Zila Khan is a distinguished Indian vocalist celebrated for her profound contributions to Sufi music and Hindustani classical traditions. As a member of the illustrious Imdadkhani gharana, a musical dynasty spanning seven generations, she is a trailblazer, being the first woman in her family’s lineage to perform publicly. The daughter of legendary sitar maestro Ustad Vilayat Khan, she was immersed in music from birth and underwent exceptionally rigorous training under her father, often practising for up to sixteen hours a day.
Khan’s artistic prowess is marked by remarkable versatility. Her repertoire extends beyond classical and semi-classical forms to include folk, Bhakti Sangeet, and innovative fusion genres. She has captivated audiences at major music festivals across India, Europe, and the United States, demonstrating command over diverse styles and singing in eight different languages. A pioneer in fusion music, she was the first artist to present a Sufi-Jazz concert at India’s prestigious Jazz Utsav Festival. With her son, Faizan Shaikh Khan, she co-founded The Fez Project, an initiative that blends classical and Sufi music with contemporary electronic and acoustic elements to connect with younger audiences.
Beyond the concert stage, Khan has made her mark as a composer, music director, and actress. She has composed music for films and advertisements and has lent her voice as a playback singer in Bollywood. Her acting credits include a role in the critically acclaimed film Bajirao Mastani and performances in theatrical productions, where she showcased her ability to traverse multiple musical genres within a single performance.
As a leading proponent of Sufi music, Khan has elevated its global profile. She performs traditional forms such as qauland qalbana, drawing inspiration from the profound poetry of Sufi mystics like Rumi, Bulleh Shah, and Amir Khusrau. Her album dedicated to the female Sufi saint Hazrat Rabia Basri was a groundbreaking work that highlighted the significant, yet often overlooked, role of women in Sufism.
Zila Khan’s impact extends into philanthropy and social advocacy. In 2008, she founded the Ustadgah Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to mentoring and supporting underprivileged children with musical talent, thereby preserving India’s rich artistic heritage. A passionate advocate for gender equality, she introduced the title “UstadMa” to formally recognise the achievements of female artists on par with their male counterparts, “Ustad” or “Pandit.” Furthermore, she has established India’s first music therapy wing in a major hospital, researching the therapeutic benefits of music on health.
Her extensive contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Prime Minister’s Roll of Honour and the Ghalib Award. Through her multifaceted career as a performer, composer, social advocate, and cultural preservationist, Zila Khan has forged an enduring legacy that bridges ancient traditions with contemporary relevance.