By Ayman Munaf

Suhel Rais Khan, the son of the legendary sitar maestro Ustad Rais Khan, carries a rich musical heritage. Born into a family of extraordinary artists, he has carved out his own unique path in the world of music. Currently visiting Pakistan from India to see his ailing aunt, Suhel was invited to perform—an opportunity that has allowed fans to witness his musical prowess firsthand. During our conversation, he talked about his journey, inspirations, and the evolution of his craft.

Q1. Can you share some of your earliest memories of music and how they influenced your decision to pursue a career in this field?

I grew up in a boarding school called Barnes, one of the top ten British schools in the world. Before that, when I was with my father, I wasn’t interested in classical music at all. Like most people, I was into pop and rock. But when I returned and saw the immense respect my father commanded in the world of Indian classical music, I was drawn to it. It was in my blood, so the transition was natural. The way people revered him inspired me, and once I started exploring classical music. I genuinely fell in love with it.

Q2. Growing up as the son of the legendary sitarist Ustad Rais Khan and the talented dancer Tasneem Khan, how did your parents’ artistic backgrounds shape your musical journey?

My childhood was complex. My parents divorced and my father moved to Pakistan, so I didn’t get a chance to learn directly from him. When I returned from boarding school, I was introduced to my father’s side of the family. My aunt (Bua) was the world’s best Surbahar player. She showed me her work and played my father’s music for me. That’s when I began collecting his tapes.

After nearly 20 years, I finally met my father. Initially, I was reluctant, but after meeting him I felt peace. He heard me sing and encouraged me to play the sitar. My mother, though naturally artistic, didn’t pursue a classical career. But I was fortunate to learn from incredible women like Madhurani Ji, one of the top singers in the world, and Sitara Devi, who taught me dora tukras. In London, I trained under Priya Didi and spent time with senior artists, gathering knowledge from different corners of the classical world.

One thing that needs to be acknowledged is that the song Gungroo Tut Gaye was originally composed and sung by my father, Ustad Rais Khan. Unfortunately, many artists have falsely claimed it as their own composition, which is deeply unfair.

Q3. You completed your formal education at Barnes and were actively involved in music, singing, and drama. How did this academic environment contribute to your artistic development?

Honestly, formal education only provides the basics. The real learning comes from your guru. I initially focused on singing and later realized the importance of playing the sitar. Creating music is expensive—so I opened my own studio, where I learned recording, editing, composing, and arranging. Eventually, I started working on my own albums and recording other artists.

Q4. Can you discuss the significance of your training under your father and how it has influenced your approach to music?

I only had two months of formal training with my father before he passed away. I absorbed whatever I could in that short time. While he profoundly influenced me, I developed my own distinct style. My father trained several successful artists, including Ahmed Jahanzeb.

Q5. Your music blends traditional Indian classical elements with contemporary styles. How do you balance these influences in your compositions and performances?

It all comes down to the sound—what you want to present to the world. My music doesn’t resemble anyone else’s. I usually sing my own compositions, but sometimes when audiences aren’t ready for change, I adapt. There’s nothing wrong with singing another artist’s song, as long as you infuse it with your own style.

Q6. Who are some of the artists, both within and outside the classical genre, that have inspired your work?

Legends like Sonu Nigam, Hariharan, Farida Khanum, Noor Jehan, Salamat Ali Khan, Fateh Ali Khan, Ghulam Ali and Roshan Ara. Music is diverse—everyone has their own preference, and no genre is inherently bad. It’s about what resonates with you.

Q7. Can you walk us through your creative process when composing a new piece?

I can compose very quickly. Give me a line, and I can create a melody in 10 seconds.

Q8. How do you decide when a composition is complete and ready to be shared with the audience?

I know once I hear the lyrics and understand the genre—whether it’s pop, rock or ghazal. I often test compositions by having my students sing them their own way before finalizing the recording. I incorporate elements of ‘80s-style melodies while keeping them accessible to the general audience.

Q9. You’ve performed at various national and international events. Is there a particular performance that stands out in your memory?

My performance in Calcutta is unforgettable. Just as I was about to start, the famous Bengali actress Moon Moon Sen entered in a black saree with a black bindi. I was so mesmerized that I completely forgot my song! I had to stop for five minutes, just looking at her, before she finally said, “Suhel, I’m here. Start your performance.” That moment is etched in my memory.

Q10. How do you prepare for a live performance and connect with your audience?

A successful artist knows how to keep the audience engaged. If I see the crowd isn’t interested in the song, I change the song on the spot. My musicians and I are always ready to improvise.

Q11. What are some significant challenges you’ve faced in your musical career?

I don’t focus on challenges—I focus on my work. I’m Ustad Rais Khan’s son, and my music speaks for itself. I’ve worked with the biggest artists worldwide and have over 40 albums. I don’t compare myself with others; I do what I love. I’m the only sitarist, singer and composer with 600 videos on air, and I’ve even made it to the Guinness Book of Records.

Q12. Receiving the Mitr Pradhan award at 25 was a notable achievement. How did it impact your career?

It was my first award, but it wasn’t heavily promoted. Whatever recognition I’ve earned has been through my own hard work.

Q13. Are there any upcoming projects or collaborations you’re excited about?

I continuously collaborate with artists across genres. Recently, I worked on Fusion for Roland. I believe in supporting talent, even if an artist isn’t famous or wealthy—if they’re good, I’ll work with them. I learn something new every day.

