Renowned Hindustani classical musician Ustad Rashid Khan passed away at the age of 55 in a Kolkata hospital on Tuesday, succumbing to cancer. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep sorrow over his demise, highlighting the significant loss for the nation. Banerjee, emotionally referring to him as a brother, shared their close bond, with Khan often calling her “mother.”
Khan had been admitted to a private hospital in east Kolkata on November 22 due to an intracerebral haemorrhage. Despite initial recovery, a hospital-acquired infection emerged during his extended stay, leading to a rapid deterioration in his health. Despite the medical team’s efforts, Khan could not be revived and passed away at 3:45 pm.
Rashid Khan Dies
On January 9, the renowned music maestro, Rashid Khan, passed away at the age of 55 after battling cancer for an extended period at a Kolkata hospital. His health had been deteriorating since he experienced a cerebral attack last year.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed her condolences and revealed that Ustad Rashid Khan would be honored with a gun salute during his final rites on January 10. The public can pay their last respects at Rabindra Sadan in Kolkata, where his body will be placed.
In recognition of his contributions to music, Rashid Khan was conferred with the Padma Bhushan in 2022.
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Who was Rashid Khan?
Rashid Khan, renowned for his heartfelt musical expressions, garnered numerous accolades in his illustrious career. Notable honors, such as the Padma Shri and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, were bestowed upon him for his significant contributions to Indian classical music.
His mastery in Hindustani classical music was showcased in performances at esteemed festivals and concerts worldwide, solidifying his reputation as a maestro.
Not limited to personal achievements, Rashid Khan actively mentored and taught budding talents, playing a pivotal role in preserving and passing on the legacy of Hindustani classical music to future generations.
Through his recorded works, live shows, and unwavering dedication to the art, Rashid Khan has etched his name as one of the most distinguished and revered vocalists in the realm of Indian classical music. His profound legacy serves as an enduring source of inspiration for aspiring musicians and music enthusiasts alike.
Legacy of Ustad Rashid Khan
Renowned classical vocalist Ustad Rashid Khan, who is survived by his wife and two children, received prestigious honors including the Banga Bibhushan and Sangeet Mahasamman, our highest civilian awards. West Bengal Chief Minister Banerjee shared in a post on X that Ustad Rashid Khan served in advisory roles for various state cultural bodies.
Born in Uttar Pradesh, he had a deep affection for West Bengal and eventually settled there. Banerjee, expressing a close bond, mentioned that Ustad Rashid Khan referred to her as a mother.
His mortal remains will be kept in a mortuary with a gun salute scheduled for Wednesday afternoon, followed by the final rites. The classical maestro was also honored with the Padma Shri in 2006 and the Padma Bhushan in 2022.
Rashid Khan Songs
Rashid Khan has left an indelible mark on the world of music with his soulful renditions. Some of his notable songs include:
- “Aaoge Jab Tum”
- “Aaj Koi Jogee Aave”
- “Rishte Naate”
- “Ishq Ka Rang”
- “Laagi Lagan”
- “Poore Se Zara Sa Kam”
- “Jheeni Re Jheeni”
- “Cheene Re Mora Chain”
- “Ae Ri Mai Re”
- “Allah hi Rehem”
These are just a glimpse of his contributions to the musical landscape. Rashid Khan’s discography is rich and diverse, showcasing his mastery in Hindustani classical music. His songs resonate with emotion and have become timeless pieces that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
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Rashid Khan FAQs
Q.1. When did Ustad Rashid Khan pass away?
Ans. Ustad Rashid Khan passed away on January 9, 2024, at the age of 55 in a Kolkata hospital after battling cancer.
Q.2. What honors did Rashid Khan receive?
Ans. Rashid Khan received prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri in 2006 and the Padma Bhushan in 2022, recognizing his contributions to Indian classical music.
Q.3. Where can the public pay their last respects to Rashid Khan?
Ans. The public can pay their last respects at Rabindra Sadan in Kolkata, where Ustad Rashid Khan’s body will be placed.
Q.4. What role did Rashid Khan play in preserving classical music?
Ans. Apart from his performances, Rashid Khan actively mentored and taught young talents, contributing significantly to the preservation and propagation of Hindustani classical music.
Q.5. What is the significance of the gun salute during Rashid Khan’s final rites?
Ans. In honor of his contributions, Ustad Rashid Khan will be given a gun salute during his final rites on January 10, as announced by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
