Ustad Nathoo Khan

Ustad Nathoo Khan (1920–1971) was a renowned sarangi player of the Indian subcontinent, known for his exceptional skill and contribution to Hindustani classical music. He was born in Amritsar, Punjab, during British India, and later became one of the most respected sarangi musicians of his time. His work helped elevate the status of the sarangi as a solo instrument. 

Nathoo Khan came from a musical family; his father, Baba Balle, was a tabla player, which influenced his early training in music. He received guidance from several prominent teachers, including Ustad Ahmadi Khan, Ustad Allah Diya, and Bhai Lal Muhammad. His uncle Feroze Din also played an important role in teaching him sarangi. His early performances included playing Raag Shudh Sarang at Kaliyar Sharif, which marked the beginning of his musical journey. 

After the partition of India in 1947, he migrated to Pakistan, where he became associated with Radio Pakistan in Karachi as a staff artist. He also worked with Pakistan Television Corporation and contributed music to radio programs and films. Nathoo Khan played an important role in popularizing classical music through broadcast media and reached a wide audience. 

He was highly respected as an accompanist and performed with many legendary vocalists such as Ustad Ashiq Ali Khan, Bade Ghulam Ali Khan, and Roshan Ara Begum. Many musicians praised his accompaniment, and he was considered one of the finest sarangi players of his era. He also guided younger artists, including playback singer Ahmed Rushdi during his early training years. 

Ustad Nathoo Khan passed away in 1971 in Munich, Germany, during a European tour after a short illness. In recognition of his contribution to music, he was posthumously awarded the Pride of Performance by the Government of Pakistan in 2016. His legacy continues to influence sarangi players and classical musicians today.