Amir Khan

Amir Khan first saw the light of day in April 1912 inside Kalanaur. He would eventually rank among the era’s most revered and impactful Hindustani classical vocalists. Initial instruction came from his father Shahmir Khan, after which he absorbed an array of vocal approaches drawn from multiple gharanas. Slow-tempo vilambit compositions formed the core of his artistry. Khyal held particular appeal for him, and this affinity yielded performances marked by exceptional emotional resonance and refined craftsmanship.

A car accident on 14 February 1974 ended his life. Although acclaim for performers frequently intensifies posthumously, Amir Khan’s recorded voice confirms that the esteem he enjoyed rested on genuine achievement. In the manner of Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, his standing has kept expanding, securing his place among the acknowledged masters of Hindustani music. Ragamala (Classical Vocal Compilation), Vol. 1 remains especially rewarding for the singular interpretation it preserves of “Raga Marwa.”