Hobbies | Reading Books, Playing Xbox |
| Controversies | Salim Merchant was accused of plagiarism by the Pakistani singer, Farhan Saeed. Farhan pointed out that Salim’s song “Haareya” was an absolute copy of his song “Roiyaan.” However, Salim called it a coincidence. |
| Relationships & More | |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Affairs/Girlfriends | Jeanne Merchant |
| Family | |
| Wife/Spouse | Jeanne Merchant (Singer, Lyricist) |
| Children | Son– None Daughter– Ayesha  |
| Parents | Father– Late Sadruddin Merchant (Music Director) Mother– Name Not Known (Deceased)  |
| Siblings | Brother– Sulaiman Merchant (Music Director & Composer) Sister- None |
| Favourite Things | |
| Food | Japanese Cuisine, Grilled Fish, Butter Chicken |
| Actor(s) | Hrithik Roshan, Shah Rukh Khan, Farhan Akhtar, Ranveer Singh, Riteish Deshmukh |
| Actress(es) | Keira Knightley, Anushka Sharma, Priyanka Chopra |
| Film(s) | Bollywood– Ab Tak Chhappan (2004) Hollywood– Legends of the Fall (1994), Life is Beautiful (1997) |
| Musicians | Sukhwinder Singh, Sonu Nigam, Shreya Ghoshal, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Shafqat Amanat Ali, Sunidhi Chauhan, Kailash Kher, A. R. Rahman |
| Book | The Kite Runner by Khaled Hossein |
| Restaurant(s) | Kofuku Japanese (Mumbai), Tatami (Mumbai) |
career
Salim and his brother Sulaiman have been composing music for over a decade. They have scored for movies like Neal ‘n’ Nikki, Chak De! India, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, and Fashion. The duo also worked with several Indi-pop performers, including Viva, Aasmaan, Shweta Shetty, Jasmine, and Style Bhai. In addition, they composed and produced numerous TV commercials.
They have collaborated with renowned artists such as K. S. Chithra, Ustad Zakir Hussain, Ustad Sultan Khan, and Ayisha Abdul Basith. Over the years, they worked with prominent producers and directors like Yash Chopra, Subhash Ghai, and Ram Gopal Varma. Initially, the duo primarily focused on background scores. However, their song compositions for the Karan Johar-Shah Rukh Khan production Kaal received critical acclaim.
Salim Merchant was one of the three judges for the fifth season of Indian Idol on Sony Entertainment Television (India).
They have worked on a Hollywood remix for Lady Gaga’s songs Born This Way and Judas. They also worked on I’m A Freak By Enrique. The duo did two songs for the Hollywood film Sold. During the 2020 lockdown, Salim–Sulaiman released a Gandhi Jayanti single with Ricky Kej. The duo has produced various tracks in collaboration with several indie artists including Shivansh Jindal.
2010 FIFA World Cup
The musical duo collaborated with South African singer Loyiso Bala and Kenyan singer and songwriter Eric Wainaina to record the anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The anthem is the song “Africa – You’re A Star”.
Indian Idol
Salim Merchant was a judge along with Anu Malik and Sunidhi Chauhan in season 5 and season 6 of Indian Idol. Salim has judged the second season of Indian Idol Junior along with Vishal Dadlani and Sonakshi Sinha.
He was one among the four judges with Coach Shaan, Coach Benny, and Coach Neeti in the second season of The Voice India.
Salim Sulaiman Music
Salim and Sulaiman Merchant, renowned Indian music composers and producers, launched their own record label, Merchant Records, to nurture emerging talent and produce diverse music.
This initiative reflects their commitment to artistic freedom and innovation, allowing them to explore various musical genres without industry constraints. Through Merchant Records, they have collaborated with a range of artists, contributing to the evolution of the Indian music scene. Their YouTube channel, Salim Sulaiman Music, serves as a platform to showcase their work and support new artists. In 2023, they released “Shukranallah,” a film directed and written by Shakti Hasija, celebrating their 31-year musical journey.
This endeavor underscores their dedication to both preserving their musical legacy and fostering the growth of upcoming talent in the industry.
Under their label Merchant Records on YouTube, Salim-Sulaiman released albums that celebrated the fusion of traditional Indian music with contemporary global sounds, creating a unique auditory experience.
Bhoomi (2020)
Released during the pandemic, Bhoomi (2020) was a musical tribute to Indian culture and spirituality, with each track blending folk traditions and modern music. The album featured collaborations with prominent and upcoming artists. Some notable tracks include:
“Bhoomi 2020 (Intro)” – A powerful instrumental piece introducing the album’s essence.
“Bismillah” featuring Sukhwinder Singh – A Sufi-inspired melody.
“Muraliya” featuring Shreya Ghoshal – A soulful track based on Lord Krishna’s flute.
“Sanwal” featuring Ustad Shujaat Khan – A blend of Indian classical music and electronic beats.
“Haq Ali” featuring Raj Pandit – A qawwali-inspired song dedicated to Ali.
