The Delhi Gharana forms an important part of vocalist Kokab Rashid’s musical identity.
His connection with the tradition began within his own family. His grandfather, Ustad Zafar Ahmed Khan, a sitar player associated with the Delhi Gharana, was his first teacher and introduced him to music during childhood.
Kokab’s classical training subsequently continued under Khalifa Late Ustad Iqbal Ahmed Khan, and he is currently learning from Ustad Fareed Hasan Khan. His father, Ustad Rashid Zafar, has also remained a continuous source of musical guidance since his childhood.
This lineage has given classical music a central position in Kokab’s approach to singing. However, his musical work today extends beyond traditional concert formats.
As a vocalist, he performs classical, semi-classical, Sufi and Bollywood music, while also experimenting with contemporary arrangements and musical content.
His formal education has further strengthened his engagement with music. He completed his B.A. in Music (Vocal) from Hindu College, University of Delhi, and his M.A. in Music (Vocal) from the Faculty of Music and Fine Arts, University of Delhi. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Music from the Faculty of Music and Fine Arts, University of Delhi.
An important part of his current work is teaching. Kokab Rashid is currently associated with Melody Muse Academy as a Vocal Teacher, where he works with students and helps them develop their vocal and musical foundations.
His approach to teaching is closely connected with his own journey. He believes that a student can explore different musical interests while still benefiting from the discipline and fundamentals of classical training.
His achievements include receiving the CCRT National Scholarship in the classical category and winning BIG FM’s Big Golden Voice. He has also performed at platforms such as the Global Literacy Festival, Jashn-e-Hind, Dilli Durbar, Chand Sangeet Festival and Jashn-E-Tehzeeb.
For Kokab Rashid, carrying forward a musical tradition does not necessarily mean limiting oneself to one form of music. His work demonstrates how a classical foundation can remain central while a vocalist engages with different genres, audiences and contemporary musical formats.
Follow Kokab Rashid
For more updates, performances, and musical content, follow Kokab Rashid on social media:
Instagram: @krvocal_ on Instagram
Facebook: Kokab Rashid on Facebook
