বাংলায় পড়ুন
In a poignant gathering at Rabindra Sadan this Wednesday morning, the melodic voice of maestro Ustad Rashid Khan fell silent forever. The renowned 56-year-old vocalist took his last breath on Tuesday evening at a private hospital in South Kolkata after battling prostate cancer for several years.
Devotees and admirers, in countless numbers, assembled at Rabindra Sadan to pay their final respects to the legendary musician. The West Bengal government, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, expressed its homage by scheduling a gun salute at 1 PM.
The courtyard of Rabindra Sadan has witnessed a sea of enthusiasts since the early hours, with prominent figures like state ministers Arup Biswas and Indranil Sen, distinguished singer Usha Uthup, music director Debojyoti Mishra, and many more gracing the occasion.
The maestro's mortal remains will first be taken to his residence before proceeding to the Tollygunge Cemetery for his last rites. Rashid Khan, who succumbed to a brain stroke on November 21, endured a prolonged hospital stay, grappling with various infections, as revealed by medical professionals.
On Tuesday evening, the hospital reported a significant drop in his blood pressure and that he was unresponsive to medication. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, arriving at the hospital on Tuesday evening, stood by the family, expressing condolences and solidarity.
The musical fraternity and fans mourn the loss of a maestro who not only enchanted with his voice but also faced his health struggles with an unwavering spirit. Ustad Rashid Khan's departure leaves a void in the world of Indian classical music, but his legacy will resonate through the melodies he gifted to generations.
