Aug 21, 2006

Dear Shri Hussain,

I am deeply grieved to learn of the passing away of your revered father, Ustad Bismillah Khan, this morning.

Ustad Bismillah Khan was a precious national treasure, whose loss the whole nation mourns. His absence leaves a void that is impossible to fill. What gave his music such a sublime quality was his deep spiritualism, evident in every note he played. His music was his offering, from the depth of his heart and soul, to the Almighty, and it touched to the core everyone who heard him play. He gave a soaring new dimension to the shehnai which in his hands became an instrument of extraordinary expressive power.

Ustad Bismillah Khan epitomized the very best of India's composite culture, respecting and honouring every faith in our land. His music transcended all cultural and religious barriers and, indeed, had the power to unite people. It expressed so eloquently, too, his pride and joy in India, which is why his participation was so essential in every important national celebration.

For our family, Ustad Bismillah Khan's death is a personal loss. Our association with him goes back to the time of Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who especially sought him out to perform on India's first Independence Day. Smt Indira Gandhi and Shri Rajiv Gandhi too had the great regard for Ustad Sahib.

At this time of grief, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. May Ustad Sahib's soul rest in peace, and may you and the family find the strength to bear your loss.

With my sincere condolences,

- Sonia Gandhi