He was one of the foremost music directors for Bollywood films, and is particularly known for popularizing the use of classical music in films.

His Bollywood career witnessed 35 silver jubilee hits, 12 golden jubilee and 3 diamond jubilee mega successes.

Naushad had already become a cinema fan in the silent films era; and when, in 1931, Indian cinema got voice and music that further fascinated this 13 year old boy.

But his orthodox father gave him ultimatum to either leave music or else leave the home.

Music Composer Khemchand Prakash took him on as his assistant.

Naushad had requested the Maharashtra state government to sanction a plot for an institution for promoting Hindustani music. This was sanctioned during his lifetime and the 'Naushad Academy of Hindustani Sangeet' was formed.

Naushad was also a respected and published poet and formally launched his book of Urdu poetry entitled Aathwaan Sur ("The Eighth Note").