Ustad Amjad Ali Khan & Sons

It was a pleasure interviewing the legendary Sarod player Ustad Amjad Ali Khan on his entire journey, what he thinks about the current industry, how he picked up Sarod first and much more. We also had a very interesting conversation with Ayaan and Amaan on their work currently.

USTAD AMJAD ALI KHAN

Could you tell us a little history about how you picked up the Sarod?

I cannot remember a particular day that I was initiated into the world of music. It was a part of me from as early as I can remember. Indeed, I cannot think of a moment when music has been separated from my life. For my father Haafiz Ali Khan, though, there was no question of a life outside music. Life itself was music and Music was Life. And so I came to inherit from him the legacy of five generations of musicians as naturally as a bird taking to the air. Music is the greatest wealth that I inherited from my forefathers. Music is a precious gift of God. Research on this subject has shown that listening to appealing music allows plants to grow faster, cattle give more milk and today the medical world is using music as therapy. Certain ragas take care of certain ailments. In my life and journey from the age of 6, I experienced the ecstasy, peace, tranquilly, harmony, satisfaction and joy though various melodies and rhythm and ragas. The reactions of music kept changing according to my age and experience. Our musical seven notes are closely connected with our important cells of the mind and appealing music becomes the therapy for the musicians and the listeners.

You have been playing for the last 60 plus years. How have you adapted to the change in the music scene year after year for the last 6 decades?