Oxford University has named one of its rehearsal rooms after Pakistani singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan that makes him the first South Asian artist to receive such an honour.
In this connection, Oxford University will also arranged a music concert on 25th of next month, wherein the Rahat Fateh Ali Khan will bring magic of traditional qawwali to the stage.
The event is aimed at raising funds for the aforementioned department’s work and will be held in the institute’s Sheldonian Theatre, according to the university’s website.
The Fusion Project – comprising Oxford University’s students – will join Rahat Fateh Ali Khan in the concert to perform original compositions created by its lead singer Rushil Ranjan.
Qawwali, a major part of the subcontinent’s music scene, is known as the rhythm of Muslim Sufi saints. Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, having being mentored by the ‘King of Qawwali’ Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, has made it one of his life goals to spread the genre and Pakistan’s name throughout the world.
Music Faculty Board chairman Professor Michael Burden said, “The music of Rahat Fateh Ali Khan is a force on the international scene, and we are extremely grateful to the student group – The Fusion Project – for involving us in the event.”
Last year, Oxford University honoured Khan with a lifetime achievement award.
