Shakir Khan is one of the most promising young exponents of the legendary Etawah Gharana, carrying forward the rich musical heritage of his family with remarkable energy and dedication. As the son and disciple of the renowned sitar maestro Ustad Shahid Parvez Khan, Shakir represents the eighth generation in an unbroken lineage of exceptional musicians, all of whom have devoted themselves to mastering the sitar and surbahar. This illustrious lineage includes his grandfather, Ustad Aziz Khan, and his great-grandfather, the patriarchal surbaharist Ustad Wahid Khan. He is also closely related to the legendary Ustad Vilayat Khan, further solidifying his place within one of the most revered musical traditions in India.
Shakir’s prodigious talent emerged early in life, and he gave his first public performance at the age of eleven. However, natural talent alone is not enough to achieve mastery in the rigorous world of Indian classical music. Under the careful and disciplined guidance of his father, Shakir honed his craft through years of dedicated study, relentless practice (riyaaz), and frequent performances. His hard work and perseverance have paid off, and he has become a shining star in the world of classical music.
In recent years, Shakir has delivered outstanding performances at some of the most prestigious music conferences in India. These include the Dover Lane Music Conference in Kolkata, the Sawai Gandharva Music Festival in Pune, the Saptak Music Festival in Ahmedabad, the Bombay Festival in Mumbai, the Tansen Music Festival in Gwalior, and the Shankarlal Music Festival in Delhi, among many others. His performances have been met with widespread acclaim, showcasing the depth, subtlety, and joy of the Etawah Gharana.
Shakir has also taken his music beyond India, performing extensively across the globe. He has captivated audiences in the United States, Canada, and Europe, spreading the beauty of Indian classical music to new listeners. One of his notable international performances was at the famous Woodstock Festival in Poland in 2008, where he brought the intricacies of the Etawah Gharana to a global stage.
With each performance, Shakir Khan continues to solidify his reputation as a rising star in the world of Indian classical music, ensuring that the legacy of the Etawah Gharana remains vibrant and relevant in the contemporary world. His journey is a testament to the enduring power of tradition, discipline, and the transformative potential of music.