Classical singer enthrals music aficionados at Lok Virsa

Islamabad: Noted classical singer Ustad Ejaz Tawakkal Khan on Wednesday enthralled audience at the National Institute of Folk and Traditional Heritage (Lok Virsa).

Lok Virsa Executive Director Dr Fouzia Saeed, senior officials of Lok Virsa and a large number of music lovers attended the event. Dr Fouzia appreciated the Gwalior Gharana of music, saying that Ustad Ejaz Tawakkal Khan is one of the proud members of Gwalior Gharana.

Ejaz Tawakkal said that it is an honour to be in Lok Virsa for a performance saying that his Gharana was serving the country musical industry since long and proud to represent his Gwalior Gharana this evening. Ustad Ejaz presented famous classical songs and received standing ovation from the audience.

Ustad Ejaz belongs to the Gwalior Gharana of music which is considered one of the oldest ‘khayal gharanas’ and one to which most classical musicians of the sub-continent can trace their origins and style.

It is said that the rise of the Gwalior Gharana dates back to the time of Moghul Emperor Akbar. Ustad Ejaz, who is also a poet drew inspiration from the singing of his grandfather Khan Sahib Tawakkal Hussain Khan and learned classical music from his uncle, Ustad Ashiq Hussain Hashmi.

His father, Ustad Munir Hussain Tawakkal, was also an accomplished vocalist. He lives in Bahawalpur but is always on the move giving performances both in Pakistan and India. He is the recipient of several awards including Faiz Ahmed Faiz Award, Bulekha Award and also the UAE Award.