Bhoomi (2021)
Bhoomi 2021 delved deeper into Indian folk roots while experimenting with diverse genres. Highlights of this album include:
“Shiv Kund” featuring Padma Shri Kailash Kher – A spiritually uplifting hymn.
“Mori Sajni” featuring Raaginder – A fusion of Punjabi folk and violin melodies.
“Aabad” featuring Salman Ali – A poignant ballad celebrating resilience.
“Tandav” featuring Ehsaan Noorani – A powerful instrumental piece inspired by Lord Shiva’s dance.
“Dil Laya Dimaag Laya” featuring Sunidhi Chauhan – A modern take on a love ballad.
Bhoomi 2023
Released in December 2023, Bhoomi 2023 continues the duo’s exploration of India’s rich musical heritage. Notable tracks include:
“Dangal” featuring Srushti Tawade and Cyli Khare – A dynamic composition that fuses traditional rhythms with modern lyrical flow.
“Maari Maavadi” featuring Amit Trivedi, Osman Mir, and Aamir Mir – A vibrant track that showcases a blend of regional folk influences.
“Bulaava Aaya” – A soulful melody that resonates with spiritual undertones.
“Jaaniya” featuring Arijit Singh – A romantic ballad highlighting Singh’s emotive vocals.
“Ghoomar” featuring Shreya Ghoshal – A rendition of the traditional Rajasthani folk dance song, enriched with contemporary arrangements.
“Rangreza” featuring Harshdeep Kaur – A Sufi-inspired track that delves into themes of divine love.
“Kesariya Balam” featuring Kaushiki Chakraborty – A modern take on the classic Rajasthani folk song.
“Naino Ki Mat Mari” featuring Rekha Bhardwaj – A rustic folk tune with a contemporary twist.
“Banjara” featuring Papon – A song that captures the nomadic spirit through its melody and lyrics.
“Mast Kalandar” featuring Sukhwinder Singh – An energetic rendition of the popular traditional song.
Bhoomi 2024
Released in early 2025, Bhoomi 2024 features collaborations with a diverse range of artists, furthering the duo’s mission to bridge traditional and modern musical expressions. Notable tracks include:
“Morya” featuring Karan Kanchan, Vaishali Samant, and 100RBH – A high-energy track celebrating Lord Ganesha with a fusion of traditional chants and contemporary beats.
“Allah Ke Pyaare Nabi” featuring Richa Sharma and Salim Merchant – A devotional song paying homage to the Prophet Muhammad, blending soulful vocals with serene instrumentation.
“Chunaree” featuring Amit Trivedi, Taylor Jones, and Alawn – A cross-cultural collaboration that marries Indian melodies with global pop influences.
“Chhaila” featuring Shreya Ghoshal and Sunidhi Chauhan – A duet that showcases the powerful vocals of two leading singers, set against a backdrop of traditional rhythms.
“Mayavi” featuring Sonu Nigam, Sanjith Hegde, and Nagarjun Sharma – A mystical composition that intertwines classical Indian music with modern soundscapes.
“Mehram” featuring Goldie Sohel and Asees Kaur – A romantic ballad that blends heartfelt lyrics with melodious tunes.
“Jaanaan” featuring Raj Pandit and Gulzar Ahmad Ganaie – A soulful track that delves into themes of love and longing.
“900 Rupiya (Never Let You Go)” featuring Loren Allred – An Indo-Western fusion that combines poignant lyrics with a captivating melody.
“Ujaan” featuring Shreya Ghoshal and Srijato – A melodious song that beautifully blends Bengali poetry with contemporary music.
“Jaan Le Gayi” featuring Sonu Nigam and Vishal Dadlani – An energetic track that combines powerful vocals with dynamic instrumentation.
