PM Modi Condoles Demise of Ustad Rashid Khan

New Delhi, 10th Jan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi today condoled the demise of Ustad Rashid Khan, a legendary figure in the world of Indian classical music.

PM Modi posted on X, “Pained by the demise of Ustad Rashid Khan Ji, a legendary figure in the world of Indian classical music. His unparalleled talent and dedication to music enriched our cultural world and inspired generations. His passing leaves a void that will be hard to fill. My heartfelt condolences to his family, disciples and countless admirers.”

Khan, who had been battling cancer, passed away on Tuesday afternoon in a private hospital in Kolkata at the age of 55. He will be laid to rest with state honors in the city on Wednesday. Khan’s health deteriorated after suffering a cerebral attack last month. Initially, he received treatment at Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital, but later decided to continue his treatment in Kolkata.

Born in Badayun, Uttar Pradesh, Rashid Khan received his initial training from his maternal grand-uncle Ustad Nissar Hussain Khan. His uncle, Ghulam Mustafa Khan, recognized his musical talents and provided him with initial training in Mumbai. However, the majority of his training was received from Nissar Hussain Khan in Badayun.

At the age of eleven, Rashid Khan gave his first concert, and the following year, in 1978, he performed at an ITC concert in Delhi. In April 1980, when Nissar Hussain Khan joined the ITC Sangeet Research Academy (SRA) in Calcutta, Rashid Khan, at the age of 14, also became a part of the academy.

Khan ventured into blending classical Hindustani music with lighter musical genres and collaborated with Western instrumentalist Louis Banks. He also showcased his versatility by participating in jugalbandis, sharing the stage with sitarist Shahid Parvez and other musicians.