The renowned voice that brought the treasures of Hindustani classical music to countless listeners, Ustad Rashid Khan, succumbed to prostate cancer on Tuesday after a four-year battle.
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Hailing from the illustrious family of Inayat Hussain Khan, the founder of the Rampur-Sahaswan gharana, Khan was deeply connected to his musical roots. He was admitted to a private hospital where, despite efforts, he passed away around 3:45 pm, as confirmed by a hospital official.
Prime minister Narendra Modi condolences to Ustan Rashid Khan:
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… pic.twitter.com/u8qvcbCSQ6
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 9, 2024
Khan’s medical team reported that while typical therapies were working well for him, an extended hospital stay caused an infection to spread quickly, which resulted in difficulties.
Expressing grief, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said, “I heard about his demise. Both the music industry and the entire nation are mourning a great loss.
I am deeply saddened because I still can’t believe that Rashid Khan is no more.” Banerjee stood with Khan’s family at the hospital, stating, “We had a deep personal connection. He was a very dear person. We are with his family.”
She reminisced about the singer who made West Bengal his home, born in Badayun, Uttar Pradesh, but moved to Kolkata with his family at the age of 10 in 1980.
Ustad Rashid khan. RIP. At a young age of 55. What a loss. pic.twitter.com/z3DVbBhvD1
— Gabbar (@GabbbarSingh) January 9, 2024
“He had a profound personal relationship among us… he was a very lovely person. We were in regular touch. All of his family members are in our thoughts,” Banerjee added.
The Chief Minister announced that on January 10, Khan’s mortal remains would be taken from the mortuary to Rabindra Sadan, where a gun salute and state honors would be given. The last rites would then be performed at his Naktala residence and later at Tollygunge Cemetery.
Khan had been on ventilator support, and his health had deteriorated after a stroke last month.
Since 2019, he had been receiving cancer treatment.
The music world was saddened by his passing. Screenwriter and lyricist Prasoon Joshi lauded him, referring to him as “a voice through which God spoke to us”.
Banerjee emphasized that she and her cabinet colleagues would be present during Khan’s final journey on January 10.
Following the news of Khan’s demise, eminent personalities in the music industry expressed their condolences.
#WATCH | West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee remembers Indian classical vocalist Ustad Rashid Khan on his passing away pic.twitter.com/11Mkv9ZqeN
— ANI (@ANI) January 9, 2024
Lyricist and scriptwriter Prasoon Joshi referred to him as “an irreplaceable loss” and a “unique treasure.”
Music director Pritam mentioned that losing Ustad Rashid Khan is a significant loss for the world of music. Noted Bengali singer Haimanti Shukla remembered how they used to sing together during travels in the same vehicle.
Shukla emotionally stated, “Rashid Bhai was a lovely person popular among contemporary artists. Every year, he looked forward to my ‘Bhai Phonta’ (Brother’s Day).”
Young Bengali singer Suamita described Khan as equivalent to a father, and another nationally acclaimed singer, Iman Chakraborty, expressed disbelief at his passing, saying, “I can’t imagine Ustadji is no more.
The Rekhta Foundation mourns the loss of Ustad Rashid Khan, a titan of classical music whose voice was an embodiment of depth and emotion. His departure has left a void in the world of music that can never be filled.
— Rekhta (@Rekhta) January 9, 2024
We were fortunate to have been graced by his presence at… pic.twitter.com/NIU7AUUUaU
Finally, we say goodbye to a musical epitome whose influence will live in the hearts of millions. We consider the life and accomplishments of Ustad Rashid Khan today. He was a mesmerizing master whose voice left a lasting impression on the Hindustani classical music scene.
Musical Beginnings:
Ustad Rashid Khan was born in 1968 into the prestigious family of Rampur-Sahaswan, known for its distinct vocal style and emotional depth. Music was his birthright, as he belonged to the lineage of Ustad Inayat Hussain Khan, the founder of the family. Nurtured by his family’s rich musical tradition, Rashid began his training under his grandfather, Ustad Nisar Hussain Khan, at a young age.
Early Brilliance:
By the age of eleven, Rashid Khan was already displaying his extraordinary talent, showcasing his remarkable grasp of the intricate nuances of Hindustani classical music. Due to his relentless rise, he was captivating audiences in India and other nations by the time he was in his early 20s.
Master of Melody, Rashid Khan:
Rashid Khan’s voice was a rare gem, possessing a richness and depth that could express a wide range of emotions. His raga presentations took the audience on a journey through the spectrum of happiness, grief, devotion, and all in between. His skill lay in the artful infusion of intricate embellishments and patterns, breathing fresh vitality into time-honored melodies.
Legacy of Inspiration:
Rashid Khan was like a music superhero. He taught many young talents at a special music school in Kolkata called ITC Sangeet Research Academy. Apart from being a musician, he supported his family’s musical pride and served as a kind of music instructor.
Recognized Excellence: Rashid Khan got some really important awards for being an amazing musician. Imagine getting a Padma Shri in 2006, then a Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2022, and finally, a Padma Bhushan in 2024!
photos and post source : X(Twitter) courtesy
