Kokab Rashid: Bringing Versatility and Musical Expression to the Stage
For vocalist Kokab Rashid, the stage is a space where musical training meets expression.
Coming from the Delhi Gharana tradition of Hindustani classical music, Kokab brings a strong classical foundation to his performances while also working across several other forms of music.
His musical education began with his grandfather, Ustad Zafar Ahmed Khan, who introduced him to music during childhood. He subsequently trained under Khalifa Late Ustad Iqbal Ahmed Khan and currently continues his learning under Ustad Fareed Hasan Khan. His father, Ustad Rashid Zafar, has also been an important guide throughout his musical development.
Kokab’s first stage performance took place when he was around six or seven years old. Since then, live performance has remained a significant part of his musical journey.
His repertoire includes Hindustani classical, semi-classical, Sufi and Bollywood music, giving him the opportunity to perform in different settings and connect with different audiences.
At the same time, Kokab has been exploring contemporary approaches to musical presentation. His experiments with modern arrangements and rock versions of popular songs reflect his interest in creating performances that combine familiar musical material with a different sonic approach.
His academic background also contributes to his understanding of 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.
Kokab has performed at several cultural platforms, including the Global Literacy Festival, Jashn-e-Hind, Dilli Durbar, Chand Sangeet Festival and Jashn-E-Tehzeeb. He has also received the CCRT National Scholarship in the classical category and won BIG FM’s Big Golden Voice.
His musical work today combines stage performance with content creation and teaching.
Whether performing a classical composition, a Sufi piece or a contemporary arrangement, Kokab’s approach remains rooted in the musical discipline developed through his classical training. This combination of foundation and flexibility continues to shape his work as a vocalist.
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
