Ustad Rais Khan, who makes his home in Karachi, Pakistan, is one of the most gifted South Asian musicians of our times.

The magical sound of sitar in his hands has enthralled audiences and made him fans all over the world.

Born in 1939, Ustad Rais Khan descends directly from the court musicians of the Muslim Mughal emperors of South Asia, going back to the 15th century AD. He belongs to the Mewaat Gharana (School), which is famous for its "ang"(style of playing): the "guyki" ang. The tonal expressions in this style make the sitar "sing".

Ustad Rais Khan is also an accomplished singer. Sometimes, at the end of a performance, he sings a composition and to the delight of his audience plays it on the sitar. There are very few musicians who can give such compelling demonstration of how closely vocal and instrumental music is linked.

His father Ustad Mohammad Khan started his son's training at the age of two and a half. Being a child prodigy, he gave his first public performance at the age of five. Since then he has never looked back. He has toured extensively all over the world delighting packed audiences of thousands.

Rais Khan has a compelling presence and develops a spontaneous link with all that have the pleasure of listening to him live.

Farhan Khan: Born in January 1981, the young Farhan Khan is already one of the most stylish and accomplished sitar players of his generation. His father Ustad Rais Khan has trained him, both in sitar and surbahar or bass sitar.

Farhan Khan gave his first performance, to rave reviews, at the age of ten. Since then he has accompanied his father throughout the world and amazed listeners with his virtuosity. MPA VIRSA RECORDS

- Ishrat Ansari