Renowned classical singer, Padma Bhushan Ustad Rashid Khan passed away on Tuesday.
The 55-year-old artist, who had been undergoing treatment for prostate cancer at a Kolkata-based hospital, succumbed to the illness this afternoon.
The news of his passing was confirmed by officials at the private hospital where Khan was receiving treatment.
Despite the best efforts of the medical team, the celebrated classical singer breathed his last at around 3:45 pm.
He is survived by his wife, two sons, and a daughter, a national news agency reported.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, expressing her deep sorrow, told the news agency, “This is a great loss for the entire country and the entire music fraternity. I am in a lot of pain as I still can’t believe that Rashid Khan is no more.”
She visited the hospital and extended her condolences to his grieving family.
To honour the maestro, Ustad Khan will be accorded a gun salute and state honours before his last rites are performed on January 10.
Ustad Khan hailed from the illustrious Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana and was the great-grandson of the gharana founder, Inayat Hussain Khan.
Remembered not only for his classical prowess but also for his versatility, Ustad Khan ventured into fusion and film music, earning accolades for his contributions.
He received the Padma Shri and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 2006.
In recognition of his remarkable achievements, he was honoured with the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award, in 2022.
Among his notable contributions to the world of Hindi film music is the soul-stirring rendition of Aaoge Jab Tum Saajna from the film Jab We Met, which remains one of his most popular Hindi film songs.
His voice also graced songs in films such as Shaadi Mein Zaroor Aana, Raaz 3, Chakravyuh, Mausam, and My Name is Khan, showcasing his versatility and the universal appeal of his art.
Ustad Khan’s departure leaves a void in the world of music, but his legacy will continue to resonate through the melodies he gifted to the world.
