This two-day event in Mumbai celebrates Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan's music

A two-day celebration of Hindustani classical music will commemorate the life and times of Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan

Some musicians leave behind their music as a lasting legacy, while others, like late Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan, go beyond mere recordings. The Ustad’s impact extends not only through his compositions but also through his disciples and notable musicians like Asha Bhosle and AR Rahman, who carry his musical essence forward through their own compositions. On the third death anniversary of the veteran vocalist of Rampur-Sahaswan Gharana, stalwarts of the industry like flautist Rakesh Chaurasia, vocalist Pandit Venkatesh Kumar, sitarist Purbayan Chatterjee and Bollywood playback singer Sonu Nigam will gather to pay the late Ustad a musical tribute.

Rakesh Chaurasia and Purbayan Chatterjee at a previous event. PIC COURTESY/INSTAGRAM

As sitar maestro Chatterjee prepares to perform at the event, he reminisces about his first meeting with the Ustad fondly. “When I first met him almost two decades ago at a concert in London, I was engulfed by his warmth and humility. He would always greet artistes with a certain endearment that felt almost fatherly.” For Chaurasia, the Ustad’s legacy stands out in his contribution in furthering Hindustani classical music in the musical landscape of the city. “This event is the perfect platform for both old and young listeners to witness the influence of Khan sahab on the music they listen to. He has played a pivotal role by digging the roots of Hindustani classical music deep in the music fraternity by being a guiding force for many in the industry,” he adds.

Pandit Venkatesh Kumar

Rabbani Mustafa Khan, organiser, tells us that Haazri is more than just a concert for him. It is his attempt at keeping his father’s love for Hindustani classical music alive. “It is not only a gathering of his students and admirers, but an ongoing commitment to keeping his legacy and love for Hindustani classical music alive,” he notes. To that end, he will be presenting the Padma Vibhushan Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan award to one pioneer of the art form every year. While the previous edition witnessed Pandit Hariprasad Chaurasia being conferred the award, it will be bestowed upon Ustad Zakir Hussain this year at a second event in Sion (passes unavailable) on the following day. This will be followed by a performance by Sonu Nigam, who is one of the late Ustad’s famous disciples. “It is a privilege to see that my father’s students have transcended the boundaries of classical and contemporary music,” the organiser shares.

Rabbani Mustafa Khan

We learn that plans are underway for a new foundation that will promote Hindustani classical music and provide monetary assistance to artistes practicing the art form. “My father would often tell us that being talented and being successful are two different things. Many of today’s artistes are immensely talented but lack support from the community. Ustad Ghulam Mustafa Khan Cultural Foundation will be home to these artistes,” he concludes.

ON Tomorrow; 8.30pm 
AT Dr Kashinath Ghanekar Natyagruha, Manpada, Thane West.
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