Rafique Khan

Ustad Rafique Khan is an acclaimed sitar maestro of the Dharwad Gharana, a lineage of India’s most distinguished musical lineages. He is the grandson of the legendary Sitar Ratna Ustad Rahimat Khan, whose innovations helped shape the modern sitar, and the son of the respected Ustad Abdul Karim Khan. Trained from the age of nine within this illustrious family, Rafique Khan absorbed both the Gayaki-Ang (vocal style) and Tantakari-Ang (instrumental style) traditions of sitar playing.

His performances are known for their depth, melodic purity, and balanced blend of lyrical expression and technical mastery. Over the years, he has performed extensively across India and internationally, featuring in major classical festivals and collaborative concerts. His jugalbandhis, including those with his twin brother, are admired for their synchronised artistry and creative dialogue.

Based in Mangalore, he is associated with All India Radio. He leads music-education initiatives through the Sangeet Bharati Foundation, continuing the family’s legacy of nurturing the next generation of musicians.