Ustad Faizan Ali Khan: Upholding a 500-Year Legacy of the Shamchaurasi Gharana

The Shamchaurasi Gharana—one of the subcontinent’s oldest schools of classical music—has carried its tradition across five centuries, passing from ustad to disciple, from father to son. Today, its legacy finds a powerful, youthful voice in Ustad Faizan Ali Khan, grandson of the legendary Ustad Salamat Ali Khan and son of celebrated classical vocalist Ustad Shafqat Ali Khan.

In this conversation, the young vocalist speaks about his illustrious lineage, his journey across global stages, and the honour of being formally addressed as Ustad by the International Lawyers Association (ILA) in London. Excerpts from the interview:

Q: Faizan sahib, your family’s musical heritage spans more than five centuries. How do you describe the weight and beauty of this legacy?

Faizan: The Shamchaurasi Gharana is not just a school of music—it is a living history. For over 500 years, my forefathers preserved a style rooted in purity of raga and emotional depth. Growing up in this environment was a blessing, but also a responsibility. Every note I sing carries the echoes of generations before me. It keeps me grounded and constantly reminds me that my first duty is to honour the tradition I belong to.

Q: Coming from such a distinguished lineage, when did your own musical journey begin?

Faizan: Music surrounded me from childhood. I learned by listening first—listening to my father, my uncles, to old recordings of my grandfather. Slowly, I began formal training, and by the time I was a teenager, I was already performing. The transition to the stage felt natural because I had grown up watching the greats rehearse in my own home.

Q: You perform both in Pakistan and internationally. How has the global audience responded to your style of classical music?

Faizan: Surprisingly warmly. Audiences abroad may not understand every raga, but they feel the emotion. Whether I perform in the UK, Europe, or the Middle East, people connect with sincerity and depth. I’ve also found that many young listeners are discovering classical music through fusion and digital platforms, which is encouraging for our art form.

Q: Your association with the UK-based label Sufi Score has brought your music to a larger audience. One of your singles, Morey Naina, received massive attention. How did that change things for you?

Faizan: Morey Naina was a turning point. It crossed more than two million views in the first week and reached listeners far beyond the South Asian community. The response gave me confidence that classical-inspired music still has a place in modern times. Working with Sufi Score has opened doors to creative expression while keeping my classical foundation intact.

Q: Recently, the International Lawyers Association (ILA) in London honoured you with the title of “Ustad”. How did you feel when you received that recognition?

Faizan: Honestly, I was humbled. I still feel I have a long way to go before truly deserving such a title. But I accepted it with gratitude, as a gesture of respect from an esteemed global community of more than 4,000 members. I am deeply thankful to Barrister Safdar Iqbal, Barrister Syed Affaq Hassan Gilani, Barrister Sajjad Kayani, and Barrister Hafiz Sahib for the honour. Their faith in me is both inspiring and motivating.

Q: How do you balance preserving classical tradition while experimenting with contemporary styles?

Faizan: I see tradition as a foundation, not a limitation. My training guides my discipline, but the world of music today is much broader. When I explore different genres, the essence of classical music stays intact. Innovation is important, but it must never dilute the soul of what we inherited.

Q: What message would you give to young musicians who look up to you or your gharana?

Faizan: Respect your roots—whatever they may be. Learn with patience. Classical music demands time, sincerity, and humility. And most importantly, let your heart lead your voice. When there is honesty in your singing, people will always listen.

A Young Custodian of an Ancient Art

Ustad Faizan Ali Khan stands at an important crossroads: where centuries of classical tradition meet the evolving landscape of modern music. With his powerful voice, disciplined training, and growing global presence, he continues to carry forward the legacy of the Shamchaurasi Gharana—while carving a distinct identity of his own.