New Delhi: President Pranab Mukherjee today condoled the passing away of eminent vocalist Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan.
In a message to his daughter, Pammi Khan, the President said, “I am sad to learn about the passing away of your father, Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan.”
“Eminent vocalist Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan, an exponent of the Gwalior gharana, was India’s oldest performing musician. He left an indelible mark in the world of classical music and was known for his deep resonant voice, ability to retain the purity of a raag and innumerable compositions which he created over the decades under the pseudonym ‘Rasan Piya’,” a statement from Rashtrapati Bhavan said.
Khan was bestowed with numerous awards, including Padma Bhushan in 2013 for his contribution to Indian classical music.
“He continued to enthral music lovers across the country till his demise with his marvellous stamina and unparalleled talent. In his death, the nation has lost a doyen of Indian classical music,” it said.