Q14. What are your aspirations for the future, both personally and professionally?

I am content with what I do. I’ll continue making music and exploring new sounds.

Q15. How do you see the role of classical music evolving in the digital age?

Music is evolving, and the key is packaging it correctly. To stay relevant, artists must adapt and present their music in a way that resonates with today’s audience.

Q16. Your younger brother, Farhan Rais Khan, is also a talented sitar player. Do you guide him as an elder brother now that your father is no more?

Farhan has learned from our father and plays better than me. I have my own style and draw inspiration from legends like Ravi Shankar and Vilayat Khan. I’m very close to my brother in ways beyond just music.

By Ayman Munaf

In the world of Pakistani music, where each voice brings its own shade of emotion and storytelling, at just age nineteen Ayat has carved a place for herself as a soulful and introspective artist, blending emotion and depth into every note she sings. Her journey began at the tender age of eight, singing in school tableaux and the audience’s applause sparked her love for music. Her family’s unwavering support and their encouragement nurtured her passion and what started as a child’s love for singing transformed over time into a deep-rooted dedication to her talent. Today, Ayat is known for her private gigs, concerts and studio projects each one a testament to her dedication and talent.

Ayat’s first major breakthrough came a year back with her rendition of ‘Mora Saiyaan’ for the film ‘Teri Meri Kahaniyaan.’ “The film had three different stories, and my song was part of the second one, a story about a singer. Watching that scene on the big screen with my family, knowing it was my voice, was surreal. I felt butterflies in my stomach, and I even teared up out of happiness. It was a moment of pride and emotion,” she recalls. One of her most challenging experiences with ‘Mora Saiyaan,’ was singing in Punjabi as it wasn’t her native tongue. With guidance from her father and music director Jawad Hyder, she overcame the language barrier, mastering the song in just two hours. This accomplishment solidified her belief that with passion and determination, no obstacle is insurmountable. Emotion, she believes, is a critical component in music, especially in songs that accompany powerful narratives. Ayat acknowledges that it’s an ongoing journey of learning, committed to improving at every step. She approaches each project with openness, learning to communicate the right emotions with every performance.

For Ayat, succeeding in Pakistan’s music industry requires more than just vocal talent. Quick memorization and the ability to adapt melodies are qualities she views as essential, and she’s diligently working to hone these skills. Her musical identity, however, is rooted in a more soulful, relaxed style, contrasting with the energetic ‘dhoom-dharaka’ music often popular in the industry. “I resonate most with slower, relaxing music,” she says, emphasizing her love for calm and soothing melodies. As a fan of soulful melodies, she finds inspiration in the unique style of her favourite singer, Sunidhi Chauhan, whose voice she deeply admires. One song holds a special place in her heart—Lae Dooba by Sunidhi Chauhan, which she has re-sung. Ayat admits that she doesn’t always enjoy hearing her recorded voice, a common sentiment among artists, but she accepts it as part of her growth journey.

Criticism, especially in the digital age, is something she navigates with grace. Ayat keeps her focus on positivity, avoiding the distractions of hateful comments that could detract from her growth. In this era of digital transformation, platforms like YouTube have opened up new avenues for artists, and the young singer has embraced this change, recently launching her own channel. She views digital platforms as a bridge, connecting artists directly with their audience and offering invaluable exposure.

Looking ahead, Ayat has set her sights on one of Pakistan’s most celebrated platforms: Coke Studio. Performing there is a dream, a goal she hopes to achieve as she continues to develop her artistry. Behind the scenes, she keeps her voice in top condition with a dedicated regimen of vocal exercises—sargams, paltay, and samraags—practiced diligently each morning and night.

Reflecting on the industry she loves, Ayat expresses a desire to see a more merit-based environment. “I’d want to address nepotism,” she says, advocating for equal opportunities for all artists based on talent alone.

In a landscape rich with evolving sounds and stories, Ayat is a breath of fresh air, a singer with a heartfelt commitment to her craft and a vision for the future. Through each note she brings a touch of soul, creating a unique place for herself in the world of Pakistani music.

• What’s one role that scared you but helped you grow the most?

‘Aakhir Kab Tak’ was the toughest role I’ve played so far, but it helped me grow immensely as an actor.

• If your wardrobe consisted of clothes from one movie, which would it be?

Definitely Emily in Paris!

• What’s your favourite way to unwind after a long day on the sets?

Coming home, giving my son a big tight hug, and playing with him.

• What’s one thing about you that surprises people when they get to know you?

That I’m married and have a child—it’s always a shocker!

• If you could act in any famous movie, which one would you choose?

I’d love to be part of ‘In the Mood for Love.’

• What’s a trait you believe makes someone truly iconic?

Being true to your work, passionate and compassionate.

• Favourite holiday destination?

Turkey, hands down.

• What’s one aspect of acting that people rarely see but means the most to you?

Bringing to life someone else’s character completely different from my own personality.

• Who’s a fictional character you’d love to spend a day with?

Deadpool! Imagine the fun and chaos.

• What’s one song that always makes you feel unstoppable?

“Thunder” by Imagine Dragons.

• If your life was a novel, what would the title be?

‘After a Break.’

• If you could choose any actor to act your life story, who would it be?

Saba Qamar—her role would do justice to my journey!