Kokab Rashid: A Classically Trained Versatile Vocalist from Delhi
Delhi’s musical landscape has always been closely connected with the rich traditions of Hindustani classical music. Emerging from this cultural environment is vocalist Kokab Rashid, a classically trained singer whose musical journey brings together traditional training, live performance and a diverse interest in different forms of music.
Belonging to the Delhi Gharana of Hindustani Classical Music, Kokab Rashid began learning music at a very young age. His first musical teacher was his grandfather, Ustad Zafar Ahmed Khan, a sitar player associated with the Delhi Gharana. His early exposure to the tradition laid the foundation for his understanding of melody, rhythm and musical discipline.
Over the years, Kokab continued his training under Khalifa Late Ustad Iqbal Ahmed Khan and is currently learning from Ustad Fareed Hasan Khan. Alongside his formal training under his gurus, he has also received continuous musical guidance from his father, Ustad Rashid Zafar, since childhood.
His relationship with music has extended beyond traditional classroom learning. Kokab gave his first stage performance at around six or seven years of age and has since performed at cultural festivals, institutional programmes and different musical platforms.
His academic journey has also remained closely connected with music. He completed his B.A. in Music (Vocal) from Hindu College, University of Delhi, followed by an M.A. in Music (Vocal) from the Faculty of Music and Fine Arts, University of Delhi. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Music from the Faculty of Music and Fine Arts, University of Delhi.
While classical music remains at the centre of his training, Kokab has developed a versatile performance repertoire that includes semi-classical, Sufi and Bollywood music, among other forms. His approach is to carry the discipline and musical understanding of classical training into different performance settings.
His achievements include being a CCRT National Scholarship Holder in the classical category and winning BIG FM’s Big Golden Voice. He has also performed at platforms and cultural events including the Global Literacy Festival, Jashn-e-Hind, Dilli Durbar, Chand Sangeet Festival and Jashn-E-Tehzeeb.
Today, Kokab Rashid continues to balance performance, teaching and academic research. His journey reflects a musician who remains connected to his traditional roots while exploring the wider possibilities of being a vocalist in today’s musical environment.
Follow Kokab Rashid
For more updates, performances, and musical content, follow Kokab Rashid on social media:
Instagram: @krvocal_ on Instagram
Facebook: Kokab Rashid on Facebook
