With a soundscape that leans into melody and emotion, Hesham Abdul Wahab has steadily shaped a distinct voice in Telugu cinema through films like Kushi and Hi Nanna. Born in Kerala and raised in Saudi Arabia, the composer now finds himself returning to Hyderabad time and again, especially during Ramzan. In a conversation with Hyderabad Times, he reflects on cherished Eid memories with family, the evolving atmosphere of Ramzan across the places he has lived, and the role spirituality plays in both life and music.
This Ramzan has been deeply spiritual for me, especially with everything happening around my work and life. It has given me the space to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters
– Hesham Abdul Wahab
‘Eid has always meant coming together, no matter where I was’I was born in Cherthala, Kerala, and raised in Saudi, so my earliest memories of Eid are deeply rooted there. For me, the festival was always about togetherness rather than grandeur — families gathering under one roof, each bringing dishes prepared at home, and celebrating as one big unit. Those shared moments of food, laughter, and connection remain some of my most cherished memories.Eid has always meant family time for me. It’s one of the rare occasions when everyone could truly come together. That’s what makes it so nostalgic even today. Over the years, one thing that hasn’t changed is the tradition of celebrating at home, complete with biryani, pakoras, and an array of festive snacks that continue to define the spirit of Eid for me.
‘Hyderabad during Ramzan has become something I look forward to’This year, Hyderabad feels like it’s truly come alive during Ramzan, with an incredible variety of iftar delicacies across the city. Over time, I’ve developed a strong personal connection with Hyderabad during Ramzan, especially after I started working in Telugu cinema.From Kushi to Hi Nanna and Manamey, I’ve often found myself here during this period. Most days, I’d break my fast with a simple iftar arranged by my wife, say my prayers, and then step out to experience the city. I still remember trying haleem for the first time during Kushi. It was completely new to and has since become one of my favourite dishes. Even work has blended into these memories. I recall spending the night before Eid mixing a song, and somehow, moments like that have made Hyderabad and Ramzan deeply connected for me.
Hyderabad during Ramzan has become something I genuinely look forward to each year. There’s a certain energy in the city, from the food to the late-night bustle, that feels both vibrant and comforting
-Hesham
‘Ramzan in the Gulf is beautiful, but global uncertainty makes it feel heavier this year’Ramzan in the Gulf has always been very special to me. The atmosphere is beautiful, with shops coming alive after Roza and people staying up until sehri, creating a unique sense of energy and togetherness. This year, however, it feels a little heavier with everything happening around the world. The sense of uncertainty has changed that otherwise vibrant spirit in some ways. I still have close friends in Saudi Arabia who are observing Ramzan there, and I truly pray for their well-being and hope they have a peaceful Eid. My wife and I had planned to go on a pilgrimage this year. We wanted to visit Mecca and perform Umrah but because of the current situation, we couldn’t go. It was something we had been looking forward to for a long time.
‘Spirituality, for me, is about staying grounded’This Ramzan has been deeply spiritual for me. With a lot of work ahead, it has also been a time to slow down, reflect, and find clarity. For me, spirituality lies in simple, mindful practices: fasting, doing good, and staying grounded. I also try to maintain a healthy relationship with my work by setting boundaries and staying true to my values, which helps me remain balanced.
