Hindustani vocalist Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan during the Spicmacay convention. Picture by Badrikanath Das

Cuttack, May 25: Even at 105, Ustad Abdul Rashid Khan weaved magic with his soul-stirring bandish during the national convention of Spicmacay at the Heritage Hall of Ravenshaw University here.

Defying age, this noted Hindustani classical music exponent of Gwalior gharana, won the hearts of numerous music connoisseurs. Khan is popular for his khayal, dhrupad, dhamaar, tirvat and thumri performances.

Today, he interacted with students and other singers during an ‘intensive programme’ organised by Spicmacay. The maestro offered several tips on a number of ragas and on tarana, alankar and some aspects of khayal singing. The programme started with a song, Chora chori ghar aye piharwa, which was followed by Gor barnan chanchal nayan based on raga Khamaj. However, it was the thumri performance on Mora suna sihrawa that set the tone for a perfect start even as the participants joined in the singing with the maestro.

“It is a great opportunity to learn music from a legend with a magical voice,” said Sujeet Choudhary, a participant from Patna.

The maestro feels that Indian classical music is on a “revival” mode as lot of youngsters are showing inclination towards old and classical forms of music that relaxes the soul. “There is no question of Indian classical music losing its popularity. Although there was a time when concerns about western influence were being expressed, we have overcome that phase and, these days, Indian classical music is being revived,” Khan said.

“At present, classical music is being taught and promoted through various schools and colleges. But still, a lot more needs to be done to preserve it,” said Khan.

“There is a saying that every drop of water makes an ocean, the same way a singer has to keep on practicing to achieve excellence,” he added.

The noted classical singer believes that classical music formed the foundation of old Hindi film songs. “There is still the guru-shishya parampara (tradition) where many artists like us train the younger generation,” he said.

Asked about what motivates him to perform even at this age, Khan responded: “It is only the blessing of god that I am still able to perform. At this age, there is no need for riyaaz and it is only experience that counts for any singer.”