Filmography as composers
For songs
| YEAR | SONGS |
| 2024 | Main Atal Hoon |
| 2021 | The Power |
| 2020 | Coolie No. 1 |
| 2020 | Prawaas |
| 2019 | Setters |
| 2018 | 102 Not Out |
| 2017 | Poorna: Courage Has No Limit |
| 2016 | Janaan |
| 2016 | Jai Gangaajal |
| 2015 | Wedding Pullav |
| 2014 | 22 Yards |
| 2014 | Ungli |
| 2014 | Mardaani |
| 2014 | Kaanchi: The Unbreakable |
| 2013 | Rabba Main Kya Karoon |
| 2013 | Satyagraha |
| 2012 | Chakravyuh |
| 2012 | Heroine |
| 2012 | Jodi Breakers |
| 2011 | Ladies vs Ricky Bahl |
| 2011 | Shakal Pe Mat Ja |
| 2011 | Aazaan |
| 2011 | Love Breakups Zindagi |
| 2011 | Anaganaga O Dheerudu Telugu |
| 2010 | Band Baaja Baaraat |
| 2010 | Aashayein |
| 2010 | Teen Patti |
| 2010 | Pyaar Impossible! |
| 2009 | Rocket Singh: Salesman of the Year |
| 2009 | Kurbaan |
| 2009 | Luck |
| 2009 | Wonder Pets! |
| 2009 | 8 x 10 Tasveer |
| 2008 | Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi |
| 2008 | Fashion |
| 2008 | Roadside Romeo |
| 2008 | Bombay to Bangkok |
| 2008 | Samar |
| 2007 | Aaja Nachle |
| 2007 | Chak De! India |
| 2007 | Chain Kulii Ki Main Kulii |
| 2006 | Dor |
| 2005 | Neal ‘n’ Nikki |
| 2006 | Iqbal |
| 2005 | Kaal |
| 2003 | Darna Mana Hai |
| 2003 | Bhoot |
| 2003 | Gate To Heaven |
| 2003 | 3 Deewarein |
| 2000 | Ghaath |
For background score
| YEAR | BACKGROUND SCORE |
| 2023 | Ganapath |
| 2021 | Skater Girl |
| 2020 | Coolie No. 1 |
| 2020 | Desert Dolphin |
| 2019 | Student of the Year 2 |
| 2018 | Race 3 |
| 2017 | Kaabil |
| 2014 | Bang Bang! |
| 2013 | Gori Tere Pyaar Mein |
| 2013 | Dhoom 3 |
| 2013 | Krrish 3 |
| 2013 | Race 2 |
| 2012 | Cocktail |
| 2011 | Anaganaga O Dheerudu Telugu |
| 2010 | Anjaana Anjaani |
| 2010 | I Hate Luv Storys |
| 2010 | Kites |
| 2010 | Paathshaala |
| 2009 | Wanted |
| 2009 | Love Aaj Kal |
| 2009 | De Dana Dan |
| 2008 | Dostana |
| 2008 | Bachna Ae Haseeno |
| 2008 | Fashion |
| 2008 | Bhoothnath |
| 2008 | God Tussi Great Ho |
| 2008 | Singh Is Kinng |
| 2008 | Race |
| 2007 | Ta Ra Rum Pum |
| 2007 | Sunday |
| 2007 | Partner |
| 2006 | Dhoom 2 |
| 2006 | Krrish |
| 2006 | 36 China Town |
| 2006 | Shortcut |
| 2006 | Ustad & Divas |
| 2006 | Fanaa |
| 2006 | Pyare Mohan |
| 2006 | Being Cyrus |
| 2006 | Fight Club – Members Only |
| 2006 | Mere Jeevan Saathi |
| 2005 | Dosti: Friends Forever |
| 2005 | Vaah! Life Ho Toh Aisi! |
| 2005 | Salaam Namaste |
| 2005 | No Entry |
| 2005 | Barsaat |
| 2005 | Maine Pyaar Kyun Kiya? |
| 2005 | Naina |
| 2005 | Matrubhoomi: A Nation Without Women |
| 2005 | Vaada |
| 2004 | Koffee with Karan TV Series |
| 2004 | Aitraaz |
| 2004 | Dhoom |
| 2004 | Shock Tamil |
| 2004 | Mujhse Shaadi Karogi |
| 2004 | Hyderabad Blues 2 |
| 2004 | Hum Tum |
| 2004 | Ab Tak Chhappan |
| 2004 | Agni Pankh |
| 2003 | Kahan Ho Tum |
| 2003 | Qayamat |
| 2001 | Moksha |
| 1999 | Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi |
| 1997 | Hameshaa |
Songs sung by Salim Merchant
| Year | Songs | Album | Language | Composer | Lyricist | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 | ”Aashayein” | Iqbal | Hindi | Salim–Sulaiman | Irfan Siddique | Sang the Chorus. |
| 2009 | ”Shukran Allah” | Kurbaan | Hindi | Salim-Sulaiman | Niranjan Iyengar | |
| 2009 | “Khudaya Ve” | Luck | Hindi | Salim-Sulaiman | Shabbir Ahmed | |
| 2010 | ”Aye Khuda” | Paathshaala | Hindi | Hanif Shaikh | Hanif Shaikh | |
| 2012 | “Ishq Wala Love” | Student of the Year | Hindi | Vishal–Shekhar | Anvita Dutt |
Discography as composers
| Year | Album | Artist(s) | No. of songs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Ragga Ragga | K.S.Chithra, Voodoo (rapper) | 8 songs | First Album |
| 1995 | Shweta – The New Album | Shweta Shetty, Shantanu Mukherjee, Sagarika Mukherjee | 8 songs | Also known as Shweta – The New Album and other hits on Audio CD with the additional of 4 bonus tracks from 8 main tracks. |
| Dole Dole and Other Hits | Suchitra Krishnamurthy | 1 song | ||
| 1996 | Channel Hits | Various | 1 song | |
| 1998 | Maa | Sagarika, Shaan, Shweta Shetty, Suchitra Krishnamoorti and others As mentioned on the back of the album cover | 8+3 songs (11 songs) | |
| 2000 | Prema.com | Various | 1 song | |
| 2001 | Bhoomi | Zubeen Garg, Bhoomi, Ustad Sultan Khan and others | 8 song | |
| 2020 | Date Kar Le | CarryMinati | 1 Song | |
| 2022 | Tsunami | Khesari Lal Yadav | 1 Song |
