Vilayat Khan

Ustad Vilayat Khan, born on August 28, 1928, in the village of Gauripur (present-day Bangladesh), was a titan of Indian classical music, renowned as one of the greatest sitarists of his time. Hailing from a distinguished musical lineage, he was the son of Enayat Khan and elder brother of Imrat Khan, carrying forward the rich legacy of the Imdadkhani gharana. Vilayat Khan's mastery of the sitar was unparalleled, blending profound classicism with semi-classical and folk repertoire, creating a sound that was both deeply traditional and innovatively personal. His playing was not just technically brilliant but also deeply expressive, earning him a place among the most revered musicians of the 20th century. Beyond his musical prowess, Vilayat Khan was also a teacher of meditation and a Sufi mystic, adding layers of spiritual depth to his artistry. His influence extends through generations, with his sons Shujaat Husain Khan and Hidayat Khan continuing his legacy. Vilayat Khan's recordings offer a journey into the soul of Indian classical music, a testament to his enduring genius.