in honor of Swara Samrat Maestro Ali Akbar Khan - April 14, 1922 – June 18, 2009

Our most beloved Khansahib passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family on Thursday evening.
Khansahib had been a dialysis patient since 2004, and had been enduring numerous health issues ever since.
The great Maestro had continued his music teachings publically at the Ali Akbar College
until just weeks ago, and continued to teach music at home until the day he died.

We all are here in this world for some higher purpose, but how many of us are aware of it? Very few.

Khan Sahib knew the day he came to this universe that he has to do lots of selfless service, and he did it till last day of his precious life. His happiness was in giving and giving all of the time. No one was deprived even when they had no means.

What can i say about his music? No words will do justice to his immortal, moving, full of feelings music.
Listening him play was an experience which many of us lucky ones had and will cherish our whole life.

Kabir was a mystic poet around 1400.

Great sage Ramana Maharshi wrote,

The Guru is both “external” and “internal”. From the “Exterior” he gives a push to the mind to turn inward: from the “interior” he pulls the mind toward the Self and helps in the quieting of the mind. That is Guru’s grace. There is no difference between God, Guru and the Self.

- G.S. Sachdev
Spoken at Khansahib's memorial service and burial on the Summer Solstice - June 21, 2009

Links: An Appreciation . AACM . Washington Post . SF Chronicle . LA Times . 80th Birthday Celebration 2002