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Renowned Indian Classical Vocalist Ustad Rashid Khan Passes Away at 55

He died after fighting cancer for four years...

 

Ustad Rashid Khan's beautiful music will always be remembered. He passed away at 55 on January 9, 2024 after fighting cancer for four years. He leaves behind his son, two daughters, and wife. Rashid Khan, a legend in Rampur Sahaswan style of singing, was hailed as the 31st generation successor of Sangeet Samrat Mian Tansen. His expertise in 'Vilambit Khayal' singing mesmerized classical music fans for over three decades.

Rashid Khan, born in Badayun, Uttar Pradesh, started learning music from his grand-uncle at a young age. At 10, he moved to Kolkata with his grandfather. He had his first concert at 11 and earned recognition as a musician by 1994.

Rashid Khan not only excelled in classical singing but also lent his voice to hit movies like "My Name is Khan," "Jab We Met," "Isaaq," "Man-to," "Mausam," "Bapi Bari Ja," "Kadambari," and "Mitin Masi.”

Rashid Khan was known for mixing classical singing with Sufi and teaming up with Western musician Louis Banks. He also did musical collaborations, called 'jugalbandis,' with sitar artist Shahid Parvez. 

Rashid Khan received the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan awards. In 2012, he was also honored by the West Bengal government with the Bangabhusan state award.