Talha Tariq, a young artist from Oldham, has always had a deep passion for Nasheed and Islamic art. From an early age, he dedicated himself to spreading the love of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) through his videos, online messages, and public performances.
Growing up in a vibrant Muslim community, surrounded by Pakistani and Bengali families, Talha found the perfect environment to nurture his interests. His family’s support, coupled with attendance at local Islamic schools and Mehfils (religious gatherings), played a crucial role in shaping him as an artist. These early experiences provided him with both the confidence and inspiration to pursue Nasheed seriously.
Talha first performed publicly around the age of 11 or 12. His grandfather, Haji Tariq Mahmood, a passionate reciter himself, was the primary influence on his journey. Even though his grandfather has since passed away, Talha continues to honour his legacy through his work. One of his recent Nasheed releases includes a verse he wrote himself, inspired by the bedtime recitations his grandfather used to perform, which first sparked his love for Nasheed.
Over the years, Talha has witnessed a remarkable growth in the Nasheed and Islamic art scene, particularly in Oldham. Local talent has flourished, creating opportunities for young English-speaking audiences to connect with the art form. Alongside close friends Hassan, Zain, and Bilal, Talha formed a group called Mustafa Ya Mustafa. The group combines Nasheed and speeches to engage youth, address contemporary issues like crime and drugs, and promote positive role models within the community. Their events and Mehfils have been widely praised for reviving meaningful local gatherings.
Talha emphasizes the importance of local experiences in his development. Performing in community spaces allowed him to build confidence, refine his style, and understand audience dynamics. Many community leaders were familiar with his grandfather and offered guidance, helping him grow as a reciter and performer.
Talha strives to maintain his own unique style. He recites in multiple languages, including Bengali, Arabic, Urdu, Punjabi, and occasionally English, always ensuring that his performances remain authentic and spiritually resonant. Although he leans toward traditional Nasheed, he incorporates modern elements to engage contemporary audiences without compromising the art form’s essence.
Choosing what to recite is often a mix of audience requests and personal preference. Talha carefully selects pieces that resonate with him while remaining mindful of the crowd, ensuring each performance is meaningful and impactful. He also plans locations for his recordings thoughtfully, seeking environments that complement the message of his Nasheeds. Fans can follow his work on YouTube, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram under Official Talha Tariq.
Talha acknowledges that, like any young artist, he faced challenges. Early skepticism from some community members was a minor hurdle, but unwavering family and community support helped him persevere. He advises aspiring Nasheed artists to focus on sincerity, humility, and passion, reminding them that the connection with the audience comes from genuine feeling rather than perfection.
Through dedication, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose, Talha Tariq has built a remarkable presence in the world of Nasheed and Islamic art. His journey reflects not only personal growth but also a commitment to inspiring others, reviving community events, and ensuring that the art form continues to touch hearts for generations to come.
