14 March, 2004


My Dear Fellow Music Lovers,

I am extremely saddened by the great loss we have all suffered 
– the passing away of my uncle, Ustad Vilayat Khansahib. I was 
very fortunate to have been with “Bade Abba” (Ustad Vilayat 
Khansahib) last week at his bedside, but nothing could prepare 
me for the shocking news of his passing away so quickly. My 
father, Ustad Imrat Khansahib, was also in Mumbai last week, 
and, after returning to America, is distressed for the same 
reason. 

Our extended family (my cousins Shujaat Bhai and Hidayat) is in 
close contact, and we are still trying to cope with the loss we 
have all suffered. My brothers Irshad and Wajahat are in Kolkata 
with the entire family. 

My personal loss is not just of an uncle, but that of a guiding 
light and inspiration of sitar and Indian music. I am deeply 
grateful to all of you for your condolences, prayers and 
blessings. 


With my very best regards,

Nishat Khan