Ustad Shujaat Husain Khan: ‘Playing sitar is not only my source of livelihood but also my greatest passion’

His musical pedigree extends seven generations as he is the son and disciple of the great sitarist Ustad Vilayat Khan. “I wanted to carry forward the musical legacy of my family by playing the sitar,” he tells indianexpress.com.

One of the most pivotal influences in his life has been his father, whom he considered to be an inspiration. “He was my mentor and helped me foster my musical pursuits,” says Ustad Shujaat Husain Khan.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Banyan Tree Events India Pvt Ltd (@banyan_tree_events) 

His most recent musical ‘Dastak-E-Dil’ in collaboration with Gunjan Foundation is an experiential musical evening with an aim to “evoke the spirit of music” in people. Talking about the concert, Ustad Shujaat Husain Khan says that every performance for him is like a newborn, in which he attempts to exhibit every note precisely. “I imagine that the listeners will bask in relaxation as the song reaches their ears,” he says.

According to him, classical music has not been modernised but channelled differently. “Classical music evolves with every generation as everyone has a different presentation within the same boundaries. People now have the option to listen to many great masters and have a wider exposure,” he says.

Reminiscing about the most memorable moments in his career, he says that visiting many picturesque locations and performing for large crowds have always been a pleasure. “A chance to present my music worldwide and the audience’s response truly overwhelms me,” he says, adding that working alongside the greatest musicians in the entertainment industry, such as Asha Bhosle, R D Burman, and Kishore Kumar, has been a blessing for him.

His approach to his craft is still the same, he says. “Sitar playing is not only my source of livelihood, but my greatest passion as well. I work on the matter with extreme diligence and seriousness,” he adds.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Rekhta (@rekhta_foundation) 

Asked what advice he has for younger musicians embarking on this journey, the 63-year-old maestro says the new generation is “quite smarter and more intelligent than us”.

“They are aware of the hard work needed and the commitment required. If one believes they can master their craft in a year or less and approaches it accordingly, they are on the incorrect path. To excel in the musical fraternity, one must devote hours, months, and even years… To improve one’s craft, one needs to have patience and faith. Enjoy the journey and process that will allow you to adapt over time,” he says.

Dastak-E-Dil will take place at Kamani Auditorium, New Delhi on August 18, 2023, 6:30 pm onwards.

📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don’t miss out on the latest updates!