Ustad Rashid Khan to be laid to rest with state honors

Music maestro Ustad Rashid Khan, who passed away on Tuesday, January, 9, 2024, afternoon, will be laid to rest with state honors in Kolkata on Wednesday.

He will receive a gun salute as part of his final rites.
Ustad Rashid Khan,55, was undergoing treatment for cancer at a hospital in Kolkata. He is survived by his wife, two sons and a daughter.

Rashid Khan was the nephew of Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan and received his initial training from his maternal grand-uncle Ustad Nissar Hussain Khan.

He not only contributed immensely to Indian classical music but also weaved the magic in Bollywood with his soulful songs such as ‘Aaoge Jab Tum O Saajana’ from the Kareena-Shahid starrer ‘Jab We Met’ and ‘Allah Hi Reham’ in the Shah Rukh Khan starrer ‘My Name is Khan’.

After learning about the unfortunate news, people from everywhere took to social media, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“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,” PM Modi tweeted.

One of the most emotional messages was from Sonu Nigam who took to Instagram and paid his tributes. “My dear Respected Elder Brother and the Pride of Classical Music of our Country Padmabhushan Ustad Rashid Khan Sahab. Aise koi jaata hai kya bhai? Akele akele? Saddened beyond words. Allah aapko jannat me aala makaam de. You’ll be missed always. Om Shanti.”