LONDON: Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan and his son, Shahzaman Khan, were formally felicitated at the Houses of Parliament during an event celebrating cultural diplomacy and musical excellence that brought together communities from India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.
The ceremony was organized by British-Asian artist Raja Kaasheff to honor Ustad Rahat and his son in recognition of their enduring musical legacy and contribution to South Asian music.
A major highlight of the event was the official unveiling of the cross-border Bangla duet “Prem Piyasha – Reloaded (Thirst for Love)”, a collaboration spanning UK, Bangladesh, Pakistan and India. The project features Rahat alongside Rubayat Jahan, blending classical Qawwali roots with contemporary romantic expression.
With lyrics by Kabir Bakul, composition and arrangement by Raja Kaasheff and direction by Saikat Reza, the song has been released under Dhruba Music Station, symbolizing a cultural bridge across South Asia and the global diaspora.
The event attracted a distinguished audience including Ruth Cadbury, Ritu Prakash Chhabria, Asif Akbar, Tariq Ahmad, Barrister Farhan Farani, Baroness Uddin, Afzal Khan, Apsana Begum, Vijay Sharma, along with several Lords, MPs and prominent socialites.
Speakers described the collaboration as more than a musical release, calling it a reflection of shared heritage and emotional connection that transcends borders.
Raja Kaasheff said the unveiling in Parliament reinforced the role of music as a unifying force capable of connecting cultures, languages and nations. He said that “Prem Piyasha – Reloaded” is a timeless romantic piece that captures the essence of love beyond geography, adding that Rahat Fateh Ali Khan’s involvement brings people together across divisions.
Lord Tariq Ahmad said Rahat’s contribution to South Asian and global music remains immense. Noting that the legacy of late Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan continues through Rahat and now through Shahzaman Khan, he described the occasion as a moment of pride.
Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan thanked Raja Kaasheff and Rubayat Jahan for their collaboration and praised their artistic contribution. He said that it has always been a pleasure to work with them and described “Prem Piyasha” as a significant musical work.
He also thanked the parliamentarians for honoring him and his son.
Rahat Fateh Ali Khan is currently in London and recently performed to a sold-out audience at the Royal Albert Hall. He is also scheduled to perform at private events this week with his full band.
He said he was humbled to be recognized by British parliamentarians and called it an honor not only for himself but for South Asian music, the tradition of Sufi Qawwali and modern Urdu music.
