Mysore :
Mysore District Journalists’ Association (MDJA) had the fortune of inviting a centenarian guest for its regular interaction programme at Patrakarthara Bhavan in city this morning.
The guest was none other than the famous Hindustani vocalist, 106-year-old Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan of Kolkata, who is in city to perform on an invitation from SPIC MACAY (Society for the Promotion of Indian Classical Music And Culture Amongst Youth) and SJCE. During the interaction, the Ustad, who was felicitated by Sarod maestro Pt. Rajiv Taranath, said Hindustani music was given a lot of importance during the rule of kings but as days passed, the encouragement dipped.
The Government has been encouraging Hindustani classical music but there is a need for further encouragement, said Ustad Khan of Gwalior Gharana. He said he would speak to the concerned authorities regarding the steps to be taken to encourage Hindustani music in the State.
Speaking about his concerts throughout his professional career, he said that it was difficult to decide upon his best concert. He mentioned that till Hindustan would be alive Hindustani music will be alive, despite the craze of western music.
Ustad Khan said that it was important to popularise Hindustani music among children to carry forward the legacy.
Speaking about his daily routine, he said that he has only breakfast in the morning and dinner at around 11 pm. He does not have lunch in the afternoon and practices music throughout the day.
The Ustad was brought in a car to the venue and later shifted to a wheel-chair in which he sat throughout the interaction.
Born on 19th August 1908, he belongs to the musical tradition of Miya Tansen. Apart from khayal, he sings dhrupad, dhamar and thumri with equal versatility. Padma Bhushan Ustad Khan’s traditional compositions have been recorded by the BBC and Iraq Radio.
MDJA President C.K. Mahendra, General Secretary K. Deepak and others were present. The Ustad is scheduled to perform at SJCE today at 6 pm.
source: http://www.starofmysore.com / Star of Mysore / Home> General News / July 11th, 2013